Articles

Project Overview

 

The building comprises a commercial unit at ground level, with office and residential accommodations above. The primary objective was to resolve water ingress problems identified along an exposed party wall—an issue that emerged after the demolition of an adjacent property. Previously, this neighbouring structure provided protection against external elements. However, when the developer of the neighbouring site entered liquidation during the Covid pandemic, the plot remained undeveloped, resulting in our client’s party wall becoming exposed.

 

Initial Inspection and Risk Assessment

The investigation revealed clear evidence of moisture penetration. Furthermore, multiple sections of the decorative masonry—particularly around the window surrounds on the upper floors—were identified as defective. Situated above a busy high street, these elements had become unstable, thereby posing a considerable safety risk to both pedestrians and vehicles. In view of the immediate threat, SHW promptly provided the client with a thorough report detailing the urgency of the situation and the potential for falling masonry to result in serious injury or property damage.

 

Expanded Scope of Works

In response to these findings, the client elected to broaden SHW’s role to encompass overall management of the required remedial works. This expanded scope was integrated into a comprehensive programme of external repairs and conservation efforts. In close collaboration with specialist contractors and tradespeople skilled in the conservation of heritage assets , SHW devised a detailed repair scheme. The scope of this work included rendering, Helifix stitching for structural crack stabilisation, window refurbishment, and redecoration.

 

Repair and Conservation Approach

The damaged decorative masonry was thoroughly documented, carefully removed and restored on site in accordance with conservation methods appropriate for a listed building. These measures ensured that the repairs were compatible with the original historic fabric of the property and preserved its architectural integrity.

 

Completion and Outcome

The project has reached successful completion. The building is now safe from falling material, with all previously loose or defective masonry removed and new, properly secured render applied. The external envelope is now watertight, repaired sections have been integrated seamlessly with the existing architecture, and the overall visual quality of the façade has been significantly improved.