0333 444 0154
07904 006 256
enquiries@newmans.com


Tower Blocks

Tower block construction began in the 1950’s with the first tower block in Britain being built, The Lawn in Harlow, Essex. The need for housing influenced the decision for tower block construction and it boomed.

the Lawn, Harlow, Essex
The Lawn, Essex

Tower blocks are constructed usually using three methods; in-situ, Steel frame with infill panel and pre-fabricated panels. In theory all three methods of construction should have provided structures free from structural defect and with stand the test of time. In reality many high rise structures are in urgent need of refurbishment to ensure they do not enter a state of disrepair with the only solution being demolition.

With all three methods of construction there are common structural defects found that are often similar across the country. Cracking is usually evident within the external and internal fabric of the structure and the defects are often linked to one or more of these causes of movement, thermal movement, lack of movement joints and failed wall ties or inadequate wall ties. Poor construction methods during the build phase. Concrete failure as well is a common structural defect found which can be caused by many factors such as oxidisation of the reinforcing steel, the reinforcing steel being too close to the surface of the concrete which again causes oxidisation freeze thaw action and chemical reaction to name but a few.

Trellick Tower, West London
Trellick Tower, West London

Newman’s are approved designers and installers of the Twistfix and Thor Helical repair systems combined with our experience we provide our own specifications for wall tie replacement schemes as well as crack stitching and masonry beams. We are also approved installers for Fosroc and Sika concrete repair mortars and resins, mastic and coatings.

When assessing the requirements for repair to tower blocks you should only use an experienced contractor and Newman’s surveyors and engineers have extensive experience carrying out structural surveys and designing structural repair programmes to reinstate the structural integrity to tower blocks. We have worked closely with many principal contractors and façade installation specialists to provide insurance backed repair schemes prolonging the life of the tower block.

We can also provide rope access surveys and installation on schemes that it isn’t feasible to supply and erect traditional access methods such as tube and clip scaffolding or cradle access.

Related Posts

Enquiry From An Impressed Neighbour

In 2015 we carried out extensive work on this property in South West London. The work included structural repairs, render removal, paint removal and brick restoration comprising both brick refacing and brick tinting.  You can read more about that job here. Last week we received the following in an email enquiry from a neighbour who lived […]

Read more...
Whipps Cross Hospital

Concrete Repair – Whipps Cross Hospital A&E

As part of the ongoing program of works at London’s Whipps Cross Hospital we are carrying out concrete repairs to the balconies outside the A & E department. Damage to concrete, often referred to as “concrete cancer” can be caused by water ingress and its freeze, thaw action, the presence of contaminants, the oxidisation of […]

Read more...
Brick-restoration-sequence

Brick Restoration

As part of an extensive programme of works at London’s Whipps Cross Hospital, Newman’s are carry out brick restoration to a huge area of wall. In our opinion brick is the most visually appealing building material.  Unfortunately due to failed mortar, water ingress and years of exposure to the elements, in particular the freeze thaw […]

Read more...
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us today

Structural Repairs

Newman’s provide a wide range of structural repair services…

Read More...

Concrete Repair

Newman’s also provide concrete investigation and repair services…

Read More...

Brick Restoration

Newman’s also provide brick and stone restoration services…

Read More...

Balcony Repair

We also carry out repair and waterproofing to balconies and walkways…

Read More...