Overview of the Cornish Flush Panel House

The Cornish Flush Panel house, a distinctive type of system-built property, emerged in the 1960s as a solution to the post-war housing shortage in the UK. These homes were primarily manufactured by Selleck Nichols, a company known for its innovative approach to construction during that era. The Cornish Flush Panel house, also referred to as the Cornish Unit or Selleck Nichols & Williams house, is a notable example of mid-20th-century British architecture.

These properties are typically found in various regions across the UK, with a significant concentration in Cornwall, as the name suggests. They are easily identifiable by their detached bungalow design, medium pitch gable roofs covered with concrete tiles, and external walls rendered throughout with feature panels of horizontal boarding. The gable apexes are often adorned with tile hanging, adding to their unique aesthetic appeal.

Historical Context and Manufacturing

Period of Construction

The Cornish Flush Panel houses were predominantly built during the 1960s, a period marked by a significant demand for affordable and quickly constructed housing solutions. This era saw a surge in the development of system-built properties, which were designed to be assembled rapidly and efficiently to address the housing crisis.

Manufacturers

Selleck Nichols, later known as Selleck Nichols & Williams, was the primary manufacturer of the Cornish Flush Panel houses. The company was renowned for its expertise in producing prefabricated homes that could be assembled on-site with relative ease. Their innovative construction techniques and materials allowed for the rapid production of these homes, making them a popular choice for local authorities and private developers alike.

Typical Characteristics of Cornish Flush Panel Houses

Architectural Features

Cornish Flush Panel houses are characterized by their detached bungalow design, which was a popular choice for suburban developments in the 1960s. The medium pitch gable roofs, covered with concrete tiles, provide a distinctive silhouette that is easily recognizable. The external walls are rendered throughout, with feature panels of horizontal boarding that add visual interest and texture to the façade. The gable apexes are often finished with tile hanging, further enhancing the architectural appeal of these homes.

Construction Details

While specific details about the substructure, external walls, separating walls, partitions, ground floor, first floor, and ceilings of Cornish Flush Panel houses are not well-documented, it is known that these homes were constructed using prefabricated panels. This method allowed for quick assembly on-site, reducing construction time and costs.

Identification Characteristics

To identify a Cornish Flush Panel house, look for the following features:
– Detached bungalow design
– Medium pitch gable roof covered with concrete tiles
– External walls rendered throughout with feature panels of horizontal boarding
– Gable apexes finished with tile hanging

Typical Hazards and Risks

Structural Concerns

One of the primary concerns with Cornish Flush Panel houses is the potential for structural issues, particularly related to the durability of the reinforced concrete used in their construction. Over time, the steel reinforcement within the concrete can corrode, leading to weakening of the structural integrity of the property. This is a common issue in many system-built homes from this era and requires careful inspection and maintenance.

Moisture Ingress

Another common issue with Cornish Flush Panel houses is moisture ingress. The rendered external walls, while providing a degree of weather protection, can develop cracks over time, allowing water to penetrate the structure. This can lead to dampness, mould growth, and deterioration of the building fabric.

Thermal Performance

The thermal performance of Cornish Flush Panel houses may also be a concern. The prefabricated panels used in their construction may not provide adequate insulation, leading to higher energy consumption and heating costs. Retrofitting these homes with modern insulation materials can help improve their energy efficiency.

Defective Premises Act and Cornish Flush Panel Houses

The Defective Premises Act 1972 is a key piece of legislation in the UK that aims to ensure that properties are constructed and maintained to a reasonable standard. Under this Act, a property is considered defective if it is not fit for habitation or if it poses a risk to the health and safety of its occupants.

Cornish Flush Panel houses, like many other system-built homes from the 1960s, may be classified as defective under this Act if they exhibit significant structural issues or other hazards that compromise their habitability. It is essential for potential buyers and investors to conduct thorough inspections and assessments to identify any defects and determine the necessary remedial actions.

Inspection and Assessment of Cornish Flush Panel Houses

Step-by-Step Inspection Guide

When inspecting a Cornish Flush Panel house, it is crucial to follow a systematic approach to identify any potential issues. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you conduct a thorough inspection:

1. External Inspection

• Roof: Check the condition of the concrete tiles on the gable roof. Look for any signs of damage, missing tiles, or moss growth. Inspect the gable apexes for any loose or missing tiles.
• Walls: Examine the rendered external walls for cracks, bulges, or signs of moisture ingress. Pay particular attention to the feature panels of horizontal boarding, as these areas may be more susceptible to damage.
• Windows and Doors: Inspect the condition of the windows and doors, including the frames and seals. Look for any signs of rot, warping, or draughts.

2. Internal Inspection

• Walls and Ceilings: Check for any signs of dampness, mould growth, or cracks in the internal walls and ceilings. Use a moisture meter to detect any hidden moisture issues.
• Floors: Inspect the condition of the ground and first floors. Look for any signs of unevenness, sagging, or damage to the floor coverings.
• Structural Elements: Assess the condition of the main frame and any visible structural elements. Look for signs of corrosion in the steel reinforcement and any other structural defects.

3. Services and Utilities

• Electrical System: Check the condition of the electrical system, including the wiring, sockets, and switches. Ensure that the system complies with current safety standards.
• Plumbing and Heating: Inspect the plumbing and heating systems for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or inefficiency. Check the condition of the boiler and radiators.
• Insulation: Assess the level of insulation in the property. Check the loft space for adequate insulation and consider the potential for retrofitting additional insulation to improve energy efficiency.

Reference Materials for Surveyors

Surveyors inspecting Cornish Flush Panel houses can refer to the following materials for guidance on assessing reinforced concrete durability and addressing common issues:

• Corrosion of Steel in Concrete (BRE Digest 444, Parts 1–3)
• Repair and Maintenance of Reinforced Concrete (BR 254)
• Carbonation Depths in Structural-Quality Concrete (BR 19)

These resources provide valuable information on identifying and addressing corrosion in reinforced concrete, which is a common issue in Cornish Flush Panel houses.

Typical Construction Elements

Roof

The roof of a Cornish Flush Panel house typically features a medium pitch gable design covered with concrete tiles. This design provides a distinctive silhouette and offers a degree of weather protection. However, it is essential to inspect the roof regularly for any signs of damage or wear, as concrete tiles can become cracked or dislodged over time.

Walls

The external walls of Cornish Flush Panel houses are rendered throughout, with feature panels of horizontal boarding. This rendering provides a degree of weather protection, but it can develop cracks over time, allowing moisture to penetrate the structure. Regular maintenance and repairs are necessary to prevent moisture ingress and associated issues.

Floors

The specific details of the ground and first floors in Cornish Flush Panel houses are not well-documented. However, it is essential to inspect the floors for any signs of unevenness, sagging, or damage to the floor coverings. Addressing any issues promptly can help maintain the structural integrity of the property.

Main Frame

The main frame of Cornish Flush Panel houses is constructed using prefabricated panels, which are assembled on-site. The steel reinforcement within the concrete panels can be susceptible to corrosion over time, leading to structural issues. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to identify and address any signs of corrosion.

Typical Defects in Cornish Flush Panel Houses

Corrosion of Steel Reinforcement

One of the most common defects in Cornish Flush Panel houses is the corrosion of the steel reinforcement within the concrete panels. This can lead to weakening of the structural integrity of the property and requires careful inspection and maintenance. Surveyors should refer to the BRE Digest 444 and BR 254 for guidance on assessing and addressing corrosion in reinforced concrete.

Moisture Ingress and Dampness

Moisture ingress is another common issue in Cornish Flush Panel houses. Cracks in the rendered external walls can allow water to penetrate the structure, leading to dampness, mould growth, and deterioration of the building fabric. Regular inspections and repairs are necessary to prevent and address moisture ingress.

Thermal Performance

The thermal performance of Cornish Flush Panel houses may be inadequate due to the construction materials and methods used. Retrofitting these homes with modern insulation materials can help improve their energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

Structural Movement

Structural movement can occur in Cornish Flush Panel houses due to the nature of the prefabricated panels and the potential for corrosion in the steel reinforcement. Regular inspections are necessary to identify any signs of structural movement and address any issues promptly.

Conclusion

The Cornish Flush Panel house is a distinctive and historically significant type of system-built property that emerged in the 1960s. While these homes offer unique architectural features and a rapid construction method, they also come with potential hazards and risks that require careful inspection and maintenance.

As a potential buyer or investor, it is essential to conduct thorough inspections and assessments of Cornish Flush Panel houses to identify any defects and determine the necessary remedial actions. By following a systematic approach and referring to relevant guidance materials, you can ensure that these properties are safe, habitable, and maintain their value over time.

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.

---