Overview of Falcon House

The Falcon House, a distinctive property type from the 1960s, stands as a testament to the era’s innovative construction techniques. Designed by L J A Wilkinson and manufactured by J&J Dean (Contracts) Ltd, these properties are primarily found in various suburban areas across the UK. Known for their unique construction methods and materials, Falcon Houses are a significant part of the UK’s architectural heritage. This article delves into the intricate details of Falcon Houses, providing home buyers and investors with essential information to make informed decisions.

Historical Context and Manufacturing

Period and Location

Falcon Houses were predominantly built during the 1960s, a period marked by rapid urban development and a need for affordable housing solutions. These properties are typically located in suburban areas, where there was ample space for new housing developments. The 1960s saw a surge in the use of system-built properties, which allowed for quicker construction times and cost-effective solutions to the housing shortage.

Manufacturers and Designers

The Falcon House was a collaborative effort between J&J Dean (Contracts) Ltd, the manufacturers, and L J A Wilkinson, the designer. J&J Dean (Contracts) Ltd was known for their expertise in prefabricated construction, while L J A Wilkinson brought innovative design elements to the table. Together, they created a property type that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Typical Characteristics of Falcon Houses

Structural Features

Falcon Houses are typically 2- or 3-storey buildings with a shallow pitch gable roof covered with tiles or bituminous felt. Some variants also feature flat roofs covered with bituminous felt. The front and rear external walls are often made of sprayed texture finish asbestos cement sheets, plywood, or shiplap timber boarding. The gable walls are constructed using wide storey height PRC (Precast Reinforced Concrete) panels with a sprayed textured finish or brick with narrow storey height PRC panels at the ends.

Internal Layout

Internally, Falcon Houses feature large storey height polystyrene insulated PRC panels for separating walls and partitions. The ground floor is typically a PRC slab, while the upper floors consist of large PRC floor panels. Ceilings are usually finished with a sprayed texture to concrete panels, adding to the unique aesthetic of these properties.

Identification Characteristics

Identifying a Falcon House can be straightforward if you know what to look for. Key characteristics include:
– 2- or 3-storey structure
– Shallow pitch gable or flat roof
– Front and rear walls with sprayed texture finish asbestos cement sheets or timber boarding
– Gable walls with wide storey height PRC panels or brick

Typical Hazards and Risks

Asbestos

One of the primary concerns with Falcon Houses is the presence of asbestos, particularly in the walls. Asbestos was commonly used in construction during the 1960s due to its fire-resistant properties. However, it poses significant health risks if disturbed. Asbestolux, a type of asbestos-containing material, is often found in the walls of Falcon Houses.

Structural Integrity

The use of PRC panels, while innovative at the time, can pose long-term durability issues. Over time, these panels can suffer from corrosion of the steel reinforcement, leading to structural weaknesses. It’s crucial to assess the condition of these panels during any property inspection.

Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Falcon Houses were built with polystyrene insulation between the frame studs, which was considered advanced for its time. However, modern insulation standards have evolved, and these properties may not meet current energy efficiency requirements. Upgrading the insulation can be a significant consideration for potential buyers.

Defective Premises Act and Falcon Houses

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. Falcon Houses, given their age and construction methods, may fall under scrutiny for defects. It’s essential to conduct thorough inspections to identify any potential issues that could render the property defective under this Act.

Inspection Guide for Surveyors

Tools and Equipment

When inspecting a Falcon House, surveyors should equip themselves with the following tools:
– Moisture meter
– Thermal imaging camera
– Endoscope for cavity inspections
– Asbestos testing kit
– Structural assessment tools

Inspection Steps

External Inspection

1. Roof: Check for signs of wear and tear on the tiles or bituminous felt. Look for any sagging or water damage, particularly on flat roofs.
2. Walls: Inspect the sprayed texture finish asbestos cement sheets or timber boarding for any signs of damage or deterioration. Pay close attention to the gable walls and PRC panels.
3. Foundation: Examine the PRC slab and edge beams for any cracks or signs of movement.

Internal Inspection

1. Walls and Partitions: Use an endoscope to inspect the condition of the polystyrene insulated PRC panels. Look for any signs of corrosion or structural weakness.
2. Floors: Check the PRC floor panels for any signs of deflection or damage. Ensure that the ground floor slab is level and free from cracks.
3. Ceilings: Inspect the sprayed finish to concrete panels for any signs of water damage or deterioration.

Asbestos Assessment

1. Sampling: If asbestos is suspected, take samples from the walls and send them to a certified laboratory for testing.
2. Condition Assessment: Evaluate the condition of any identified asbestos-containing materials. If they are in good condition and undisturbed, they may not pose an immediate risk. However, if they are damaged or deteriorating, professional removal may be necessary.

Typical Construction Details

Roof

Falcon Houses feature either a shallow pitch gable roof or a flat roof. The gable roofs are covered with tiles or bituminous felt, while the flat roofs are covered with bituminous felt. Some variants may have roofs covered with butyl/neoprene or bituminous felt pre-bonded to Stramit slabs.

Walls

The front and rear external walls are constructed using storey height timber frame panels clad with sprayed texture finish asbestos cement sheets up to the first floor level, with shiplap timber boarding above. The walls are lined with Asbestolux, and polystyrene insulation is placed between the frame studs. The flank walls are made of brick with cavity storey height polystyrene insulated PRC panels.

Floors

The ground floor is typically a PRC slab, while the upper floors consist of large PRC floor panels. These panels provide a solid and durable flooring solution, although they may require inspection for any signs of wear or damage.

Main Frame

The main frame of Falcon Houses is constructed using PRC panels, which provide structural support and stability. These panels are insulated with polystyrene, offering some level of thermal efficiency.

Typical Defects in Falcon Houses

Corrosion of Steel Reinforcement

One of the most common defects in Falcon Houses is the corrosion of the steel reinforcement within the PRC panels. This can lead to structural weaknesses and potential safety hazards. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to address this issue.

Asbestos-Related Issues

As previously mentioned, the presence of asbestos in the walls poses significant health risks if disturbed. It’s essential to assess the condition of any asbestos-containing materials and take appropriate action if necessary.

Insulation and Energy Efficiency

The polystyrene insulation used in Falcon Houses may not meet modern energy efficiency standards. Upgrading the insulation can improve the property’s thermal performance and reduce energy costs.

Water Ingress

Flat roofs, in particular, are prone to water ingress if not properly maintained. Inspecting the roof for any signs of water damage and ensuring proper drainage can help mitigate this issue.

Maintenance and Repair Recommendations

Regular Inspections

Conducting regular inspections is crucial to identify and address any potential issues before they become major problems. Focus on the condition of the PRC panels, roof, and asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos Management

If asbestos is present, it’s essential to manage it properly. This may involve encapsulation, sealing, or professional removal, depending on the condition of the material.

Structural Repairs

Address any signs of corrosion or structural weakness in the PRC panels promptly. This may involve reinforcing the panels or replacing them if necessary.

Insulation Upgrades

Consider upgrading the insulation to meet modern energy efficiency standards. This can improve the property’s thermal performance and reduce energy costs.

Roof Maintenance

Regularly inspect and maintain the roof to prevent water ingress and damage. Ensure proper drainage and address any signs of wear or deterioration.

Conclusion

Falcon Houses, with their unique construction methods and materials, are a significant part of the UK’s architectural heritage. While they offer a distinctive aesthetic and functional design, they also come with certain risks and challenges. Understanding the typical characteristics, hazards, and maintenance requirements of Falcon Houses is crucial for home buyers and investors. By conducting thorough inspections and addressing any potential issues, you can ensure the longevity and safety of these 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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