Hertfordshire County Council faced a significant challenge at 6 London Road, where a damp and mould problem had rendered the property uninhabitable.
Barker were selected for their expertise in delivering effective, sustainable design solutions for damp-affected buildings and their experience in conservation-led refurbishment.
The Council required a solution that would not only remove existing damp but also prevent it from returning. At the same time, the works needed to respect the historic character of the property, requiring a sensitive and conservation-minded approach.
The property suffered from failed installations, poor drainage, and insufficient ventilation. The challenge was to rectify these defects while introducing modern, breathable systems that would safeguard the building fabric and protect future occupants.
A traditional procurement route was adopted, with Barker also delivering contract administration to ensure the works were carried out effectively.
Barker designed and specified a range of sympathetic interventions, including lime renders and plaster, a limecrete floor with underfloor heating, and thermally upgraded sash windows. Gutters, downpipes, and underground drainage were refurbished, while ventilation was improved with trickle vents and mechanical systems in kitchens and bathrooms.
The external walls were finished with breathable Keim paint, while interiors used Earthborn Clay Paint for a healthy, vapour-permeable finish. Internally, limestone flags were laid on the ground floor with carpets in the bedrooms, ensuring both durability and comfort.
Delivered by conservation specialists Ekins Builders Ltd, the works successfully eradicated damp issues, restored the building’s integrity, and allowed the tenants to move back in shortly after completion. The property now offers a safe, sustainable, and long-term living environment.
