Understanding the Reema Conclad House

The Reema Conclad house, a product of post-war Britain, represents a significant chapter in the history of system-built properties. These homes, constructed between 1967 and the 1970s, were part of a broader initiative to address the housing shortage in the UK. Manufactured by Reema Ltd, these properties are also known by alternative names such as Engineered Homes, Reema Coffered Panel, and Reema Waffle Panel. This article delves into the intricate details of Reema Conclad houses, providing essential insights for home buyers and investors.

Historical Context and Manufacturing Details

Period of Construction

The Reema Conclad houses were built during a period of rapid urban development, specifically from 1967 to the late 1970s. This era saw a surge in the construction of system-built homes, driven by the need for quick and cost-effective housing solutions.

Manufacturers and Designers

Reema Ltd, a prominent name in the construction industry, was the primary manufacturer of these homes. The design and engineering of these properties were tailored to meet the demands of the time, focusing on efficiency and durability.

Typical Locations

Reema Conclad houses are predominantly found in suburban areas across the UK. These properties were often part of larger housing estates, designed to accommodate the growing population in urban and semi-urban regions.

Characteristics and Identification

Architectural Features

Reema Conclad houses are typically bungalows or two-storey semi-detached homes. They feature a medium pitch gable roof covered with concrete tiles or, in some cases, a flat roof. The external walls are constructed using storey-height exposed aggregate precast concrete (PC) panels, giving these homes a distinctive appearance.

Structural Components

• Substructure: The foundation comprises concrete underbuilding, a concrete edge beam, and a concrete slab with a damp-proof course (DPC).
• External Walls: Reinforced concrete (RC) columns with steel reinforcement bars at intermediate floor levels. The walls are made of 7-inch exposed aggregate ribbed PC panels with a 2-inch external leaf and a 5-inch cavity.
• Separating Walls: Storey-height PC panels.
• Partitions: Timber stud lined with plasterboard.
• Ground Floor: Concrete.
• First Floor: Timber joists on galvanised joist hangers.
• Ceilings: Plasterboard.
• Roof: Timber trusses and concrete tiles.

Variants

Reema Conclad houses come in several variants, including:

• External walls with 8 1/2-inch ribbed PC panels and a 3 1/2-inch outer leaf.
• External walls with 6-inch waffle wall panels.
• External walls with 7-inch PC panels, comprising different combinations of outer leaf, insulation, and inner leaf.
• External walls with windows cast in.
• Floors made of PC panels or tongue-and-groove boarding on PC panels.
• Flat roofs made of PC slabs.
• Separating walls made of 5 1/2-inch PC panels.

Typical Hazards and Risks

Structural Concerns

One of the primary concerns with Reema Conclad houses is the potential for structural degradation over time. The use of reinforced concrete, while initially robust, can lead to issues such as:

• Corrosion of Steel Reinforcement: Over time, the steel reinforcement within the concrete can corrode, leading to structural weaknesses. This is particularly prevalent in areas with high moisture levels.
• Carbonation: The process of carbonation can reduce the alkalinity of concrete, making it more susceptible to corrosion. This is a common issue in older Reema Conclad houses.
• Concrete Spalling: As the steel reinforcement corrodes, it can cause the concrete to crack and spall, further compromising the structural integrity.

Thermal Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Reema Conclad houses, like many system-built homes of their era, often suffer from poor thermal insulation. The original construction materials and methods did not prioritise energy efficiency, leading to higher heating costs and potential issues with damp and condensation.

Asbestos

Asbestos was commonly used in construction during the period when Reema Conclad houses were built. It can be found in various components, including insulation, roofing materials, and floor tiles. Asbestos poses significant health risks if disturbed, making it a critical consideration for any renovation or maintenance work.

Defective Premises Act and Reema Conclad Houses

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. Reema Conclad houses, due to their age and the potential for structural issues, may be classified as defective under this act. This classification can impact mortgage availability and insurance premiums, making it essential for buyers and investors to conduct thorough due diligence.

Inspection and Assessment Guide

Pre-Inspection Preparation

Before inspecting a Reema Conclad house, it is crucial to gather relevant information and tools. This includes:

• Historical Data: Obtain any available records on the property’s construction, previous repairs, and maintenance history.
• Inspection Tools: Ensure you have a moisture meter, endoscope, and other necessary tools for a comprehensive assessment.
• Safety Gear: Given the potential presence of asbestos, appropriate safety gear, including masks and gloves, is essential.

External Inspection

• Roof: Check for signs of damage or wear on the concrete tiles or flat roof. Look for any evidence of water ingress or structural sagging.
• Walls: Inspect the external PC panels for cracks, spalling, or signs of corrosion. Pay particular attention to the joints and connections between panels.
• Foundation: Examine the concrete underbuilding and edge beam for any signs of settlement or cracking.

Internal Inspection

• Walls and Partitions: Check for any signs of damp, mould, or structural movement. Use a moisture meter to assess the extent of any damp issues.
• Floors: Inspect the concrete ground floor and timber joists on the first floor for any signs of damage or wear. Look for any evidence of rot or insect infestation in the timber components.
• Ceilings: Examine the plasterboard ceilings for cracks or signs of water damage.
• Asbestos: Identify any materials that may contain asbestos and ensure they are not disturbed during the inspection.

Structural Assessment

• Reinforcement Corrosion: Use an endoscope to inspect the condition of the steel reinforcement within the concrete. Look for any signs of rust or corrosion.
• Carbonation Depth: Assess the depth of carbonation in the concrete using appropriate testing methods. This will help determine the extent of any potential structural issues.
• Spalling: Identify any areas where the concrete has spalled and assess the severity of the damage.

Maintenance and Repair Considerations

Addressing Structural Issues

• Corrosion Protection: Implement measures to protect the steel reinforcement from further corrosion. This may include applying corrosion inhibitors or using cathodic protection systems.
• Concrete Repair: Repair any areas of spalled concrete using appropriate repair mortars and techniques. Ensure that the repairs are carried out by qualified professionals.
• Carbonation Mitigation: Apply surface treatments to reduce the rate of carbonation and protect the concrete from further degradation.

Improving Thermal Insulation

• External Insulation: Consider adding external insulation to improve the thermal performance of the property. This can help reduce heating costs and improve energy efficiency.
• Window Upgrades: Replace single-glazed windows with double or triple glazing to enhance thermal insulation and reduce heat loss.

Asbestos Management

• Professional Assessment: Engage a qualified asbestos surveyor to assess the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials. Follow their recommendations for safe management or removal.
• Safe Removal: If asbestos removal is necessary, ensure it is carried out by licensed professionals following all relevant safety regulations.

Conclusion

Reema Conclad houses, with their unique construction and historical significance, offer both opportunities and challenges for home buyers and investors. Understanding the typical characteristics, potential hazards, and necessary maintenance considerations is crucial for making informed decisions. By conducting thorough inspections and addressing any identified issues, these properties can be transformed into safe and comfortable homes.

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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