I’m writing this from the point of view of a householder and what I have learned from discussing our problems with experienced builders, architects and surveyors. The property was built in 1924, and one common theme seems to be that … Read more
Materials Most of the older houses in the Oakmount Triangle were built using clay bricks and lime mortar. Modern brick is fired at a much higher temperature than it was possible in the past, and so are much harder and … Read more
The front garden walls on the houses built by John Smith (1911-1926) were of two types. Nearly all had recessed sections and chamferred coping but most of them also had some extra decorative features, ie a dentil course and coping … Read more
Maintenance of timber windows We all know prevention is better than cure, so regular maintenance – treating small instances of rot before it takes over, painting and checking the glazing, can avoid many problems down the road. If the casement … Read more
Pebbledash or Roughcast? Both processes usually involve gravel or shingle rather than whole pebbles such as you might find on the beach. It’s easier to just say stones, but it can be pea shingle or gravel, often including small or … Read more
There is very little mention of driveways in the CAMP, we have included more information and advice in the new Design Guide.. Many houses in the Triangle were built with driveways, some with garages either next to the house or … Read more
Please note: this is for guidance only due the fact that we have been struggling to get definitive information from SCC. Solar Panels There has been confusion in the past as neither solar panels nor EV chargers are explicitly mentioned … Read more
Houses John Smith Style There are very few completely original houses built by John Smith. Here is an example of one of the best preserved showing many original features (6 Westbourne Grove): Hipped clay tile roof Exposed rafter ends Two … Read more
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