Structural Survey

Hilary Davies; Graham Wilmshurst

1994 Structural Survey

doi: 10.1108/02630809410049086

Surveyors, who may be involved in specifying retro‐fitted cavity insulation, need to know the key factors which influence the potential risk of rain penetration. Proposes guidance for surveyors to undertake a low‐cost initial visual survey and desk study as a first stage in the assessment of a dwelling′s suitability for retro‐fitted cavity insulation. A case‐study of low‐rise housing on a local authority estate on the south coast of England, which has retro‐fitted cavity insulation, allowed the identification of these key factors and testing of their statistical significance. Factors identified are aspect towards prevailing wind and driving rain index; exposure (related to local topographic and sheltering features); wall impermeability; and any factors of particular significance to the site. If an individual dwelling has a combination of these factors, it is likely to have a 60 per cent increased risk of rain penetration.

D. Wilkin; R. Baggott

1994 Structural Survey

doi: 10.1108/02630809410049121

While the tendency for clay to shrink in dry weather and to damage buildings has been known for more than a century, the post‐war work of the Building Research Establishment and recent availability of insurance funds to pay for rectification of subsidence damage have led to a focus on this aspect of building failure, where millions of pounds are spent annually. At some point in each case a decision is made as to whether underpinning is required or not. Reports results of a survey of the technical factors which engineers consider when making a decision of whether to recommend underpinning. Analysis of the data indicated that only one factor, the quantity of damage, significantly influenced the under‐pinning decision.

Michael J. Osborn

1994 Structural Survey

doi: 10.1108/02630809410049130

Draws attention to the poisonous effects of lead and details the legislation which protects those who work in industries which use lead in their processes and manufactures. Gives particular consideration to lead in paint, especially to be found in houses built pre‐1965, and the inherent dangers in the removal of such paint to contractors, DIY enthusiasts and the occupants, especially children, who are more susceptible to lead absorption. Provides details of preventive measures, and concludes that surveyors have a responsibility to warn of the dangers of lead in property and to test for its presence in paint and water supplies.

Andrew Eastwell

1994 Structural Survey

doi: 10.1108/02630809410049095

Outlines the structure and working arrangements of the Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA) and gives examples of projects using its £1.2 million research programme. Emphasizes the wide spectrum of construction industry membership and how this can greatly enhance the value of research for the industry.

P.G. Swallow

1994 Structural Survey

doi: 10.1108/02630809410049103

Traces the history of the use of ceramics in the decoration of buildings. Provides definitions of the various types of ceramic used in buildings construction; and their derivation. Follows the use of terracotta and other glazed architectural ceramics in Britain, from Roman times to the present; from the height of usage in buildings in the nineteenth century through to decline in the early twentieth century as tastes changed and in reaction to former highly decorated styles. Now only two manufacturers survive in the UK which produce a full range of terracotta products.

Bryan Bowley

1994 Structural Survey

doi: 10.1108/02630809410049112

Encourages the saving of distressed stucco and fibrous plaster ceilings of merit and shows that repairs are able to be carried out in nearly all cases by use of traditional materials, all of which are available in one form or another. These ceilings are able to be reinstated/ conserved using plaster firms and conservationists, with specialist advice available supported by many years of experience. Such ceilings are to be found throughout the UK, ranging from small residences to theatres, historic houses and palaces. It is indicated that repair of the ceilings must be carried out as soon as possible by the use of qualified artisans and conservators using methods, some being described, with emphasis on calling in experts at an early stage.

Rob Pickard

1994 Structural Survey

doi: 10.1108/02630809410050138

Explains why the safety measures in England and Ireland have been unsuitable for application to historic buildings and points out that the protection of property has rarely been considered. Details how inflexible the fire safety legislation and regulations have been. The conflict between officers dealing with planning conservation and building control officers led to a review of regulations. Outlines these reviews, and the flexibility and changes which were brought about with the introduction of the new 1991 Building Regulations. Discusses the new approach to fire safety in historic buildings and the results it has achieved, for example, recognition of smoke damage and detection systems.

John Hodgson

1994 Structural Survey

doi: 10.1108/EUM0000000003964

Examines the circumstances under which damages may be recovered, the various types of damages, and sets out the basis of calculating damages. Concludes with a reference to the case of Cambridge Water Co. v. Eastern Countries Leather plc in relation to damages.