The Legacy of the Quality House

The Quality House, a distinctive post-war construction, stands as a testament to the innovative building techniques of its time. Developed by G & J Weir Ltd and designed by Cardonald Housing Corp. Ltd, these homes were primarily constructed in 1945. With approximately 4,000 units built, they are predominantly found in various regions across the UK. Known by alternative names such as Phoenix (after refurbishment), Weir, and Weir Quality, these properties have unique characteristics that make them both intriguing and challenging for potential buyers and investors.

Identifying Characteristics of Quality Houses

Quality Houses are typically two-storey semi-detached or terraced homes. They feature flat roofs covered with bituminous felt and external walls made of painted or paint-harled flat steel sheets. A notable architectural feature is the recessed corner porch supported by tubular stanchions. These homes are easily identifiable by their distinctive design and construction materials.

Construction Details

Understanding the construction of Quality Houses is crucial for assessing their condition and potential risks. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their construction:

Substructure

The substructure consists of concrete pads and masonry piers supporting a precast (PC) plinth. A small concrete footing seals the perimeter of the underfloor void, providing stability to the structure.

Frame

The frame is composed of tubular rolled steel (RS) stanchions, with a combination of single and double pre-stressed concrete (PSC) beams forming I-section floor and roof support beams. This robust framework is essential for the structural integrity of the house.

Protective Coating

The external surfaces are protected with stoved iron oxide paint, which is paint-harled for additional durability. This coating helps protect the steel components from corrosion and weathering.

External Walls

The external walls are constructed using storey-height tray-like steel panels with vertically welded trough-shaped steel channel stiffeners. These panels are backed by a cavity and timber frame panels sheathed externally with fibreboard over a vapour control layer, lined with plasterboard for interior finishing.

Separating Wall

The separating wall features a rolled steel angle (RSA) frame and timber frame cavity wall lined with plasterboard. Woodwool slabs are used within the steel frame for insulation and soundproofing.

Partitions

Internal partitions are made of timber stud lined with plasterboard, providing flexibility for interior layout changes.

Floors

The ground floor consists of PC slabs, while the first floor features tongue and groove (T&G) boarding on PSC joists, offering a solid and stable flooring solution.

Ceilings

Ceilings are finished with plasterboard, providing a smooth and clean appearance.

Roof

The roof is flat, covered with bituminous felt, insulation, and flat steel sheets. This design, while innovative at the time, can present challenges in terms of maintenance and weatherproofing.

Variants

Some Quality Houses have variants, including double PSC forming hollow box stanchions, ground floors of T&G boarding on steel joists, and separating walls of steel panels with trough-shaped stiffeners welded on both sides and sprayed with asbestos fibres. Additionally, some have been refurbished with pitched and hipped roofs covered with concrete interlocking tiles.

Typical Hazards and Risks

When considering a Quality House, it’s essential to be aware of potential hazards and risks associated with this property type:

Asbestos Concerns

One of the most significant concerns with Quality Houses is the presence of asbestos fibres. These fibres were sprayed on the inside of steel roof panels and on both sides of the steel panel version separating wall. Asbestos poses serious health risks if disturbed, so it’s crucial to have a professional survey conducted to assess its presence and condition.

Structural Integrity

While the steel frame provides robust support, it’s essential to inspect for any signs of corrosion or damage. The protective coating may have deteriorated over time, leading to potential structural issues.

Roof Maintenance

The flat roof design, while innovative, can be prone to leaks and water damage. Regular maintenance and inspections are necessary to ensure the roof remains watertight and in good condition.

Thermal Efficiency

The original construction materials may not meet modern thermal efficiency standards. Upgrading insulation and windows can improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

Under the Defective Premises Act, a property is considered defective if it poses a risk to health and safety due to its construction. Quality Houses, with their potential asbestos presence and structural concerns, may fall under this category if not properly maintained and inspected. It’s crucial to address any identified defects to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Inspection Tips for Quality Houses

When inspecting a Quality House, consider the following tips to ensure a thorough assessment:

Engage a Professional Surveyor

Given the unique construction and potential hazards, it’s advisable to engage a professional surveyor with experience in system-built properties. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and identify any hidden issues.

Check for Asbestos

Ensure a thorough asbestos survey is conducted to identify any presence of asbestos fibres. If asbestos is found, consult with a specialist for safe removal or encapsulation.

Inspect the Roof

Examine the flat roof for signs of wear, leaks, or damage. Consider upgrading to a pitched roof with interlocking tiles for improved durability and weather resistance.

Assess Structural Components

Inspect the steel frame and stanchions for signs of corrosion or damage. Ensure the protective coating is intact and consider reapplying if necessary.

Evaluate Thermal Efficiency

Assess the insulation and windows for thermal efficiency. Upgrading these components can enhance comfort and reduce energy costs.

Consider Refurbishment Options

If the property has not been refurbished, consider options for upgrading the exterior with a brick outer skin and a pitched or hipped roof. These improvements can enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

Conclusion

Quality Houses, with their unique construction and historical significance, offer both opportunities and challenges for home buyers and investors. Understanding their characteristics, potential hazards, and inspection requirements is crucial for making informed decisions. By engaging professional surveyors and addressing any identified issues, you can ensure a safe and valuable investment in these distinctive properties.

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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