When it comes to purchasing a property in the UK, understanding the intricacies of different house types is crucial. One such unique property type is the Blackburn house. Designed by J Blackburn and constructed in 1946, this property type is a rare find with only two ever built. This article delves into the essential aspects of the Blackburn house, providing a detailed overview for potential buyers and investors. From its construction characteristics to typical hazards and inspection tips, this guide aims to equip you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Historical Context and Manufacturing Details

The Blackburn house was designed by J Blackburn and constructed in the immediate post-war period of 1946. This era saw a significant demand for housing, leading to various innovative construction methods. The Blackburn house stands out due to its unique design and limited production, with only two units ever built. These properties are typically found in areas that experienced rapid development during the post-war housing boom.

Manufacturers and Designers

The Blackburn house was a collaborative effort between J Blackburn, the designer, and the manufacturers who brought the design to life. The construction was part of a broader initiative to address the housing shortage in the UK following World War II. The limited number of units built suggests that the Blackburn house was likely a prototype or an experimental design, which did not see mass production.

Typical Characteristics

The Blackburn house is a two-storey semi-detached property with several distinctive features. These include a flat roof covered with asphalt, external walls made of cement painted PC (precast concrete) slabs, and a panel of glass blocks alongside the front door. These characteristics make the Blackburn house easily identifiable and unique among other post-war properties.

Construction Details

Understanding the construction details of the Blackburn house is essential for potential buyers and investors. This section provides a comprehensive overview of the various construction elements, including the roof, walls, floors, and main frame.

Roof

The roof of the Blackburn house is flat and covered with asphalt. This type of roofing was common in post-war constructions due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. However, flat roofs can be prone to water pooling and leaks if not properly maintained.

Walls

The external walls of the Blackburn house are constructed from cement painted twin leaf PC slabs. These slabs are 3’0″ x 1’6″ x 4″ thick and are held together at every course with through-the-wall 9″ wide 4″ thick PC slabs. This forms a discontinuous 12″ wall with a 4″ cavity filled with thermal insulation. The use of precast concrete slabs was a popular choice in post-war construction due to its durability and quick assembly.

Floors

The ground floor consists of a 3″ wire reinforced screed on hollow core PC slabs, supported by dwarf sleeper walls on a concrete slab. The first floor features a similar construction with a 3″ wire reinforced screed on PC T-beams, which bear directly on the PC slabs within the wall thickness. This construction method provides a robust and stable flooring system.

Main Frame

The main frame of the Blackburn house is constructed from precast concrete T-beams, which bear directly on the PC slabs within the wall thickness. This provides a strong and durable structural framework for the property.

Typical Hazards and Risks

While the Blackburn house boasts several unique features, it is essential to be aware of the typical hazards and risks associated with this property type. Understanding these risks can help potential buyers and investors make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.

Corrosion of Steel in Concrete

One of the primary concerns with the Blackburn house is the potential for corrosion of steel reinforcement within the concrete. This can lead to structural weaknesses and potential safety hazards. It is crucial to inspect the property for signs of corrosion and take appropriate measures to address any issues.

Water Ingress and Dampness

The flat roof design of the Blackburn house can be prone to water ingress and dampness if not properly maintained. Regular inspections and maintenance of the roof are essential to prevent water-related issues. Additionally, the external walls should be checked for any signs of dampness or water penetration.

Thermal Insulation

While the Blackburn house features a 4″ cavity filled with thermal insulation, it is essential to ensure that the insulation is still effective. Over time, insulation materials can degrade, leading to reduced energy efficiency and increased heating costs. Inspecting and upgrading the insulation, if necessary, can help improve the property’s energy performance.

Defective Premises Act

The Defective Premises Act 1972 imposes a duty on builders, developers, and landlords to ensure that properties are constructed and maintained to a reasonable standard. While the Blackburn house is not explicitly listed as defective under this act, it is essential to be aware of potential issues and take necessary precautions to ensure the property meets modern standards.

Inspection and Assessment Tips

For potential buyers and investors, conducting a thorough inspection of the Blackburn house is crucial. This section provides useful tips and guidance on what to look for during the inspection process.

Roof Inspection

• Check for Water Pooling: Inspect the flat roof for any signs of water pooling, which can indicate drainage issues.
• Look for Leaks: Examine the roof for any signs of leaks or water ingress, particularly around joints and edges.
• Assess the Asphalt: Ensure that the asphalt covering is in good condition and free from cracks or damage.

Wall Inspection

• Inspect for Cracks: Check the external walls for any cracks or signs of movement, which can indicate structural issues.
• Check for Dampness: Look for any signs of dampness or water penetration on the external walls.
• Assess the Insulation: Ensure that the thermal insulation within the cavity is still effective and has not degraded over time.

Floor Inspection

• Check for Unevenness: Inspect the floors for any signs of unevenness or movement, which can indicate structural issues.
• Look for Dampness: Examine the ground floor for any signs of dampness or water ingress.
• Assess the Screed: Ensure that the wire reinforced screed is in good condition and free from cracks or damage.

Main Frame Inspection

• Inspect for Corrosion: Check the precast concrete T-beams for any signs of corrosion or damage.
• Assess the Structural Integrity: Ensure that the main frame is in good condition and free from any structural weaknesses.

Typical Defects and Maintenance Tips

Understanding the typical defects associated with the Blackburn house can help potential buyers and investors take necessary precautions and plan for maintenance. This section provides an overview of common defects and maintenance tips for the Blackburn house.

Common Defects

• Corrosion of Steel Reinforcement: As mentioned earlier, corrosion of steel reinforcement within the concrete can be a significant issue. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to address any signs of corrosion.
• Water Ingress and Dampness: The flat roof design can be prone to water ingress and dampness. Regular maintenance of the roof and external walls is crucial to prevent water-related issues.
• Degraded Insulation: Over time, the thermal insulation within the cavity can degrade, leading to reduced energy efficiency. Inspecting and upgrading the insulation, if necessary, can help improve the property’s energy performance.

Maintenance Tips

• Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the roof, walls, floors, and main frame to identify and address any issues promptly.
• Roof Maintenance: Ensure that the flat roof is properly maintained and free from water pooling or leaks. Consider applying a waterproof coating to enhance the roof’s durability.
• Wall Maintenance: Check the external walls for any signs of cracks or dampness and address any issues promptly. Consider applying a weatherproof coating to protect the walls from water penetration.
• Insulation Upgrades: Inspect the thermal insulation within the cavity and upgrade it if necessary to improve the property’s energy performance.

Conclusion

The Blackburn house is a unique and rare property type with several distinctive features. Designed by J Blackburn and constructed in 1946, this two-storey semi-detached house boasts a flat roof covered with asphalt, external walls made of cement painted PC slabs, and a panel of glass blocks alongside the front door. While the Blackburn house offers several advantages, it is essential to be aware of potential hazards and risks, including corrosion of steel reinforcement, water ingress, and degraded insulation.

Conducting a thorough inspection and regular maintenance are crucial to ensuring the property’s longevity and safety. By understanding the typical defects and taking necessary precautions, potential buyers and investors can make informed decisions and safeguard their investment.

At Flettons, we’re committed to safeguarding your investment. When considering a property purchase, trust our seasoned expertise to reveal any hidden threats. For a thorough building survey, get your instant quote through our quote calculator or reach out directly at 0203 691 0451. Your home’s safety is our top priority.

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