Understanding the Mactrad House

The Mactrad house, a distinctive system-built property, holds a unique place in the UK’s architectural landscape. Constructed between 1964 and 1971, these homes were the brainchild of John Maclean & Sons Ltd, with designs crafted by E N Hall. During this period, approximately 3,200 Mactrad houses were built, including rationalised traditional dwellings under the same name. Known alternatively as MacLean houses, these properties are primarily found in suburban areas across the UK, offering a glimpse into the mid-20th-century construction trends.

Construction Characteristics

The Mactrad house is a testament to the innovative building techniques of its time. Understanding its construction is crucial for potential buyers and investors, as it provides insight into the property’s durability and potential maintenance needs.

Substructure and External Walls

The foundation of a Mactrad house is laid on concrete strip footings, with a brick underbuilding and a damp-proof course (DPC) to prevent moisture ingress. The external walls are constructed using a combination of balloon and platform frame techniques. The eaves height gable wall panels and storey height front and rear wall panels are sheathed externally with plywood, overlaid with building paper, and clad with brick. Horizontal timber boarding is used between the ground floor and first-floor windows on the front and rear elevations. Internally, the walls are lined with plasterboard over a polyethylene vapour control layer, with mineral fibre insulation between the frame studs.

Separating Walls and Partitions

The separating walls in Mactrad houses are timber frame cavity walls, lined with plasterboard and insulated with mineral fibre. Internal partitions are also timber stud constructions, lined with plasterboard, providing a lightweight yet sturdy structure.

Floors and Ceilings

The ground floor of a Mactrad house is typically concrete, offering a solid base, while the first floor consists of tongue-and-groove boarding on timber joists. Ceilings are finished with plasterboard, contributing to the overall aesthetic and acoustic properties of the home.

Roof Structure

The roof of a Mactrad house is supported by timber trusses, covered with bituminous felt and concrete tiles. Mineral fibre insulation, laminated to paper, is installed at ceiling level to enhance thermal efficiency.

Variants and Identification

Mactrad houses come in various forms, including chalet bungalows and two-storey semi-detached and terraced houses. Chalet bungalows feature a steep pitch gable roof, while other variants may have a shallow pitch gable or monopitch roof. The external walls may be clad with vertical timber boarding, plastics-coated metal, or timber boarded infill panels, with some houses featuring a band of horizontal timber boarding at the first-floor level.

Typical Hazards and Risks

When considering a Mactrad house, it’s essential to be aware of potential hazards and risks associated with this property type. One common issue is the localised decay of window joinery, which can lead to draughts and water ingress if not addressed promptly. Additionally, the timber elements of the construction may be susceptible to rot and insect infestation, particularly if the property has not been adequately maintained.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

The Defective Premises Act 1972 aims to ensure that properties are constructed and maintained to a reasonable standard. While Mactrad houses are not inherently classified as defective under this act, potential buyers should be vigilant in assessing the condition of the property. Engaging a professional surveyor to conduct a thorough inspection can help identify any issues that may require attention.

Inspection Tips for Mactrad Houses

Inspecting a Mactrad house requires a keen eye for detail and an understanding of its unique construction features. Here are some key areas to focus on during an inspection:

1. Foundation and Substructure: Check for signs of subsidence or movement in the concrete strip footings and brick underbuilding. Look for cracks or gaps that may indicate structural issues.

2. External Walls: Examine the condition of the brick cladding and horizontal timber boarding. Look for signs of rot, decay, or damage to the plywood sheathing and building paper.

3. Roof and Insulation: Inspect the roof for missing or damaged tiles, and check the condition of the bituminous felt. Ensure that the mineral fibre insulation is intact and providing adequate thermal protection.

4. Windows and Joinery: Pay close attention to the condition of the window joinery, looking for signs of decay or damage. Ensure that windows open and close smoothly and that seals are intact.

5. Internal Walls and Partitions: Check for any signs of movement or cracking in the plasterboard linings. Ensure that the timber frame cavity walls are free from damp or mould.

6. Floors and Ceilings: Inspect the concrete ground floor for cracks or unevenness. Check the first-floor tongue-and-groove boarding for signs of wear or damage.

Typical Defects in Mactrad Houses

While Mactrad houses are generally robust, they are not immune to defects. Some common issues include:

• Timber Decay: The timber elements of the construction, particularly in the external walls and roof, may be prone to decay if exposed to moisture.

• Insulation Degradation: Over time, the mineral fibre insulation may degrade, reducing its effectiveness and leading to increased energy costs.

• Window Joinery Issues: As mentioned earlier, localised decay of window joinery is a common problem, potentially leading to draughts and water ingress.

• Roofing Problems: The concrete tiles and bituminous felt may deteriorate over time, leading to leaks and water damage.

Maintaining a Mactrad House

Proper maintenance is key to preserving the integrity and value of a Mactrad house. Regular inspections and timely repairs can help prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems. Here are some maintenance tips for Mactrad homeowners:

• Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the property’s key components, including the roof, external walls, windows, and insulation. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

• Timber Treatment: Treat timber elements with appropriate preservatives to protect against rot and insect infestation. Ensure that any damaged timber is repaired or replaced as needed.

• Insulation Upgrades: Consider upgrading the insulation to modern standards to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

• Window Maintenance: Regularly check the condition of window joinery and seals. Repaint or reseal windows as necessary to maintain their integrity.

• Roof Repairs: Address any roofing issues promptly, replacing damaged tiles and repairing leaks to prevent water ingress.

Investing in a Mactrad House

For investors, Mactrad houses offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of mid-20th-century architectural history. These properties can be attractive to buyers seeking character and charm, particularly if they have been well-maintained and updated to modern standards.

Market Considerations

When investing in a Mactrad house, it’s important to consider the local property market and demand for this type of home. Research the area to understand the potential for capital growth and rental yields. Additionally, consider the cost of any necessary repairs or upgrades when evaluating the investment potential.

Financing and Insurance

Securing financing for a Mactrad house may require additional considerations due to its non-traditional construction. Some lenders may have specific requirements or restrictions, so it’s important to work with a mortgage broker who understands the nuances of system-built properties. Similarly, obtaining insurance for a Mactrad house may require a specialist provider who can assess the unique risks associated with this property type.

Conclusion

The Mactrad house is a fascinating example of mid-20th-century system-built architecture, offering both challenges and opportunities for home buyers and investors. By understanding its construction characteristics, potential hazards, and maintenance needs, you can make informed decisions when considering a Mactrad property. Whether you’re looking to purchase a home with character or invest in a unique piece of architectural history, the Mactrad house presents a compelling option.

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.

---