Historical Context and Origins

The SSHA No-Fines house, a product of the Scottish Special Housing Association (SSHA), emerged during the early 1940s, specifically between 1940 and 1941. This period marked a significant phase in the UK’s housing history, driven by the urgent need for rapid and cost-effective housing solutions during and after World War II. The SSHA, a key player in the construction industry, aimed to address the housing shortage by introducing innovative building techniques and materials.

The SSHA No-Fines house, also known as SSHA Cellular Concrete, represents a unique approach to non-traditional housing. Approximately 550 of these houses were constructed, primarily in Scotland, although some examples can be found in other parts of the UK. These houses were designed to be both semi-detached and terraced, catering to the needs of families and individuals during a time of significant social and economic upheaval.

Manufacturers and Designers

The SSHA No-Fines house was both designed and manufactured by the Scottish Special Housing Association. The SSHA was established in 1937 with the primary goal of providing affordable and quality housing to the working-class population. The association’s innovative approach to construction, particularly the use of no-fines concrete, set it apart from traditional building methods of the time.

No-fines concrete, a key material in the construction of these houses, is a type of concrete that omits fine aggregates such as sand. This results in a porous, lightweight material that offers several advantages, including improved thermal insulation and reduced construction costs. The SSHA’s use of this material was a pioneering move that addressed the urgent need for quick and efficient housing solutions.

Typical Characteristics of SSHA No-Fines Houses

Architectural Features

SSHA No-Fines houses are typically two-storey structures, available in both semi-detached and terraced configurations. They feature medium-pitched hipped or gable roofs, which are commonly covered with concrete tiles or slates. The external walls are rendered throughout, giving these houses a distinctive and uniform appearance.

Construction Details

Substructure

The substructure of SSHA No-Fines houses consists of concrete strip footings and brick under-building, providing a stable and durable foundation. A damp-proof course (DPC) is also included to prevent moisture from rising through the structure.

External Walls

The external walls are constructed using 8-inch no-fines concrete, which is then rendered to enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal. The separating walls between adjoining houses are also made of 8-inch no-fines concrete, ensuring structural integrity and sound insulation.

Partitions

Internal partitions within SSHA No-Fines houses are typically made of no-fines concrete or prefabricated plaster panels. These materials offer a balance of strength and ease of construction, contributing to the overall efficiency of the building process.

Floors

The ground floor consists of timber boarding on timber joists, providing a solid and stable surface. The first floor can be either timber boarding on timber joists or concrete, depending on the specific design and construction requirements.

Ceilings

Ceilings in SSHA No-Fines houses are generally made of plasterboard, offering a smooth and clean finish that can be easily decorated.

Roof

The roof structure comprises timber rafters covered with concrete tiles or slates. This combination provides durability and weather resistance, ensuring the longevity of the roof.

Variants

While the standard SSHA No-Fines house features a roof covered with concrete tiles, some variants exist with roofs covered in slates or plain tiles. These variations reflect the adaptability of the design to different aesthetic preferences and local building materials.

Typical Hazards and Risks

Structural Issues

One of the primary concerns with SSHA No-Fines houses is the potential for structural issues related to the use of no-fines concrete. While this material offers several advantages, it can also be prone to certain problems, such as:

• Cracking: No-fines concrete can be susceptible to cracking, particularly if it is exposed to significant temperature fluctuations or moisture ingress. Cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the building and may require remedial work to address.
• Carbonation: Over time, the carbonation process can affect the durability of no-fines concrete. This chemical reaction occurs when carbon dioxide from the air penetrates the concrete, leading to a reduction in its alkalinity and potentially causing corrosion of any embedded steel reinforcement.

Moisture Ingress

Moisture ingress is another common issue in SSHA No-Fines houses. The porous nature of no-fines concrete can make it more susceptible to water penetration, particularly if the external render is damaged or deteriorated. This can lead to problems such as dampness, mould growth, and deterioration of internal finishes.

Thermal Performance

While no-fines concrete offers improved thermal insulation compared to traditional concrete, it may still fall short of modern energy efficiency standards. Homeowners may need to consider additional insulation measures to enhance the thermal performance of their SSHA No-Fines house and reduce energy consumption.

Defective Premises Act and SSHA No-Fines Houses

The Defective Premises Act 1972 is a key piece of legislation in the UK that aims to protect homeowners and tenants from defects in the construction and maintenance of residential properties. 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.

SSHA No-Fines houses are not automatically classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act. However, the potential issues associated with no-fines concrete, such as cracking, carbonation, and moisture ingress, could lead to a property being deemed defective if they are not adequately addressed. It is essential for homeowners and investors to be aware of these risks and to take appropriate measures to ensure the ongoing safety and habitability of their SSHA No-Fines house.

Inspection and Assessment of SSHA No-Fines Houses

Pre-Inspection Preparation

Before conducting an inspection of an SSHA No-Fines house, it is important to gather relevant information about the property, including its construction details, previous maintenance history, and any known issues. This will help to inform the inspection process and ensure that all potential areas of concern are thoroughly assessed.

External Inspection

Roof

Begin the external inspection by examining the roof. Check for any signs of damage or deterioration, such as missing or broken tiles, sagging, or evidence of water ingress. Pay particular attention to the condition of the timber rafters and any visible signs of rot or decay.

Walls

Inspect the external walls for any signs of cracking, particularly around windows and doors. Check the condition of the render and look for any areas where it may be damaged or deteriorated. Assess the overall condition of the no-fines concrete and look for any signs of carbonation or other issues.

Damp-Proof Course

Examine the damp-proof course (DPC) to ensure that it is intact and functioning effectively. Look for any signs of rising damp or moisture ingress, particularly at the base of the walls.

Internal Inspection

Floors

Inspect the ground and first floors for any signs of movement or instability. Check the condition of the timber boarding and joists, and look for any signs of rot or decay. If the first floor is constructed of concrete, assess its condition and look for any signs of cracking or deterioration.

Partitions

Examine the internal partitions for any signs of damage or deterioration. Check the condition of the no-fines concrete or prefabricated plaster panels and look for any signs of cracking or other issues.

Ceilings

Inspect the ceilings for any signs of damage or deterioration. Check the condition of the plasterboard and look for any signs of cracking, sagging, or water ingress.

Moisture and Thermal Performance

Assess the overall moisture levels within the property, paying particular attention to areas that may be prone to dampness or water ingress. Use a moisture meter to check for elevated moisture levels in walls, floors, and ceilings. Additionally, consider the thermal performance of the property and identify any areas where additional insulation may be required to improve energy efficiency.

Typical Defects in SSHA No-Fines Houses

Cracking

As previously mentioned, cracking is a common issue in SSHA No-Fines houses. This can occur in both the external walls and internal partitions, and may be caused by factors such as temperature fluctuations, moisture ingress, or structural movement. It is important to identify and address any cracks promptly to prevent further deterioration and potential structural issues.

Carbonation

Carbonation is another common defect in no-fines concrete. This chemical reaction can lead to a reduction in the alkalinity of the concrete, potentially causing corrosion of any embedded steel reinforcement. It is important to assess the extent of carbonation and take appropriate remedial measures to protect the structural integrity of the property.

Moisture Ingress

Moisture ingress is a significant concern in SSHA No-Fines houses, particularly due to the porous nature of no-fines concrete. This can lead to issues such as dampness, mould growth, and deterioration of internal finishes. It is important to identify and address any sources of moisture ingress, such as damaged render or an ineffective damp-proof course, to prevent further problems.

Thermal Performance

While no-fines concrete offers improved thermal insulation compared to traditional concrete, it may still fall short of modern energy efficiency standards. Homeowners may need to consider additional insulation measures, such as cavity wall insulation or external wall insulation, to enhance the thermal performance of their SSHA No-Fines house and reduce energy consumption.

Maintenance and Repair of SSHA No-Fines Houses

Regular Inspections

Regular inspections are essential to identify and address any potential issues in SSHA No-Fines houses. Homeowners should conduct routine checks of the roof, walls, floors, and internal partitions to identify any signs of damage or deterioration. Prompt action should be taken to address any issues to prevent further problems and ensure the ongoing safety and habitability of the property.

Addressing Cracks

Cracks in no-fines concrete should be promptly addressed to prevent further deterioration and potential structural issues. Small cracks can be repaired using suitable fillers or sealants, while larger cracks may require more extensive remedial work, such as the application of a reinforced render system or the installation of additional structural supports.

Preventing Moisture Ingress

Preventing moisture ingress is crucial to maintaining the integrity of SSHA No-Fines houses. Homeowners should ensure that the external render is in good condition and promptly repair any areas of damage or deterioration. Additionally, the damp-proof course should be regularly inspected and maintained to prevent rising damp.

Enhancing Thermal Performance

To enhance the thermal performance of SSHA No-Fines houses, homeowners may consider additional insulation measures. Cavity wall insulation or external wall insulation can significantly improve the energy efficiency of the property, reducing heating costs and improving comfort levels. It is important to consult with a qualified professional to determine the most appropriate insulation solution for the specific property.

Conclusion

The SSHA No-Fines house represents a unique and innovative approach to non-traditional housing in the UK. While these houses offer several advantages, such as improved thermal insulation and reduced construction costs, they can also be prone to certain issues, such as cracking, carbonation, and moisture ingress. It is essential for homeowners and investors to be aware of these potential risks and to take appropriate measures to ensure the ongoing safety and habitability of their SSHA No-Fines house.

Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and preventative maintenance are key to addressing any potential issues and maintaining the integrity of these properties. By taking a proactive approach to maintenance and repair, homeowners can ensure that their SSHA No-Fines house remains a safe and comfortable place to live for many years to come.

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.

---