Overview of the Potters Bar Special House

The Potters Bar Special house is a unique and intriguing property type that has piqued the interest of home buyers and investors alike. Constructed in the 1920s, these properties were designed and built by Concrete Buildings Ltd, a company renowned for its innovative use of concrete in residential construction. With only 20 of these houses ever built, they are a rare find in the UK property market. This article aims to provide a detailed examination of the Potters Bar Special house, covering its construction, typical characteristics, potential hazards, and inspection tips for prospective buyers.

Historical Context and Manufacturing Details

Period Built and Typical Locations

The Potters Bar Special houses were constructed in the 1920s, a period marked by significant advancements in building technology and materials. These houses are typically found in semi-detached and terraced configurations, primarily located in suburban areas. The use of concrete as a primary building material was a revolutionary approach at the time, offering durability and fire resistance.

Manufacturers and Designers

Concrete Buildings Ltd, the manufacturer behind the Potters Bar Special houses, was a pioneer in the use of concrete for residential construction. The designers of these houses aimed to create affordable, durable homes that could withstand the test of time. The use of concrete was not only cost-effective but also provided excellent thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.

Typical Characteristics of the Potters Bar Special House

External Features

The Potters Bar Special houses are easily identifiable by their shallow pitch hipped roofs covered with concrete tiles. The external walls are rendered throughout, giving the houses a distinctive appearance. These properties are typically two-storey structures, either semi-detached or terraced.

Internal Features

While specific details about the internal construction of these houses are not well-documented, it is known that the external walls are made of rendered dense aggregate PC and clinker aggregate cavity blocks. These blocks are reinforced with wire at the interface of the two concretes, providing additional structural integrity.

Potential Hazards and Risks

Structural Concerns

One of the primary concerns with the Potters Bar Special houses is the potential for structural issues related to the use of reinforced concrete. Over time, concrete can suffer from various forms of degradation, including carbonation and chloride-induced corrosion. These issues can compromise the structural integrity of the property, making it essential for prospective buyers to conduct thorough inspections.

Moisture Ingress

The use of concrete in construction can also lead to issues with moisture ingress. If the concrete is not properly sealed or maintained, water can penetrate the structure, leading to dampness and potential mould growth. This can have serious implications for the health and safety of the occupants.

Defective Premises Act

It is important to note that the Potters Bar Special houses are not classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act. However, this does not mean that they are free from potential issues. Buyers should still exercise caution and conduct comprehensive surveys to identify any underlying problems.

Inspection Tips for Prospective Buyers

External Inspection

When inspecting a Potters Bar Special house, start with a thorough examination of the external features. Look for signs of cracking or spalling in the concrete render, as these can indicate underlying structural issues. Pay particular attention to the roof, checking for any missing or damaged tiles that could lead to water ingress.

Internal Inspection

Inside the property, check for signs of dampness or mould, particularly in areas where the concrete walls are exposed. Look for any cracks or bulges in the walls, as these can be indicative of structural problems. It is also advisable to check the condition of the windows and doors, ensuring that they are properly sealed and free from rot.

Professional Survey

Given the potential complexities associated with the Potters Bar Special houses, it is highly recommended to engage a professional surveyor with experience in concrete construction. A detailed survey can identify any hidden issues and provide a comprehensive assessment of the property’s condition.

Construction Details

Substructure

The specific details of the substructure for the Potters Bar Special houses are not well-documented. However, it is likely that they were built on traditional strip foundations, which were common during the 1920s.

External Walls

The external walls of the Potters Bar Special houses are constructed from rendered dense aggregate PC and clinker aggregate cavity blocks. These blocks are reinforced with wire at the interface of the two concretes, providing additional strength and durability. The walls are typically 12 inches thick, offering excellent thermal mass and sound insulation.

Separating Walls and Partitions

Details about the separating walls and internal partitions are not well-documented. However, it is likely that they were constructed using traditional masonry techniques, with brick or blockwork providing the necessary structural support.

Floors

The specific details of the ground and first floors are not known. However, it is likely that the ground floor was constructed using a suspended timber floor, while the first floor was built using traditional timber joists and floorboards.

Ceilings

The ceilings in the Potters Bar Special houses are likely to be constructed from traditional lath and plaster, which was a common technique during the 1920s. This method involves fixing wooden laths to the ceiling joists and then applying multiple layers of plaster to create a smooth finish.

Roof

The roof of the Potters Bar Special houses is a shallow pitch hipped design, covered with concrete tiles. This type of roof offers excellent durability and weather resistance, making it well-suited to the UK climate.

Typical Defects and Maintenance Considerations

Concrete Degradation

One of the most common issues with the Potters Bar Special houses is the degradation of the concrete used in their construction. Over time, concrete can suffer from carbonation, which reduces its alkalinity and makes it more susceptible to corrosion. Chloride-induced corrosion is another potential issue, particularly in areas where de-icing salts are used.

Moisture Ingress

As mentioned earlier, moisture ingress can be a significant problem in concrete buildings. If the concrete is not properly sealed or maintained, water can penetrate the structure, leading to dampness and potential mould growth. Regular maintenance and the application of appropriate sealants can help to mitigate this risk.

Structural Cracking

Structural cracking is another common issue with the Potters Bar Special houses. Cracks can develop in the concrete render due to thermal movement, settlement, or other factors. It is important to address any cracks promptly to prevent further deterioration and potential structural issues.

Roof Maintenance

The concrete tiles used on the roof of the Potters Bar Special houses are generally durable and long-lasting. However, they can become damaged or dislodged over time, particularly in areas exposed to high winds. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure the roof remains in good condition and to prevent water ingress.

Conclusion

The Potters Bar Special house is a unique and historically significant property type that offers both opportunities and challenges for home buyers and investors. While these houses are not classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act, they can still present potential issues related to concrete degradation, moisture ingress, and structural cracking.

Prospective buyers should conduct thorough inspections, both externally and internally, to identify any underlying problems. Engaging a professional surveyor with experience in concrete construction is highly recommended to ensure a comprehensive assessment of the property’s condition.

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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