Understanding the Discus House

The Discus house, a unique and intriguing property type, emerged in the 1970s as a product of Discus Research & Method Ltd. These homes, primarily detached and semi-detached bungalows, were designed to address the housing needs of the time, offering a blend of modernity and practicality. As an expert surveyor, I will delve into the various aspects of the Discus house, from its construction characteristics to potential hazards and inspection tips.

Historical Context and Manufacturers

Period of Construction

The Discus house was predominantly built during the 1970s, 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 aimed to provide efficient and cost-effective housing options.

Manufacturers and Designers

Discus Research & Method Ltd, the manufacturer behind these homes, collaborated with various designers to create a property that met the needs of the time. The focus was on creating a durable and functional home that could be constructed rapidly and economically.

Typical Characteristics of the Discus House

Architectural Features

Discus houses are easily identifiable by their distinct architectural features. These properties are typically detached or semi-detached bungalows with a shallow pitch gable roof. The roofs are often covered with concrete interlocking tiles or bituminous felt, providing a robust and weather-resistant covering.

External Walls

The external walls of Discus houses are a combination of render and brick slips. The gable walls are entirely clad with brick slips, which are also returned around the corners, giving the property a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Some variations of these bungalows feature an unequal pitch gable roof on the front elevation, adding to their unique charm.

Internal Structure

Internally, Discus houses are constructed using a volumetric box construction method. This involves a welded steel frame made of hollow box stanchions and beams, which are filled with foam insulation. The frame is then clad with storey-height timber frame infill panels, sheathed externally and internally with Asbestolux sheets. These panels are further clad with brick slips and render, and lined with plasterboard backed with fire-resistant mat.

Potential Hazards and Risks

Asbestos Concerns

One of the primary concerns with Discus houses is the use of Asbestolux in the wall construction. Asbestos, a hazardous material, was commonly used in building materials during the 1970s. It poses significant health risks if disturbed, as the fibres can become airborne and inhaled, leading to serious respiratory conditions.

Structural Integrity

While the welded steel frame provides a robust structure, it is essential to inspect the protective coating and ensure it remains intact. Any damage or corrosion to the steel frame can compromise the structural integrity of the property.

Insulation and Fire Safety

The foam insulation within the hollow box stanchions and beams, along with the fire-resistant mat backing the plasterboard, are crucial for maintaining the property’s thermal efficiency and fire safety. However, it is vital to ensure these materials are in good condition and have not deteriorated over time.

Defective Premises Act and Discus Houses

Classification Under the Act

The Defective Premises Act 1972 aims to ensure that properties are constructed and maintained to a reasonable standard. While Discus houses are not explicitly listed as defective under this act, the presence of asbestos and potential structural issues necessitate thorough inspections and maintenance to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Inspection Tips for Surveyors

Asbestos Inspection

When inspecting a Discus house, it is crucial to identify and assess the presence of Asbestolux sheets in the wall construction. Look for any signs of damage or deterioration, and recommend professional asbestos removal if necessary.

Structural Assessment

Examine the welded steel frame for any signs of corrosion or damage. Pay particular attention to the protective coating and ensure it remains intact. Any compromised areas should be addressed promptly to maintain the structural integrity of the property.

Insulation and Fire Safety

Inspect the foam insulation within the hollow box stanchions and beams, as well as the fire-resistant mat backing the plasterboard. Ensure these materials are in good condition and have not deteriorated over time. Recommend any necessary repairs or replacements to maintain the property’s thermal efficiency and fire safety.

Typical Construction Details

Roof

The roof of a Discus house is typically constructed using timber trusses, chipboard, and interlocking concrete tiles. Some variations may feature a roof cover of bituminous felt. The shallow pitch gable roof design provides a robust and weather-resistant covering.

Walls

The external walls are constructed using storey-height timber frame infill panels, sheathed externally and internally with Asbestolux sheets. These panels are clad with brick slips and render, and lined with plasterboard backed with fire-resistant mat. The gable walls are entirely clad with brick slips, which are also returned around the corners.

Floors

The ground floor construction details are not explicitly known, but it is essential to inspect for any signs of damage or deterioration. The first floor is not applicable, as Discus houses are typically single-storey bungalows.

Main Frame

The main frame of a Discus house is a welded steel frame made of hollow box stanchions and beams, filled with foam insulation. This volumetric box construction method provides a robust and durable structure.

Common Defects in Discus Houses

Asbestos-Related Issues

As previously mentioned, the presence of Asbestolux sheets in the wall construction poses significant health risks if disturbed. It is crucial to identify and address any asbestos-related issues promptly.

Corrosion of Steel Frame

The welded steel frame is susceptible to corrosion if the protective coating is compromised. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure the frame remains in good condition.

Insulation Deterioration

The foam insulation within the hollow box stanchions and beams, as well as the fire-resistant mat backing the plasterboard, can deteriorate over time. It is important to inspect these materials regularly and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements.

Roof and Wall Damage

Inspect the roof and external walls for any signs of damage or deterioration. The concrete interlocking tiles or bituminous felt on the roof, as well as the render and brick slips on the walls, should be in good condition to maintain the property’s weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.

Variants of the Discus House

Roof Variations

Some Discus houses feature a roof cover of bituminous felt instead of concrete interlocking tiles. Additionally, some bungalows have an unequal pitch gable roof on the front elevation, adding to their unique architectural charm.

External Wall Variations

While the typical external wall construction involves a combination of render and brick slips, some variations may feature different cladding materials. It is essential to identify and assess these variations during inspections.

Conclusion

The Discus house, a product of the 1970s, offers a unique blend of modernity and practicality. These detached and semi-detached bungalows, constructed by Discus Research & Method Ltd, feature distinct architectural characteristics and robust construction methods. However, potential hazards such as asbestos and structural issues necessitate thorough inspections and maintenance.

As an expert surveyor, it is crucial to identify and address any asbestos-related concerns, assess the structural integrity of the welded steel frame, and ensure the insulation and fire safety materials are in good condition. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to maintain the property’s safety and compliance with the Defective Premises Act.

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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