Historical Context and Background

The Gateshead Corporation house, also known as the Gateshead Experimental house, is a unique property type that emerged in the post-war era. Designed by the Gateshead Borough Council, these houses were constructed in 1950 as part of an experimental initiative to address the housing shortage in the UK. Only four of these properties were built, making them a rare find in today’s property market.

These houses are typically located in the Gateshead area, a town in Tyne and Wear, North East England. The experimental nature of these houses means they were built using innovative construction techniques and materials that were not widely adopted at the time. This makes them an interesting case study for both home buyers and property investors.

Manufacturers and Designers

The Gateshead Corporation houses were designed by the Gateshead Borough Council. The council aimed to create a cost-effective and efficient housing solution using prefabricated reinforced concrete (PRC) slabs and steel frames. The construction was overseen by local contractors who followed the council’s specifications closely.

Typical Characteristics

Structural Design

The Gateshead Corporation houses are two-storey semi-detached properties. They feature a steep pitch gable roof covered with asbestos cement tiles, which was a common roofing material in the mid-20th century. The external walls are made entirely of PRC slabs, providing a robust and durable structure. The gable apex is also covered with asbestos cement tiles, adding to the uniformity of the design.

External Features

One of the distinctive features of these houses is the flat canopy over the front door, supported by tubular steel columns. This design element not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also provides practical shelter from the elements.

Internal Layout

Internally, the houses are designed with a concrete ground floor and a first floor made of pitchmastic on PRC slabs. The ceilings on the ground floor are ribbed metal lathing, while the first floor features plasterboard ceilings. The internal partitions are constructed from foamed slag concrete blocks, providing good thermal and acoustic insulation.

Typical Hazards and Risks

Asbestos

One of the primary concerns with Gateshead Corporation houses is the presence of asbestos in the roofing and gable apex tiles. Asbestos was widely used in construction during the mid-20th century due to its fire-resistant properties. However, it is now known to pose significant health risks if disturbed. Home buyers and investors should be aware of the potential need for asbestos removal or encapsulation, which can be costly.

PRC Deterioration

The use of PRC slabs in the external walls can also pose risks. Over time, PRC can deteriorate, leading to structural issues. This is particularly concerning in properties that have not been well-maintained. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to ensure the longevity of these houses.

Steel Frame Corrosion

The steel frame, while providing a strong structural foundation, is susceptible to corrosion if not properly protected. The original protective coating of red oxide paint may have worn off over the years, exposing the steel to moisture and leading to rust. This can compromise the structural integrity of the house.

Defective Premises Act

The Gateshead Corporation houses are not classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act. However, due to their unique construction and the potential hazards associated with PRC and asbestos, they require careful inspection and maintenance. Home buyers and investors should be aware of these factors and consider them when evaluating the property.

Inspection Guide for Surveyors

Pre-Inspection Preparation

Before conducting an inspection, surveyors should familiarize themselves with the specific characteristics of Gateshead Corporation houses. Reference materials such as “Steel framed and steel clad houses: inspection and assessment (BR 113)” and “Inspecting steel houses (IP 14/87)” provide valuable guidance.

External Inspection

Roof

Inspect the asbestos cement tiles for signs of damage or wear. Look for any loose or missing tiles and check for moss or algae growth, which can indicate moisture retention.

Walls

Examine the PRC slabs for cracks, spalling, or other signs of deterioration. Pay particular attention to the joints between slabs, as these can be weak points.

Canopy and Columns

Check the flat canopy over the front door for stability and any signs of rust or corrosion on the tubular steel columns.

Internal Inspection

Ground Floor

Inspect the concrete ground floor for cracks or uneven surfaces. Check for any signs of moisture ingress, which can lead to further deterioration.

First Floor

Examine the pitchmastic on PRC slabs for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure that the plasterboard ceilings are intact and free from cracks.

Partitions

Check the foamed slag concrete block partitions for any signs of structural issues or moisture damage.

Steel Frame

Inspect the steel frame for signs of corrosion. Pay particular attention to the joints and connections, as these are critical points for structural integrity. Ensure that the protective coating is intact and consider reapplying if necessary.

Typical Construction Details

Substructure

The substructure of Gateshead Corporation houses consists of concrete strip footings and a concrete underbuilding thickened below stanchions. A concrete slab forms the base, with a damp-proof course (DPC) to prevent moisture ingress.

Frame

The frame is constructed from 11 double rolled steel channel (RSC) stanchions, each forming a hollow box. The frame also includes four rolled steel joist (RSJ) perimeter beams, one RSJ floor support beam, three RSJ roof trusses, and rolled steel angle (RSA) purlins and bracings. The frame members are connected using Kariscol joints, which provide a strong and stable connection.

External Walls

The external walls are made from PRC slabs with a cavity and foamed slag concrete blocks. The gable apex is covered with asbestos cement tiles on timber battens.

Separating Wall

The separating wall between semi-detached units is constructed from foamed slag concrete block cavity walls, providing good sound insulation and fire resistance.

Partitions

Internal partitions are made from foamed slag concrete blocks, offering good thermal and acoustic insulation.

Ground Floor

The ground floor is a concrete slab, providing a solid and durable base.

First Floor

The first floor consists of pitchmastic on PRC slabs, providing a strong and stable surface.

Ceilings

The ground floor ceilings are ribbed metal lathing, while the first floor ceilings are plasterboard.

Roof

The roof is constructed from timber rafters and covered with asbestos cement tiles.

Typical Defects

Asbestos-Related Issues

As previously mentioned, the presence of asbestos in the roofing and gable apex tiles is a significant concern. Over time, these materials can become friable, releasing asbestos fibres into the air. This poses a serious health risk and requires professional removal or encapsulation.

PRC Deterioration

PRC slabs can deteriorate over time, leading to cracks, spalling, and other structural issues. This is particularly concerning in properties that have not been well-maintained. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to ensure the longevity of these houses.

Steel Frame Corrosion

The steel frame is susceptible to corrosion if not properly protected. The original protective coating of red oxide paint may have worn off over the years, exposing the steel to moisture and leading to rust. This can compromise the structural integrity of the house.

Moisture Ingress

Moisture ingress can lead to a range of issues, including mould growth, wood rot, and structural damage. It is important to ensure that the damp-proof course (DPC) is intact and that there are no signs of moisture ingress in the substructure or walls.

Thermal Insulation

While the foamed slag concrete blocks used in the partitions and separating walls provide good thermal insulation, the overall thermal performance of the house may not meet modern standards. Upgrading the insulation in the walls, roof, and floors can improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

Maintenance and Improvement Tips

Asbestos Management

If asbestos is present in the roofing or gable apex tiles, it is important to manage it safely. This may involve encapsulation, where the asbestos is sealed to prevent fibres from being released, or professional removal by a licensed contractor.

PRC Repairs

Regular inspections of the PRC slabs are essential to identify any signs of deterioration. Repairs may involve patching cracks, replacing damaged slabs, or applying a protective coating to prevent further damage.

Steel Frame Protection

To prevent corrosion, it is important to ensure that the steel frame is properly protected. This may involve reapplying a protective coating, such as red oxide paint, and addressing any areas where rust is present.

Moisture Control

Ensuring that the damp-proof course (DPC) is intact and addressing any signs of moisture ingress is crucial to prevent mould growth and structural damage. This may involve repairing or replacing the DPC, improving drainage around the property, and addressing any leaks or damp issues.

Insulation Upgrades

Upgrading the insulation in the walls, roof, and floors can improve the thermal performance of the house and reduce heating costs. This may involve adding insulation to the cavity walls, installing loft insulation, and upgrading the windows to double or triple glazing.

Conclusion

The Gateshead Corporation house is a unique and interesting property type that offers both challenges and opportunities for home buyers and investors. While the presence of asbestos and the potential for PRC deterioration and steel frame corrosion are significant concerns, these issues can be managed with regular inspections and maintenance.

Understanding the typical construction details and common defects of these houses is crucial for making informed decisions when buying or investing in a Gateshead Corporation house. By following the inspection guide and maintenance tips provided in this article, you can ensure that your investment is well-protected and that the property remains safe and habitable for years to come.

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.