Understanding the Quikbild House

The Quikbild house, a notable example of system-built properties in the UK, represents a significant chapter in the history of British housing. Constructed between 1965 and 1980, these homes were part of a broader movement to address housing shortages through innovative building techniques. With approximately 12,000 units built, Quikbild houses are found in various locations across the UK, offering a unique blend of architectural design and construction methodology.

Manufactured by Walter Llewellyn & Sons Ltd and Quikbild Homes Ltd, and designed by R Stanley and L R Pope, these homes are also known by alternative names such as Llewellyn and Llewellyn Shells. They are typically bungalows or two- to three-storey semi-detached and terraced houses. The Quikbild house is characterized by its medium pitch gable or mansard roof, which is covered with tiles, or a flat roof covered with bituminous felt. The external walls are often constructed of brick throughout or to the first floor level, with additional cladding options such as tile hanging, profiled aluminium, plastics sheets, or horizontal timber boarding above.

Typical Characteristics and Hazards

Quikbild houses are known for their distinctive architectural features, which include two- or three-storey feature panels of horizontal timber boarding or plastics weatherboarding between windows. Some dwellings also have horizontal timber boarding or plastics sheet below some ground floor windows, and single-storey flat roof entrance porches or pitched canopies over front doors.

However, like many system-built properties, Quikbild houses come with their own set of potential hazards and risks. Common issues include cracks in brick external walls, minor looseness of wall ties, movement of window sills, and internal surface condensation. Additionally, the breakdown of foam insulation in external wall cavities, corrosion of foil-backing to plasterboard linings, and minor corrosion of bracing straps are also concerns. Inaccurate nailing of plywood sarking is another issue that can affect the structural integrity of these homes.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

When considering the purchase of a Quikbild house, it is crucial to understand whether the property is classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act. This legislation aims to protect homeowners from substandard construction practices that could pose a risk to health and safety. While not all Quikbild houses are automatically deemed defective, potential buyers should conduct thorough inspections to identify any structural or safety issues that may require remediation.

Inspection Tips for Quikbild Houses

Inspecting a Quikbild house requires a keen eye for detail and an understanding of the specific construction techniques used in these properties. Here are some essential tips for conducting a thorough inspection:

1. External Walls: Look for cracks in the brickwork and check for any signs of looseness in wall ties. Pay attention to the condition of the cladding materials, whether they are tile hanging, aluminium, or timber boarding.

2. Window Sills: Examine the window sills for any signs of movement or misalignment, which could indicate underlying structural issues.

3. Insulation: Inspect the external wall cavities for foam insulation breakdown and check for corrosion in the foil-backing of plasterboard linings.

4. Roof and Ceilings: Assess the condition of the roof, including the bituminous felt and tiles. Check for any signs of water ingress or damage to the mineral fibre insulation at ceiling level.

5. Internal Condensation: Look for evidence of internal surface condensation, which can lead to mould growth and other moisture-related problems.

6. Structural Integrity: Evaluate the overall structural integrity of the property, paying particular attention to the accuracy of nailing in plywood sarking and the condition of bracing straps.

Construction Details of Quikbild Houses

Understanding the construction details of Quikbild houses can provide valuable insights into their potential strengths and weaknesses. Here is a breakdown of the typical construction elements:

• Substructure: Quikbild houses are built on concrete strip footings with brick under-building and a damp-proof course (DPC) to prevent moisture ingress.

• External Walls: The platform frame construction features storey-height timber frame panels based on a 4-foot module, cross-braced with metal strapping and sheathed externally with bitumen-impregnated fibreboard. This is overlaid with bituminous felt and directly clad with brick. The walls are lined with foil-backed plasterboard, and mineral fibre insulation is placed between the frame studs.

• Separating Walls: These are timber frame cavity walls lined with three layers of plasterboard, with mineral fibre insulation between the frame studs.

• Partitions: Internal partitions are constructed with timber studs lined with plasterboard.

• Floors: The ground floor is typically concrete, while upper floors consist of plywood on timber joists.

• Ceilings: Ceilings are generally made of plasterboard, with some variants featuring foil-backed plasterboard or plywood.

• Roof: The roof structure comprises timber trusses, bituminous felt, and tiles, with mineral fibre insulation at ceiling level.

Common Defects in Quikbild Houses

Despite their innovative design, Quikbild houses are not immune to defects. Some of the most common issues include:

• Cracks in Brickwork: These can occur due to settlement or thermal movement and may require repointing or structural repairs.

• Wall Tie Looseness: Over time, wall ties can become loose, compromising the stability of the external walls.

• Window Sill Movement: This can be a sign of structural movement and may necessitate realignment or replacement.

• Condensation and Mould: Poor ventilation and insulation can lead to condensation, resulting in mould growth and potential health hazards.

• Insulation Breakdown: Foam insulation in external wall cavities can degrade, reducing thermal efficiency and increasing energy costs.

• Corrosion: Metal components, such as bracing straps and foil-backing, can corrode, affecting the structural integrity and performance of the building.

Variants and Adaptations

Quikbild houses come in various variants, each with unique features and adaptations. Some of these include:

• Concrete Underbuilding: An alternative to the standard brick under-building, providing additional stability and durability.

• Foam Insulation: Used in external wall cavities to enhance thermal performance, though it may be prone to breakdown over time.

• Roof Variations: Options include plywood sarking on timber purlins and mansard roofs, offering different aesthetic and functional benefits.

• Cladding Options: Upper storey external walls may be clad with tile hanging, horizontal timber boarding, or aluminium/plastics sheets on timber battens.

• Ceiling Materials: Variants include foil-backed plasterboard or plywood ceilings, each offering different levels of insulation and fire resistance.

Conclusion

The Quikbild house remains a significant part of the UK’s architectural landscape, offering unique design features and construction techniques. While these homes present certain challenges, such as potential defects and maintenance requirements, they also offer opportunities for customization and improvement. By understanding the typical characteristics, construction details, and common issues associated with Quikbild houses, home buyers and investors can make informed decisions and ensure the long-term safety and value of their property.

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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