Historical Context and Background

The Macfarlane house, a unique and rare property type, was manufactured by Walter Macfarlane & Co. in 1926. Only two of these semi-detached bungalows were ever built, making them a rare find in the UK property market. These houses are often located in areas where experimental or prototype housing was encouraged during the early 20th century. The Macfarlane house is an intriguing piece of architectural history, representing the innovative spirit of its time.

Walter Macfarlane & Co., a renowned manufacturer, was known for its expertise in cast iron construction. The company played a significant role in the development of system-built properties, which were designed to be quickly assembled and cost-effective. The Macfarlane house is a testament to their engineering prowess and innovative approach to housing.

Identification Characteristics

Identifying a Macfarlane house is relatively straightforward due to its distinctive features. These semi-detached bungalows have a shallow pitch hipped roof covered with asbestos cement slates. The external walls are rendered with roughcast, giving them a textured appearance. Steel windows are another hallmark of these properties, adding to their unique aesthetic.

Key Identification Features:

• Semi-detached bungalows
• Shallow pitch hipped roof with asbestos cement slates
• Rendered (roughcast) external walls
• Steel windows

Construction Details

Understanding the construction details of a Macfarlane house is crucial for potential buyers and investors. These properties were built using a combination of cast iron and timber, which was innovative for its time. The construction methods and materials used have implications for the property’s durability, maintenance, and potential hazards.

Substructure

The substructure of a Macfarlane house consists of a vented concrete foundation with a damp-proof course (DPC). This foundation type was designed to provide stability and prevent moisture ingress, which is essential for the longevity of the property.

Frame

The frame of the Macfarlane house is composed of cast iron components, including:
– 2 cast iron angle corner stanchions
– 22 cast iron channel section stanchions
– Cast iron angle beams
– Cast iron T-section rafters
– Cast iron angle ceiling ties

These cast iron elements provide structural integrity and support for the property. However, the protective coating used on these components is not known, which could have implications for their long-term durability.

External Walls

The external walls are constructed using rendered (roughcast) rectangular cast iron panels bolted to stanchion flanges. These panels are supported by timber framing lined with fibreboard. The combination of cast iron and timber provides a robust and durable exterior, although it may require regular maintenance to prevent deterioration.

Separating Wall

The separating wall between the semi-detached units is constructed using 4 1/2″ brick. This provides adequate sound insulation and fire resistance, contributing to the overall safety and comfort of the property.

Partitions

Internal partitions are made of timber stud lined with plasterboard. This construction method is typical for properties of this era and provides flexibility for interior modifications if needed.

Ground Floor

The ground floor consists of tongue and groove (T&G) boarding on timber joists. This type of flooring is durable and provides a solid base for the property.

Ceilings

Ceilings in the Macfarlane house are made of fibreboard, which was a common material used in the early 20th century. While it is lightweight and easy to install, it may require replacement or reinforcement over time.

Roof

The roof structure includes timber purlins on cast iron clips, timber boarding, and asbestos cement slates. The use of asbestos in the roofing material is a significant consideration for potential buyers, as it poses health risks and may require professional removal.

Typical Hazards and Risks

When considering the purchase of a Macfarlane house, it is essential to be aware of the typical hazards and risks associated with this property type. Understanding these risks can help buyers make informed decisions and plan for necessary maintenance or repairs.

Asbestos

One of the most significant hazards in a Macfarlane house is the presence of asbestos in the roofing material. Asbestos was commonly used in construction during the early 20th century due to its fire-resistant properties. However, it is now known to pose serious health risks, including lung cancer and asbestosis. If the asbestos cement slates are damaged or deteriorating, professional removal and replacement are necessary.

Corrosion

The cast iron components used in the construction of the Macfarlane house are susceptible to corrosion, especially if the protective coating is compromised. Corrosion can weaken the structural integrity of the property and may require extensive repairs. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent and address corrosion issues.

Moisture Ingress

Moisture ingress is another potential risk for Macfarlane houses, particularly if the damp-proof course (DPC) is compromised. Moisture can lead to mould growth, timber decay, and other structural issues. Ensuring that the DPC is intact and addressing any signs of moisture ingress promptly is crucial for maintaining the property’s condition.

Structural Movement

Due to the combination of cast iron and timber in the construction, Macfarlane houses may be prone to structural movement. This can result in cracks in the walls, floors, and ceilings. Regular monitoring and addressing any signs of movement promptly can help prevent further damage.

Defective Premises Act

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. While the Macfarlane house is not explicitly listed as defective under this act, the presence of asbestos and potential for corrosion and structural movement may raise concerns.

Buyers and investors should conduct thorough inspections and assessments to ensure that the property meets safety and habitability standards. Engaging a professional surveyor with expertise in system-built properties can provide valuable insights and help identify any potential issues.

Inspection and Assessment Guide

Conducting a thorough inspection and assessment of a Macfarlane house is essential for identifying potential issues and planning for necessary repairs or maintenance. The following guide provides a step-by-step approach for inspecting this property type.

Exterior Inspection

1. Roof: Inspect the asbestos cement slates for signs of damage or deterioration. Look for cracks, missing slates, or areas where the asbestos may be exposed. If any issues are identified, professional removal and replacement are necessary.

2. External Walls: Examine the rendered (roughcast) external walls for cracks, bulges, or signs of moisture ingress. Check the condition of the cast iron panels and ensure that they are securely bolted to the stanchion flanges.

3. Windows: Inspect the steel windows for signs of rust, corrosion, or damage. Ensure that the windows open and close properly and that the seals are intact to prevent drafts and moisture ingress.

4. Foundation: Check the vented concrete foundation for signs of cracking, settlement, or moisture ingress. Ensure that the damp-proof course (DPC) is intact and functioning correctly.

Interior Inspection

1. Ceilings: Inspect the fibreboard ceilings for signs of sagging, cracks, or moisture damage. Ensure that the ceiling ties and rafters are in good condition and provide adequate support.

2. Walls: Examine the internal partitions and separating wall for cracks, bulges, or signs of structural movement. Check for any signs of moisture ingress or mould growth.

3. Floors: Inspect the ground floor for signs of movement, sagging, or damage. Check the condition of the tongue and groove (T&G) boarding and timber joists.

4. Structural Components: Examine the cast iron stanchions, beams, and rafters for signs of corrosion or damage. Ensure that the protective coating, if present, is intact and providing adequate protection.

Additional Considerations

1. Asbestos: If asbestos is present in the roofing material or other components, engage a professional asbestos removal specialist to assess the condition and recommend appropriate actions.

2. Corrosion: Regularly inspect and maintain the cast iron components to prevent and address corrosion issues. Consider applying a protective coating if one is not already present.

3. Moisture Control: Ensure that the damp-proof course (DPC) is functioning correctly and address any signs of moisture ingress promptly. Consider installing additional moisture control measures if necessary.

4. Structural Movement: Monitor the property for signs of structural movement and address any issues promptly. Engage a structural engineer if significant movement is detected.

Typical Defects and Maintenance

Understanding the typical defects and maintenance requirements of a Macfarlane house can help buyers and investors plan for necessary repairs and upkeep. Regular maintenance is essential for preserving the property’s condition and ensuring its longevity.

Common Defects

1. Asbestos Deterioration: The asbestos cement slates used in the roofing material may deteriorate over time, posing health risks. Regular inspections and professional removal and replacement are necessary.

2. Corrosion of Cast Iron Components: The cast iron stanchions, beams, and rafters are susceptible to corrosion, especially if the protective coating is compromised. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent and address corrosion issues.

3. Moisture Ingress: Moisture ingress can lead to mould growth, timber decay, and other structural issues. Ensuring that the damp-proof course (DPC) is intact and addressing any signs of moisture ingress promptly is crucial.

4. Structural Movement: Due to the combination of cast iron and timber in the construction, Macfarlane houses may be prone to structural movement. Regular monitoring and addressing any signs of movement promptly can help prevent further damage.

Maintenance Tips

1. Roof Maintenance: Regularly inspect the asbestos cement slates for signs of damage or deterioration. If any issues are identified, engage a professional asbestos removal specialist to assess and recommend appropriate actions.

2. External Wall Maintenance: Inspect the rendered (roughcast) external walls for cracks, bulges, or signs of moisture ingress. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

3. Window Maintenance: Regularly inspect the steel windows for signs of rust, corrosion, or damage. Ensure that the windows open and close properly and that the seals are intact to prevent drafts and moisture ingress.

4. Foundation Maintenance: Check the vented concrete foundation for signs of cracking, settlement, or moisture ingress. Ensure that the damp-proof course (DPC) is intact and functioning correctly.

5. Interior Maintenance: Regularly inspect the ceilings, walls, and floors for signs of damage, moisture ingress, or structural movement. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

6. Corrosion Prevention: Regularly inspect and maintain the cast iron components to prevent and address corrosion issues. Consider applying a protective coating if one is not already present.

7. Moisture Control: Ensure that the damp-proof course (DPC) is functioning correctly and address any signs of moisture ingress promptly. Consider installing additional moisture control measures if necessary.

8. Structural Monitoring: Monitor the property for signs of structural movement and address any issues promptly. Engage a structural engineer if significant movement is detected.

Conclusion

The Macfarlane house is a unique and rare property type that offers a glimpse into the innovative spirit of early 20th-century construction. Understanding the historical context, construction details, typical hazards, and maintenance requirements is essential for potential buyers and investors. By conducting thorough inspections and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure that your Macfarlane house remains a valuable and safe 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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