When considering a property purchase in the UK, understanding the nuances of different property types is crucial. One such property type that has piqued the interest of many home buyers and investors is the Guildway house. Known for its unique construction and design, the Guildway house offers a fascinating glimpse into the architectural trends of the 1960s. This article delves into the history, construction, and potential risks associated with Guildway houses, providing valuable insights for prospective buyers and investors.

The Origins of Guildway Houses

Guildway houses, also known as Cedar Homes, were manufactured by Guildway Ltd, with designs crafted by the architectural firms Scott, Brownrigg and Turner, and K R Powell. These properties emerged during the 1960s, a period marked by a surge in innovative construction techniques aimed at addressing the post-war housing shortage in the UK. Approximately 3,200 Guildway houses were built during this era, predominantly located in suburban areas across the country.

Design and Construction Characteristics

Guildway houses are easily identifiable by their distinct architectural features. They typically come in two forms: detached bungalows and two-storey semi-detached or terraced houses. The roofs of these properties are either shallow pitch gable roofs covered with concrete tiles or flat roofs covered with bituminous felt. The front and rear external walls are often rendered, with some featuring timber boarding below the windows up to the ground floor window head level. Above this, horizontal timber boarding or tile hanging is common. Gable or flank walls are constructed entirely of brick, providing a robust structural element.

Some Guildway houses also feature vertical timber cover strips at separating walls and flat canopies over the front doors, adding to their unique aesthetic. These design elements not only contribute to the visual appeal of the properties but also play a role in their structural integrity.

Construction Details

The construction of Guildway houses is characterized by a platform frame construction method. This involves storey-height timber frame panels sheathed externally with fibreboard, overlaid with building paper. The front and rear walls are directly clad with rendered plywood up to the ground floor window head level, with tile hanging on timber battens above. The gable walls are clad with brick throughout, providing additional stability.

Internally, the walls are lined with foil-backed plasterboard, with mineral fibre insulation placed between the frame studs. The separating walls feature a timber frame cavity lined with two layers of plasterboard, with mineral fibre insulation in the cavity. Partitions are constructed using timber studs lined with plasterboard.

The ground floor is typically made of concrete, while the first floor consists of plywood on timber joists. Ceilings are lined with plasterboard, with foil-backed plasterboard used in the roof space. The roof itself is constructed using timber trusses, bituminous felt, and concrete tiles, with mineral fibre insulation at ceiling level.

Variants in Construction

While the standard construction of Guildway houses is consistent, there are some variants. For instance, some properties have front and rear external walls directly clad with timber boarding below the ground floor windows. Others feature horizontal timber boarding on the upper storey external walls. Additionally, some roofs are constructed with timber purlins, bituminous felt, and concrete tiles, while others have flat roofs made of plywood panels and bituminous felt. In some cases, the timber frame panels lack fibreboard sheathing, with plywood external sheathing used at the first floor level.

Potential Hazards and Risks

As with any property type, Guildway houses come with their own set of potential hazards and risks. One of the primary concerns is localised wetness and delamination at the bottom edge of plywood cladding. This can lead to structural issues if not addressed promptly. Additionally, localised decay of timber boarding and vertical cover strips is a common issue, often resulting from prolonged exposure to moisture.

Another significant risk is the corrosion of foil-backing to plasterboard linings, which can compromise the insulation and structural integrity of the walls. Gaps in fire stopping are also a concern, as they can pose a safety risk in the event of a fire.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

When assessing the suitability of a Guildway house for purchase, it is essential to consider whether the property is classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act. This legislation aims to protect homeowners from properties that are not fit for habitation due to construction defects. While not all Guildway houses fall under this classification, it is crucial to conduct a thorough inspection to identify any potential issues that may render the property defective.

Inspection Tips for Guildway Houses

For prospective buyers and investors, conducting a detailed inspection of a Guildway house is vital to ensure a sound investment. Here are some key areas to focus on during the inspection:

1. Roof and Cladding: Examine the roof for signs of wear and tear, particularly if it is a flat roof covered with bituminous felt. Check for any localised wetness or delamination in the plywood cladding, as this can indicate potential structural issues.

2. Timber Elements: Inspect the timber boarding and vertical cover strips for signs of decay. Pay close attention to areas that are exposed to moisture, as these are more susceptible to deterioration.

3. Plasterboard Linings: Check the condition of the foil-backed plasterboard linings for any signs of corrosion. This can affect the insulation and overall structural integrity of the walls.

4. Fire Stopping: Ensure that there are no gaps in the fire stopping, as this can pose a significant safety risk. Proper fire stopping is essential to prevent the spread of fire within the property.

5. Insulation: Assess the condition of the mineral fibre insulation, particularly in the roof space and between frame studs. Adequate insulation is crucial for maintaining energy efficiency and comfort within the home.

6. Structural Integrity: Evaluate the overall structural integrity of the property, paying close attention to the condition of the concrete slab foundation and RC edge beams. Any signs of cracking or movement should be investigated further.

Conclusion

Guildway houses offer a unique blend of architectural charm and historical significance, making them an attractive option for home buyers and investors alike. However, as with any property type, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection to identify any potential risks or defects. By understanding the construction characteristics and potential hazards associated with Guildway houses, prospective buyers can make informed decisions and safeguard their 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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