Historical Context and Manufacturing

The Atholl 1945 house, a product of post-World War II Britain, represents a significant chapter in the history of UK housing. Manufactured by Atholl Steel Houses Ltd, these homes were constructed between 1945 and 1948. The period immediately following the war saw a desperate need for rapid housing solutions, leading to the development of various system-built properties, including the Atholl house. Approximately 1,600 of these homes were built, primarily in urban and suburban areas across the UK.

The designers of the Atholl house aimed to create a durable, cost-effective solution to the housing crisis. The use of steel and other readily available materials allowed for quick assembly and provided a robust structure that could withstand the test of time. However, like many post-war constructions, these houses come with their own set of challenges and considerations for modern buyers and investors.

Identifying Characteristics

Atholl houses are typically two-storey semi-detached or terraced properties. They feature a medium pitch hipped roof, which is often covered with interlocking clay tiles or asbestos cement slates. The external walls are made of painted or paint-harled flat steel sheets, with exposed stanchion flanges or narrow cover plates masking the vertical joints of the steel sheets. A distinctive feature of these homes is the flat or sloping canopy over the front door, which adds a unique architectural element.

Common Variants

While the basic design of Atholl houses remains consistent, there are some variations, particularly in terraced houses. In these variants, stanchions and perimeter ties are omitted in the separating wall, and a 9-inch brick separating wall is used instead. Additionally, brick or block partitions and lath and plaster linings and ceilings are common in these variants. The ground floor may also be suspended, consisting of tongue-and-groove (T&G) boarding on timber joists.

Construction Details

Understanding the construction details of Atholl houses is crucial for potential buyers and investors. These homes were built using a combination of steel, timber, and asbestos cement sheets, which were common materials in post-war construction.

Substructure

The substructure of Atholl houses consists of concrete underbuilding stepped internally, with a damp-proof course (DPC) to prevent moisture ingress. This solid foundation provides stability and durability to the overall structure.

Frame

The frame of the house includes two rolled steel angle (RSA) corner stanchions, eight rolled steel tee (RST) stanchions, two RSA perimeter floor support beams, and five RSA perimeter ties at the first floor and roof level. The frame is protected with a coating of red lead and bituminous paint to prevent corrosion.

External Walls

The external walls are constructed from painted flat steel sheets bolted to the back of stanchion flanges. Horizontal timber fillets are fixed to the flanges of the steel sheets, supporting timber studs lined with horizontal timber boarding and asbestos cement sheets. The back of the steel sheets is protected with red lead and bituminous paint to enhance durability.

Separating Wall

The separating wall between properties consists of flat steel sheets, timber fillets, and studs lined with tongue-and-groove timber boarding and asbestos cement sheets. This construction provides both structural integrity and sound insulation between adjoining homes.

Partitions

Internal partitions are made of timber studs lined with asbestos cement sheets. This construction method was common in post-war houses and provides a lightweight yet sturdy solution for internal walls.

Floors

The ground floor is typically concrete, with the living room featuring T&G boarding on timber battens bedded in concrete. The first floor consists of T&G boarding on timber joists, providing a solid and stable surface for upper-level rooms.

Ceilings

Ceilings in Atholl houses are made of asbestos cement sheets, which were widely used in post-war construction due to their fire-resistant properties.

Roof

The roof structure includes timber purlins and rafters, bituminous felt, and clay tiles. This combination provides a durable and weather-resistant roof that can withstand the UK’s variable climate.

Typical Hazards and Risks

While Atholl houses were designed to be durable and cost-effective, they come with several potential hazards and risks that buyers and investors should be aware of.

Corrosion

One of the most common issues with Atholl houses is corrosion, particularly of the steel stanchions and sheets. Minor corrosion can occur at the bases of stanchions, while moderate corrosion is often found at the edges and rear faces of steel sheets. Corrosion of fixing bolts is also a common issue, which can compromise the structural integrity of the house.

Buckling

Buckling of narrow cover plates is another common problem in Atholl houses. This can occur due to the expansion and contraction of steel sheets over time, leading to gaps and potential water ingress.

Timber Rot and Infestation

Timber components in Atholl houses, such as studs and floor joists, are susceptible to rot and infestation. This is particularly common in areas where moisture can accumulate, such as the roof space of separating walls. Infestation of timber floor joists and boarding can also occur, leading to structural weaknesses.

Asbestos

Asbestos cement sheets were widely used in the construction of Atholl houses, particularly for ceilings and internal partitions. While asbestos is fire-resistant and durable, it poses significant health risks if disturbed. Buyers and investors should be aware of the presence of asbestos and take appropriate measures to manage and mitigate any risks.

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 Atholl houses were built to address the urgent housing needs of the post-war period, some may be considered defective under this Act due to issues such as corrosion, timber rot, and asbestos.

Buyers and investors should conduct thorough inspections and obtain professional surveys to identify any potential defects. Addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the property meets modern standards and complies with the Defective Premises Act.

Inspection Tips for Atholl Houses

Conducting a thorough inspection is essential when considering the purchase of an Atholl house. Here are some key areas to focus on during your inspection:

Exterior

• Check for Corrosion: Inspect the steel stanchions and sheets for signs of corrosion, particularly at the bases and edges. Look for rust, flaking paint, and any areas where the protective coating has deteriorated.
• Examine Cover Plates: Look for buckling or gaps in the narrow cover plates that mask the vertical joints of the steel sheets. These can indicate potential structural issues and water ingress.
• Inspect Roof: Check the condition of the roof tiles or slates, and look for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure the bituminous felt and timber purlins and rafters are in good condition.

Interior

• Check for Timber Rot: Inspect timber studs, floor joists, and boarding for signs of rot or infestation. Pay particular attention to areas where moisture may accumulate, such as the roof space of separating walls.
• Asbestos Management: Identify any asbestos cement sheets used in ceilings and partitions. Ensure they are in good condition and have not been disturbed. If asbestos is present, consider obtaining a professional asbestos survey and management plan.
• Inspect Fixing Bolts: Check the condition of fixing bolts used to secure steel sheets and other components. Corroded bolts can compromise the structural integrity of the house.

Structural Integrity

• Examine Separating Walls: Inspect the separating wall between properties for any signs of damage or deterioration. Ensure the flat steel sheets, timber fillets, and studs are in good condition.
• Check Partitions: Inspect internal partitions for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure the timber studs and asbestos cement sheets are in good condition and have not been compromised.

Maintenance and Renovation Considerations

Maintaining and renovating an Atholl house requires careful consideration of its unique construction and materials. Here are some tips to help you manage and improve your Atholl property:

Addressing Corrosion

Regularly inspect and address any signs of corrosion on steel components. This may involve cleaning and repainting affected areas with a protective coating, such as red lead and bituminous paint. Replacing severely corroded components may be necessary to maintain structural integrity.

Managing Timber Rot and Infestation

Address any sources of moisture that may contribute to timber rot and infestation. This may involve repairing leaks, improving ventilation, and treating affected timber with appropriate preservatives. Replacing severely damaged timber components may be necessary to ensure structural stability.

Asbestos Management

If asbestos is present in your Atholl house, it is essential to manage it safely. Avoid disturbing asbestos cement sheets and consider obtaining a professional asbestos survey and management plan. If renovation work is planned, ensure that any asbestos removal is carried out by licensed professionals.

Roof Maintenance

Regularly inspect and maintain the roof to prevent leaks and water damage. Replace damaged or worn tiles or slates, and ensure the bituminous felt and timber purlins and rafters are in good condition. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Upgrading Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Consider upgrading the insulation and energy efficiency of your Atholl house. This may involve adding insulation to walls, floors, and the roof, as well as installing energy-efficient windows and doors. Improving energy efficiency can help reduce heating costs and improve the overall comfort of your home.

Conclusion

The Atholl 1945 house is a unique and historically significant property type that offers both opportunities and challenges for modern buyers and investors. Understanding the construction details, typical hazards, and maintenance considerations is essential for making informed decisions and ensuring the long-term viability of your 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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