In this episode of we explore one of the most common but often misunderstood issues in London housing, the effect of shrink–swell clay soils on Victorian terraces.

Through the example of a typical two-storey mid-terrace, we explain how much such a house really weighs, whether clay can “lift” a building, and where the real danger lies. We discuss seasonal shrinkage, tree roots, shallow foundations, and why one house may crack while its neighbour remains unaffected.

With clear analogies and references to scientific guidance, this episode demystifies the phenomenon of clay movement and makes sense of what surveyors see on the ground, movements measured in millimetres but with consequences felt in everyday living.

Welcome to today's podcast, where we delve deeply into a widely misunderstood but crucial topic in residential property surveying: accurately detecting and interpreting dampness in buildings. We'll explore why moisture readings alone can be misleading, what other essential factors must be considered, and how a comprehensive understanding of moisture dynamics can help us avoid costly errors and confusion.

Explore how roof coverings in Britain evolved from thatch and clay to slate, felt, and modern composites. This episode examines the materials, systems, and design choices that shaped roofing practice, including conservation challenges, structural risks, and common survey observations. Ideal for trainee surveyors or anyone keen to understand why roofs fail, how they perform, and what they reveal about the buildings they protect.

This episode explores bitumen and asphalt, two essential materials used in roofing, damp-proofing, and tanking. We trace their geological origins, historical use in ancient and modern construction, and their roles in UK housing. We explain how they’re used in flat roofs, DPCs, and basements, highlight common defects, and look at modern alternatives and sustainability issues. A must-listen for surveyors seeking to better understand these often overlooked but critical waterproofing materials.

In this episode, we trace the evolution of timber as a building material, from primitive shelters shaped with stone tools to its resurgence in modern sustainable construction. We explore how timber’s natural properties, including its grain structure, strength, breathability, and ease of use, have made it a foundational element in buildings across centuries. We look at species relevant to the UK, the rise of engineered timber, and timber’s widespread use in domestic housing, from floor joists and roof structures to doors, stairs, and decorative joinery. We also examine the risks, rot, infestation, fire, and discuss how careful detailing and sustainable sourcing are key to timber’s future. Whether in a Tudor beam or a glulam frame, timber remains one of the most versatile and enduring materials in building history.

In this episode, we explore the history, science, and modern applications of concrete, from ancient Roman innovations to today’s high-rise structures. We discuss the evolution of cement types, the role of reinforcement, common concrete components, and issues like carbonation. We also touch on futuristic possibilities for concrete beyond Earth, making this a comprehensive introduction for surveyors, engineers, and enthusiasts alike.

This episode explores the history, function, and practical impact of mortars and renders in traditional and modern construction. We examine how lime mortar, with its breathability and flexibility, became a cornerstone of historical building techniques, and why it's still vital in conservation today. We break down the key differences between non-hydraulic and hydraulic lime, cement mortars, and hybrid mixes, focusing on their performance, compatibility, and risks. We also explore traditional and modern render types-from Georgian lime renders to pebbledash and silicone systems-and their role in protecting and expressing a building's character. Real-world surveying insights show how incorrect repairs, like cement overlays on lime joints, can damage historic brickwork and what to look out for in the field. We close with a look at modern mortar additives, explaining when they work, where they fall short, and why understanding context is essential for getting it right. A must-listen for surveyors, builders, and anyone passionate about the materials that hold buildings together.