Overview of the Kincorth MK III House

The Kincorth MK III house, a product of the 1960s, stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of post-war Britain. Designed by T Harley Haddow & Partners and manufactured by Alexander Hall & Son Ltd, this property type is a notable example of system-built housing. With approximately 400 units constructed, these homes are primarily found in Scotland and are known for their distinctive architectural features and construction methods.

Historical Context and Manufacturing Details

Period and Location

The Kincorth MK III houses were built during the 1960s, a period marked by a significant housing shortage in the UK. This era saw a surge in the construction of system-built homes, which were designed to be quickly assembled and cost-effective. The Kincorth MK III houses are predominantly located in Scotland, particularly in areas that required rapid housing development.

Manufacturers and Designers

The Kincorth MK III houses were manufactured by Alexander Hall & Son Ltd, a company known for its expertise in producing prefabricated building components. The design was spearheaded by T Harley Haddow & Partners, a firm that played a crucial role in the development of system-built housing during this period. Their collaboration resulted in a property type that combined efficiency with durability.

Architectural Characteristics

Identification Characteristics

The Kincorth MK III houses are easily identifiable by their unique architectural features. They come in two main forms: bungalows and two-storey terraced houses. Here are some key characteristics:

• Roof: Medium pitch gable roof covered with tiles.
• External Walls: Front and rear external walls consist of storey-height precast concrete (PC) panels infilled with timber boarding.
• Gable Wall: Decorative facing brick or stone, with the gable apex made of sheets or vertical timber boarding.
• Horizontal Band: Some houses feature a horizontal band of tiles at the first-floor level.
• Sill Units: PC ground level sill units.

Construction Details

The construction of the Kincorth MK III houses involves several key components:

• Substructure: Concrete strip footings, brick or PC underbuilding, PC sill units, and a concrete slab with a damp-proof course (DPC).
• External Walls: Storey-height 3′ PC panels, timber frame panels clad with timber boarding, and lined with plasterboard. Insulation is placed between frame studs.
• Gable Wall: Decorative facing brick or artificial stone, with a 1″ cavity, polythene-coated Kraft paper, 1″ polystyrene insulation, and storey-height 4″ PC panels.
• Separating Wall: Storey-height 7″ PC panels.
• Partitions: Timber stud lined with plasterboard.
• Floors: Ground floor consists of chipboard on timber battens on concrete, while the first floor features timber boarding on timber joists.
• Ceilings: Plasterboard.
• Roof: Trussed rafters and tiles.

Typical Hazards and Risks

Structural Concerns

One of the primary concerns with the Kincorth MK III houses is the potential for structural issues, particularly related to the durability of the reinforced concrete components. Over time, these elements can suffer from corrosion, which may compromise the structural integrity of the property.

Insulation and Dampness

The insulation used in these houses, typically polystyrene, may not meet modern standards. Additionally, the presence of a 1″ cavity in the gable wall can lead to issues with dampness if not properly maintained. The damp-proof course (DPC) is crucial in preventing moisture ingress, but if it fails, it can result in significant damp problems.

Fire Safety

The use of timber boarding in the construction of external walls and partitions raises concerns about fire safety. While these materials were common in the 1960s, they may not provide the same level of fire resistance as modern building materials.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

The Kincorth MK III houses are not classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act. However, this does not mean they are free from issues. It is essential for potential buyers and investors to conduct thorough inspections to identify any potential problems and ensure the property meets current building standards.

Inspection Guide for Surveyors

Preliminary Assessment

When inspecting a Kincorth MK III house, it is essential to start with a preliminary assessment. This involves a visual inspection of the exterior and interior of the property to identify any obvious signs of damage or deterioration.

Structural Inspection

A detailed structural inspection should focus on the following areas:

• Concrete Components: Check for signs of corrosion in the reinforced concrete elements. This can include rust stains, cracking, or spalling.
• Timber Elements: Inspect the timber boarding and frame for signs of rot, insect infestation, or other damage.
• Roof: Examine the roof tiles and trussed rafters for any signs of damage or wear.

Insulation and Dampness

Inspect the insulation in the walls and roof to ensure it is in good condition and meets current standards. Check for any signs of dampness, particularly in the gable wall cavity and around the DPC.

Fire Safety

Assess the fire safety of the property by examining the materials used in the construction of external walls and partitions. Ensure that there are adequate fire safety measures in place, such as smoke alarms and fire doors.

Typical Defects and Maintenance Tips

Common Defects

The Kincorth MK III houses are prone to several common defects, including:

• Concrete Corrosion: As mentioned earlier, the reinforced concrete components can suffer from corrosion over time. This can lead to cracking, spalling, and a loss of structural integrity.
• Timber Rot: The timber boarding and frame can be susceptible to rot, particularly if exposed to moisture. This can weaken the structure and lead to further issues.
• Dampness: The presence of a 1″ cavity in the gable wall can lead to damp problems if not properly maintained. This can result in mould growth and damage to the interior finishes.
• Insulation Issues: The polystyrene insulation used in these houses may not meet modern standards and can degrade over time, reducing its effectiveness.

Maintenance Tips

To maintain a Kincorth MK III house in good condition, consider the following tips:

• Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the property to identify any potential issues early. This can help prevent minor problems from becoming major concerns.
• Concrete Repairs: If you notice any signs of concrete corrosion, it is essential to address them promptly. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged sections to maintain the structural integrity of the property.
• Timber Treatment: Treat the timber elements with appropriate preservatives to protect against rot and insect infestation. Ensure that any damaged timber is replaced promptly.
• Damp Proofing: Ensure that the DPC is in good condition and functioning correctly. Address any signs of dampness promptly to prevent further damage.
• Insulation Upgrades: Consider upgrading the insulation to meet modern standards. This can improve the energy efficiency of the property and reduce heating costs.

Variants of the Kincorth MK III House

MK I and MK II

The Kincorth MK III house has two main variants: the MK I and MK II. These earlier versions share many similarities with the MK III but have some distinct differences:

• Gable Wall: The MK I and MK II houses feature a gable wall with a 3″ decorative finish concrete outer leaf, polythene-coated Kraft paper bonded to both sides of insulation, and 1″ polystyrene insulation. The storey-height PC panels are 6″ thick.
• Wall Ties: The MK I and MK II houses use bronze wall ties, which can be more durable than the MS plate ties used in the MK III.

Flats

In addition to bungalows and two-storey terraced houses, the Kincorth system was also used for flats. These properties share many of the same construction characteristics but may have additional considerations, such as communal areas and shared services.

References and Further Reading

For those interested in learning more about the Kincorth MK III houses and system-built properties in general, the following references provide valuable information:

• CIBSA 1967: A comprehensive guide to system-built housing in the UK.
• Scottish NBA Certificate April 1966: Certification details for the Kincorth MK III houses.
• System Building 3, Interbuild, 1965: An overview of system-built housing techniques and innovations.

Conclusion

The Kincorth MK III house is a fascinating example of post-war system-built housing in the UK. With its distinctive architectural features and innovative construction methods, it offers a unique opportunity for home buyers and investors. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards and risks associated with this property type and to conduct thorough inspections to ensure it meets current standards.

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.

---