Understanding the Beco Wallform House

The Beco Wallform house, a product of innovative construction techniques, has been a notable presence in the UK property market since its inception in 1975. Designed by Beco Products Ltd and manufactured by Vencel Resil Ltd, these properties have carved a niche for themselves due to their unique construction methodology and distinctive characteristics. Known alternatively as the Isorat Bausystem, these homes are found in various forms, including bungalows, chalet bungalows, and two-storey houses.

Historical Context and Manufacturing Details

Period and Location

The Beco Wallform houses began their journey in 1975 and have continued to be built in various locations across the UK. These properties are often found in suburban areas, where the demand for cost-effective and energy-efficient housing solutions is high. The design and construction techniques employed in these houses were revolutionary at the time, offering a blend of durability and thermal efficiency.

Manufacturers and Designers

The Beco Wallform system was designed by Beco Products Ltd, a company known for its innovative approach to building materials and construction techniques. The manufacturing was handled by Vencel Resil Ltd, a firm with a reputation for producing high-quality construction products. Together, these companies created a housing solution that was both practical and forward-thinking.

Key Characteristics of Beco Wallform Houses

External Features

Beco Wallform houses are easily identifiable by their steep pitch hipped or gable roofs, which are typically covered with slates or concrete tiles. The external walls are clad with a variety of materials, including brick, stone, render, or timber boarding. This variety in cladding materials allows for a range of aesthetic finishes, making these homes adaptable to different architectural styles and preferences.

Internal Structure

The internal structure of Beco Wallform houses is characterized by the use of ribbed polystyrene foam permanent shuttering blocks filled with concrete. This method provides excellent thermal insulation and structural integrity. The walls are typically rendered and plastered, creating a smooth and durable finish. The floors are constructed using either timber or pre-stressed reinforced concrete (PRC) beams with concrete block infill, providing a solid and stable base.

Roof Construction

The roofs of Beco Wallform houses are constructed using timber rafters, which are then covered with slates or concrete tiles. This combination of materials ensures a robust and weather-resistant roof structure, capable of withstanding the varied climatic conditions of the UK.

Typical Hazards and Risks

Structural Concerns

One of the primary concerns with Beco Wallform houses is the potential for structural issues related to the concrete infill and the ribbed polystyrene foam blocks. Over time, the concrete can suffer from carbonation, leading to the corrosion of the steel reinforcement within. This can compromise the structural integrity of the walls and floors.

Thermal Performance

While the polystyrene foam provides excellent thermal insulation, it can also pose a fire risk if not properly protected. It is essential to ensure that the foam is adequately covered with fire-resistant materials to mitigate this risk.

Moisture Ingress

Moisture ingress is another potential issue, particularly in areas where the external cladding has deteriorated or been damaged. Water penetration can lead to the degradation of the polystyrene foam and the concrete infill, resulting in structural weaknesses and potential health hazards such as mould growth.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

The Beco Wallform house is not classed as defective under the Defective Premises Act. However, it is crucial for potential buyers and investors to be aware of the specific risks and maintenance requirements associated with this type of property. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential to ensure the long-term durability and safety of these homes.

Inspection and Assessment Guide

External Inspection

When inspecting a Beco Wallform house, start with a thorough examination of the external cladding. Look for signs of damage, deterioration, or moisture ingress. Pay particular attention to the areas around windows and doors, as these are common points of entry for water.

Roof Inspection

Inspect the roof for any missing or damaged slates or tiles. Check the condition of the timber rafters and ensure that there are no signs of rot or insect infestation. It is also important to examine the roof’s overall structure to ensure that it is sound and capable of withstanding the elements.

Internal Inspection

Inside the house, check the condition of the walls and floors. Look for any signs of cracking or movement, which could indicate structural issues. Pay attention to the condition of the plaster and render, as any damage here could expose the underlying polystyrene foam and concrete to potential hazards.

Moisture and Thermal Performance

Use a moisture meter to check for any signs of dampness within the walls and floors. Additionally, assess the thermal performance of the property by checking for any cold spots or areas where insulation may be lacking. This can help identify potential issues with the polystyrene foam and ensure that the property is energy-efficient.

Construction Details

Substructure

The substructure of Beco Wallform houses typically consists of concrete foundations with a damp-proof course (DPC) to prevent moisture ingress from the ground. This provides a solid and stable base for the rest of the structure.

External Walls

The external walls are constructed using ribbed polystyrene foam permanent shuttering blocks filled with concrete. These walls are then rendered and plastered to create a smooth and durable finish. The use of polystyrene foam provides excellent thermal insulation, while the concrete infill ensures structural integrity.

Separating Walls

Separating walls between different rooms or units are also constructed using ribbed polystyrene foam permanent shuttering blocks filled with concrete. This method provides both sound insulation and structural stability.

Partitions

Internal partitions are typically made using ribbed metal polystyrene permanent shuttering blocks filled with concrete. This creates a robust and durable partition that can withstand the rigours of daily use.

Floors

The floors in Beco Wallform houses are constructed using either timber or PRC beams with concrete block infill. This provides a solid and stable base that is capable of supporting the weight of the structure and its occupants.

Ceilings

Ceilings are typically made using plasterboard, which is then finished with a smooth plaster coat. This creates a clean and aesthetically pleasing finish that is easy to maintain.

Roof

The roof structure is made using timber rafters, which are then covered with slates or concrete tiles. This combination of materials ensures a robust and weather-resistant roof that can withstand the varied climatic conditions of the UK.

Variants and Customizations

External Wall Variants

Beco Wallform houses can feature a variety of external wall finishes, including rounded corner blocks, squint blocks, or adjustable radius blocks. These variations allow for a range of aesthetic finishes and can help the property blend in with its surroundings.

Cladding Options

The external walls can be clad with cavity brickwork, timber boarding on timber battens, or other materials. This allows for a range of aesthetic finishes and can help the property blend in with its surroundings.

Floor Variants

Floors can be constructed using lightweight steel beams with insulation infill panels and an in-situ concrete overlay. This provides a solid and stable base that is capable of supporting the weight of the structure and its occupants.

Roof Cover Variants

The roof can be covered with concrete tiles instead of slates, providing an alternative aesthetic finish that is both durable and weather-resistant.

Common Defects and Maintenance Tips

Concrete Degradation

One of the most common defects in Beco Wallform houses is the degradation of the concrete infill. Over time, the concrete can suffer from carbonation, leading to the corrosion of the steel reinforcement within. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential to prevent this issue from compromising the structural integrity of the property.

Polystyrene Foam Deterioration

The polystyrene foam used in the construction of Beco Wallform houses can deteriorate over time, particularly if it is exposed to moisture or fire. It is essential to ensure that the foam is adequately protected with fire-resistant materials and that any damage to the external cladding is promptly repaired.

Moisture Ingress

Moisture ingress is a common issue in Beco Wallform houses, particularly in areas where the external cladding has deteriorated or been damaged. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential to prevent water penetration and the associated risks of mould growth and structural degradation.

Roof Maintenance

The roof of a Beco Wallform house requires regular maintenance to ensure that it remains weather-resistant and structurally sound. Inspect the roof for any missing or damaged slates or tiles, and check the condition of the timber rafters for signs of rot or insect infestation.

Thermal Performance

Maintaining the thermal performance of a Beco Wallform house is essential to ensure energy efficiency and comfort. Regularly check for any cold spots or areas where insulation may be lacking, and address any issues promptly to maintain the property’s thermal efficiency.

Conclusion

The Beco Wallform house represents a unique and innovative approach to construction, offering a blend of durability, thermal efficiency, and aesthetic versatility. However, like any property, it comes with its own set of risks and maintenance requirements. By understanding the key characteristics, potential hazards, and common defects associated with these homes, buyers and investors can make informed decisions and ensure the long-term safety and durability of 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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