Further information on building maintenance

Avoid damp

It is essential that all buildings can manage rainfall properly and are properly ventilated. Historic buildings were originally designed with adequate rainwater management and ventilation, however later interventions can impact upon their ability to function properly. Examples of this could be defective rainwater goods, applying internal and external finishes that are not vapour permeable (e.g. cement renders and mortars, inappropriate insulation), removing chimneys, or blocking up flues and original vents. These are all integral to providing the necessary ventilations and moisture transfer to prevent damp problems.

Use the correct materials

Traditional building materials utilised in Hinckley are timber framed (often concealed) and brick walls, clay tile and slate roofs, and timber windows and doors. In more modern times the use of renders, including cement base products, painted walls, plastic and metal windows, and concrete roof tiles have become more prevalent. The choice of correct materials to maintain or reinstate traditional building performance is critical to a successful repair. Permeable lime based mortars and renders and breathable paints should normally be utilised on buildings of a traditional construction compared to impermeable cement based products, although cement and concrete is often successfully used on buildings not of a traditional construction.

Use the right person

It is always worth asking contractors what experience they have working with particular materials and buildings. Many contractors can be very skilled in working with modern buildings and materials, but haven’t had the appropriate training or experience with traditional buildings. Check to see if any potential contractor is a member of a trade body, federation or accreditation scheme, or is on a specialist  contractor register. Further advice can be obtained from the Borough Council’s Conservation Officer and on the Historic England website (historicengland.org.uk)

Health and safety

Ensure that you carry out any building inspections and maintenance safely. Ladders, lofts and roofs present particular hazards. Safety equipment is needed for some jobs. Do not touch gas or electrical supplies unless you are qualified. If in any doubt about safe access, particularly on roofs and in attics, use a reputable professional builder for inspection work. Simple tools such as binoculars can help you  inspect roofs and other high level items. If in doubt always seek help from a professional. For further advice contact the Health and Safety Executive (hse.gov.uk)

Wildlife

Some buildings can provide a home or habitat for protected species, for which there is a legal requirement to conserve, e.g. bats in roof spaces. It is important that any owner and contractor is aware of the relevant regulations prior to undertaking repairs that may affect any protected species. For more information visit wildlife and habitats (historicengland.org.uk)

Permissions

Generally, like-for-like repairs will not require planning permission or listed building consent, but clarification should always be sought from the Borough Council’s Conservation Officer before commencing any works.

Last updated: 24/01/2024 09:00