Windows, Doors & Building Fabric
The external fabric of a building acts as its primary shield against the elements, and windows and doors form a crucial part of this protective envelope. When you are arranging a property survey, assessing the condition of these components is vital. Not only do they impact the security and energy efficiency of your potential new home, but repairing or replacing them across an entire house can also be a significant expense.
Assessing the External Envelope
In the Gloucester area, the housing stock ranges from modern estates with standard uPVC fittings to historic period properties featuring traditional timber sash windows. Each material presents its own set of common defects. Timber frames are highly susceptible to wet rot if the external paintwork has been neglected, particularly on the vulnerable lower sills. Conversely, older double glazed units frequently suffer from failed seals, leading to unsightly condensation trapped between the panes of glass that obstructs the view and reduces thermal efficiency.
Another critical area a residential surveyor will examine is the masonry directly above the window and door openings. If the structural lintels supporting the brickwork begin to fail or corrode, it can cause stepped diagonal cracking in the walls, signalling a much more serious underlying defect.
Expert Inspection and Advice
A thorough building condition survey takes the guesswork out of evaluating these essential components. During an RICS Level 2 Home Survey, we inspect the general state of the building fabric, checking windows and doors to ensure they operate correctly and fit snugly within their frames. We also look for evidence of necessary building regulation compliance for recent installations, to ensure the work meets modern safety and energy standards.
If we discover that failing lintels or significant movement around the openings has compromised the stability of the external walls, we may advise commissioning a Structural Engineer Report to detail the exact structural reinforcements required. Upgrading all the windows and doors in a property, or repairing structural masonry, requires a considerable budget. By obtaining an RICS valuation, you can clearly understand how these necessary repair costs affect the current market value of the home, allowing you to proceed with your purchase fully informed.