BGS Geology Viewer
https://geologyviewer.bgs.ac.uk

Burst water main ‘probable’ cause of Surrey sinkhole, geologists say
https://www.thechemicalengineer.com/news/burst-water-main-probable-cause-of-surrey-sinkhole-geologists-say

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The Godstone sinkhole incident has brought attention to the growing concern of ground collapses in the UK.

The sinkhole suddenly appeared on a road near residential properties, forcing local residents to evacuate and seek temporary accommodation.

As engineers assessed the situation, it became clear that the collapse might have been caused by heavy rainfall, water leakage, or gradual erosion of the underlying soil.

Godstone, located in Surrey, has a geological history marked by chalk and sandstone formations, which are more susceptible to such ground collapses when water percolates through, dissolving the material over time.

One possible contributor to the collapse is the historical mining in the region. Godstone and its surroundings were known for quarrying “rate stone,” a type of building material.

While experts doubt the old mines are directly responsible, the complex underground structure of the area complicates the situation. Engineers are currently calculating how much Type 1 aggregate is needed to fill the void and stabilize the ground.

UK Sinkhole Hotspots

Sinkholes are common in the UK, particularly in areas with soluble bedrock such as chalk, limestone, and gypsum. The most vulnerable regions include:

South East England:
Including Surrey, Kent, and Sussex, where chalk and greensand formations are prevalent. The Godstone sinkhole falls into this category.

Yorkshire:
Known for its limestone landscape, Yorkshire has experienced significant sinkhole events, particularly around the Dales.

South Wales:
The carboniferous limestone regions here are prone to sinkholes, often exacerbated by heavy rainfall.

Mendip Hills (Somerset):
The karst landscape here is susceptible to ground collapses, especially during wet seasons.
Climate change, with increased rainfall and extreme weather events, continues to heighten the risk of sinkholes across these vulnerable regions.

Open Water Heat Pump system at Kingston Heights

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Ever wonder why the government pushes green tech on you but bails when it doesn’t suit them? Meet the quiet scandal at the Houses of Parliament: they’ve ditched Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) after a hyped-up eco-push—and they’re hoping you won’t notice.

Why? ASHPs flopped hard. In London’s chilly winters, they barely hit a COP of 2.5, humming at 40-60 decibels—too noisy for Westminster’s peace. Bulky units clashed with the Gothic vibe, and they couldn’t heat the Palace’s massive 10-15 MW demand. So, MPs scrapped them, quietly sliding back to gas boilers while preaching Net Zero to the rest of us. Hypocrisy much?

But here’s the kicker: there’s a better fix they’re ignoring—Water Source Heat Pumps (WSHPs) from the Thames, flowing right past their doorstep.

Unlike ASHPs, WSHPs tap the river’s steady 7-10°C warmth (solar-heated, not tidal-made), delivering a COP of 4-6—way more efficient. The Thames’ tidal flow (65 m³/s) keeps the heat coming, no stagnation, no fuss.

Kingston’s already heating homes this way, saving 500 tonnes of CO₂ yearly, and South Westminster’s eyeing a £1B low-carbon network using Thames heat. Parliament could pull 10 MW with just 800 litres/second, a drop in the river’s bucket, capped at a 3°C cooling limit to protect fish.

So why stick to gas? MPs won’t say. This video dives into the U-turn, exposes the double standard, and pitches a green Thames solution they won’t share. Like, comment, and subscribe—should Parliament lead by example or keep dodging their own rules? Let’s call it out!

More From Skillbuilder – How Does A Heatpump Work?

Couple who bought £32m moth-infested mansion
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/02/10/couple-32m-moth-infested-mansion-london-high-court/
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Pros and Cons of Eco Wool Insulation

Eco wool insulation, made from natural sheep’s wool, has gained popularity for its sustainable, non-toxic properties.
While it offers several advantages, it also comes with potential drawbacks that homeowners should consider.

? PROS

Excellent Insulation:
Wool provides superior thermal and acoustic insulation. It regulates indoor temperatures by trapping air, keeping homes warm in winter and cool in summer.

Eco-Friendly:
As a renewable, biodegradable material, wool insulation has a low carbon footprint, making it an environmentally responsible choice.

Moisture Control:
Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp. It releases the moisture when conditions dry, preventing mould growth.

Fire Resistance:
Naturally flame-retardant, wool has a high ignition point and does not release toxic fumes when exposed to heat.

Air Purification:
Wool can absorb indoor pollutants, such as formaldehyde, improving indoor air quality.

⚠️ CONS

Pest Attraction:
Untreated wool is highly attractive to moths and other insects, which can lead to severe infestations, as seen in the Notting Hill case.

Higher Cost:
Wool insulation tends to be more expensive than synthetic alternatives like fibreglass, both in material and installation costs.

Requires Treatment:
To prevent moth infestations, wool insulation must be treated with insecticides like boron, which some may find contradictory to its eco-friendly appeal.

Limited Availability:
Depending on the region, eco wool insulation may be harder to source compared to conventional insulation materials.

More From Skillbuilder – Stone Wool Insulation

Oldfield Forge is a renowned blacksmithing workshop in Herefordshire, offering hands-on experiences that bring the ancient craft of blacksmithing to life.

Set in the beautiful English countryside, it provides a unique opportunity for visitors to step into the shoes of a traditional blacksmith and create their own hand-forged items.

Whether crafting Viking axes, swords, knives, or delicate rings, participants learn age-old techniques under the guidance of skilled blacksmiths.

Beyond the hands-on experiences, the forge is dedicated to preserving traditional blacksmithing skills while making them accessible to modern audiences.

Oldfield Forge provides an unforgettable blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and creativity, ensuring visitors leave with newfound skills and a handmade keepsake.

More From Skillbuilder – Skilled Craftsmen Of Hereford

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Oldfield Forge Experiences

https://www.oldfieldforge.co.uk/experiences

Knife Making: Embark on a hands-on journey into traditional knife-making, perfect for enthusiasts and chefs seeking a personal touch to their tools.

Sword Making: Collaborate with a partner to design and forge a custom sword over a two-day workshop, guided by skilled blacksmiths.

Axe Making & Throwing: Craft your own Scandinavian Bearded Axe and test it at the on-site axe-throwing lanes in this immersive experience.

Dagger Making For Two: A workshop for two participants to design and create a decorative dagger together, suitable for beginners and experienced individuals alike.

Pocket Knife Making: Challenge your creativity by forging your own pocket knife in a hands-on workshop, resulting in a functional tool or a display piece.

Harry Potter Wand Making: An immersive workshop where participants can craft their own wizarding wand, inspired by the Harry Potter series.

Cu-Mai Knife Making: A two-day workshop offering the opportunity to create a unique pattern-welded knife using Cu-Mai, combining layers of copper and carbon steel.

Damascus Knife Making: Design and forge a Damascus steel knife in this exclusive two-day crafting experience.

Pizza Axe Making: Craft a hand-forged pizza-cutting axe, a unique tool designed specifically for slicing through pizzas with precision.

Blacksmithing & Cider Tasting Package: Combine forging your own bottle opener with a tour of Weston’s Cider in this three-hour experience.

Poppy Making: Craft your own poppy under the guidance of skilled blacksmiths in this creative workshop.

Ring Making For Two: Design and create personalized rings in a day-long session, ideal for couples celebrating special occasions.

Knife Handling: A one-day package focused on handcrafting and fitting a wooden handle to a previously forged knife.

Hammer Making: Craft a personalized hammer at Oldfield forge in this immersive workshop, experiencing the rewarding craft of blacksmithing.

Toasting Fork Making: Forge a functional toasting fork, perfect for home at the BBQ or campfire.

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? Visit Oldfield Forge ?

https://www.oldfieldforge.co.uk

https://www.instagram.com/oldfieldforge

https://www.facebook.com/oldfieldforge

https://www.tiktok.com/@oldfieldforge

People spend thousands trying to cure this problem – Damp chimney!

Summary

? Damp chimneys are a persistent issue – Many people struggle with moisture in their chimneys even after spending significant money on repairs.

? Old fireplaces helped keep chimneys dry – In the past, fires burned daily, preventing moisture build-up. When fireplaces were sealed, problems damp chimney related issues arose.

? Ventilation is crucial but tricky – Air bricks are recommended to maintain airflow, but warm indoor air can carry moisture into the chimney.

❄️ Condensation forms in cold spots – Moist air rising in the chimney condenses when it hits the cold bricks above the roofline, causing damp patches.

? Misdiagnosis leads to unnecessary repairs – Many homeowners spend money on flashing, repointing, or capping without solving the underlying issue.

? Moisture inside the house contributes – High indoor humidity (up to 60%) can exacerbate chimney dampness, leading to persistent problems.

? Simple humidity checks can help – Using inexpensive humidity sensors can identify if excessive moisture in the house is a contributing factor.

? Solutions before major repairs – Reduce indoor humidity using dehumidifiers, extractor fans, or increased ventilation before making structural changes.

? Chimney sweeping and reconfiguring ventilation – Removing built-up soot and salts can help, along with placing air bricks in external walls rather than inside the house.

⚠️ Avoid warm indoor air ventilating the chimney – This can worsen condensation, making the problem harder to fix.

Insights Based on Numbers

£1,000 – Estimated cost of replacing chimney flashing, which may not solve the issue.
60%+ humidity – If indoor humidity is above this level, condensation-related dampness becomes more likely.

£5-£20 – Cost of humidity sensors, an inexpensive way to diagnose moisture problems before making expensive repairs.

Buy A Humidity Sensor Here

4 Roofers Couldn’t Solve This Damp Chimney!

DAMP PLAYLIST
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvRh7uimDQfdqupZupg580dzmvLBEDSBj&si=RE0bvdDunvt2uAQB IT’S A GOLD MINE!
________________________
Just in case you missed it:

The BBC Panorama documentary Britain’s Mouldy Homes
bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0027nqd/panorama-britains-mouldy-homes
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Top 3 Habits That Cause Black Mould (And How to Avoid Them)

1️⃣ Drying Clothes Indoors Without Ventilation

➡ Why? Wet clothes release moisture into the air, increasing humidity and encouraging mould growth, especially in poorly ventilated rooms.

✅ Fix: Dry clothes outside, use a tumble dryer vented outdoors, or open windows and use a dehumidifier when drying indoors.

2️⃣ Blocking or Not Using Ventilation

➡ Why? Poor airflow traps moisture inside, allowing condensation to build up on walls and ceilings, creating the perfect conditions for mould.

✅ Fix: Keep trickle vents open, use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and open windows regularly to improve airflow.

3️⃣ Not Heating Your Home Properly

➡ Why? Cold surfaces attract condensation, leading to damp walls and mould growth.

✅ Fix: Maintain a consistent temperature, even at a low level, to prevent cold spots where moisture can settle.

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BBC Panorama: Britain’s Mouldy Homes

The BBC Panorama documentary Britain’s Mouldy Homes, aired on 10 February 2025, investigates the worsening problem of dampness and mould in UK housing. The programme exposes tenants’ shocking conditions, particularly in social housing and private rentals, where black mould has become a serious health hazard.

The documentary highlights the struggles of families, elderly residents, and vulnerable individuals who have repeatedly complained to landlords and housing associations only to be ignored. Some have experienced severe health issues, including respiratory infections and asthma, as a direct result of prolonged exposure to mouldy conditions. The investigation also sheds light on the legal failures and loopholes that allow landlords to delay repairs, leaving tenants trapped in dangerous environments.

A key focus of the programme is Awaab’s Law, named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who tragically died in 2020 due to exposure to black mould in his family’s home. Despite the law being passed in 2023, Panorama reveals that enforcement has been slow, and many tenants continue to suffer due to inadequate action from housing providers.

Experts featured in the documentary explain the causes of persistent dampness and mould, from poor ventilation and insulation to structural defects. They also criticise government policies that have failed to hold landlords accountable. While some housing providers claim they are working to address the issue, the programme exposes systemic neglect, with many homes still unfit for habitation.

Britain’s Mouldy Homes serve as a wake-up call, urging authorities to take immediate action. It reinforces the need for stronger tenant protections, better regulation of landlords, and increased investment in maintaining and upgrading the UK’s housing stock.

Try This Before You Spend Money On Damp Problems

EcoTherm Eco-Cavity Full Fill ?
https://www.ecotherm.co.uk/gb/en/products/wall-systems/eco-cavity-full-fill/
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Ecotherm Eco-Cavity Full Fill: High-Performance Cavity Wall Insulation with No Damp Risk

When it comes to cavity wall insulation, Ecotherm Eco-Cavity Full Fill stands out as a game-changer. Designed to provide exceptional thermal performance while eliminating the risk of damp transfer, this insulation solution is a smart choice for new builds and refurbishments.

Why Choose Ecotherm Eco-Cavity Full Fill?

Unlike traditional insulation materials that can absorb moisture, leading to damp and structural issues, Eco-Cavity Full Fill features a closed-cell rigid PIR (polyisocyanurate) core. This advanced design not only ensures excellent insulation but also acts as a moisture barrier, preventing water from penetrating through the cavity.

Key Benefits:

✅ No Damp Risk – The material repels moisture, keeping internal walls dry and protected.
✅ Superior Thermal Efficiency – Achieves low U-values with minimal thickness, helping to reduce energy costs.
✅ Space-Saving Solution – Allows for a slimmer wall build-up while maintaining high insulation performance.
✅ Lightweight & Easy to Install – Prefabricated boards fit seamlessly into cavity walls without sagging.
✅ Long-Term Durability – Maintains insulation performance for the lifetime of the building.

How It Works

Installed as a full-fill solution, Eco-Cavity PIR boards fit neatly between inner and outer masonry leaves, forming a continuous layer of insulation without leaving air gaps. This optimises energy efficiency and prevents cold bridging—an issue commonly associated with partial-fill insulation systems.

For those looking to future-proof their homes against heat loss and damp risk, Ecotherm Eco-Cavity Full Fill delivers a reliable, cost-effective, and high-performance solution.

More From Skillbuilder – Ecotherm Ecoliner

How To Fix Ceiling Holes – Causes, Repair & Prevention

SHOPPING LINKS

Faithfull Plasterers Trowel
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Refina Plastering Brush
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Soudal Champagne Gap Filler Expanding Foam
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Cotton Dust Sheets
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Summary – Fix Ceiling Holes

Causes of Ceiling Holes – Holes can occur due to plumbing leaks, accidental footfalls, or ageing ceilings. The video demonstrates various repair techniques.

Electrician-Caused Holes – Often, electricians cut into ceilings for wiring but leave them unrepaired. These must be carefully fixed without damaging cables.

Choosing the Right Screws – Short, corrosion-proof screws are preferred to avoid hitting electrical cables and ensure stability.

Marking Joist Positions – Before placing plasterboard, marking joist positions helps in securely screwing the patch into place.

Foam Application & Drying – Expanding foam fills gaps; water spraying accelerates curing and improves adhesion.

Trimming Foam Before Plastering – Excess foam should be cut back to avoid rough patches in the plaster finish.

Scrim Tape vs. Plaster – Scrim tape can sometimes cause ghosting, so joint-filling compounds or multi-finish plaster are recommended for a smooth finish.

Lath & Plaster Ceilings – These older ceilings can detach over time. Applying diluted PVA helps rebind them and prevents sudden collapses.

Preventing Ceiling Collapse – Pouring a PVA mixture over old plaster from above (if accessible) helps to reinforce weak sections and preserve decorative mouldings.

Insights Based on Numbers – Fix Ceiling Holes

▶ 3:1 PVA to Water Ratio – A mix of three parts water to one part PVA can be poured over old lath-and-plaster ceilings to strengthen them.

▶ Short Screws are Essential to fix ceiling holes, Longer screws risk piercing electrical cables, leading to extensive repairs.

▶ Multiple Coats of Paint & Plaster – Applying two coats ensures a polished, seamless ceiling finish.

More From Skillbuilder – How To Plasterboard A Ceiling

London Homes – What is a Mews House?

Newsletter ▶ https://skill-builder.uk/signup ◀

What is a Mews House and Why do They Remain Popular?
https://plazaestates.co.uk/buying/what-is-a-mews-house

Mews houses for sale ?
https://www.onthemarket.com/for-sale/mews/london

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The Strange Origin of These Quirky London Homes

Tucked away behind some of London’s most prestigious streets, mews houses are a fascinating slice of the city’s architectural history. Once simple stables for horses and carriage houses for the wealthy, these unassuming backstreets have been transformed into some of the most desirable and expensive London homes. But how did these former working buildings become multi-million-pound residences?

Originally built in the 18th and 19th centuries, mews houses were designed to accommodate horses, carriages, and the servants who managed them. They sat discreetly behind grand townhouses, allowing the wealthy to keep their transportation out of sight.

Over time, as horses were replaced by motorcars and domestic service declined, these buildings lost their original purpose. Many were abandoned or used as garages and storage spaces—until their potential as residential properties was realised.

Fast forward to today, and these once-humble stables have been transformed into some of the most exclusive London homes. Their secluded, traffic-free streets make them highly sought after, offering a rare mix of privacy, charm, and prime central locations. But with price tags often exceeding £3 million, they’re a far cry from their modest origins.

In this video, we explore the history of London’s mews houses, uncovering their hidden past and the quirks that make them so unique. From cobbled streets to beautifully renovated interiors, we’ll examine why these former stables have become some of the most desirable addresses in the city. Would you pay millions to live in a converted stable? Let us know in the comments!

?? Subscribe for more fascinating insights into London’s hidden architecture and history!

Ask Skill Builder
skill-builder.uk/send

Should you spend money on double glazing or a holiday?

Roger asks as he delves into the practical and financial considerations of replacing single-glazed windows with double-glazing.

Roger discusses the challenges of maintaining single-glazed sash windows, such as drafts, rattling, and the frequent need for painting and sanding.

While double glazing offers improved draft-proofing and comfort, Roger points out potential downsides, including condensation issues and the risk of sealed units misting up, leading to costly repairs.

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◾ Summary

?️ Single vs. Double Glazing: The video discusses the maintenance challenges of single-glazed sash windows, their aesthetic impact, and the pros and cons of replacing them with double-glazed windows.

? Cost Analysis: Highlights government data showing potential savings of around £100 annually on heating bills with double-glazing, but questions if the investment (~£10,000) is financially worthwhile over the long term.

? Comfort Trade-offs: While double glazing improves draft-proofing and comfort, it can lead to issues like condensation and misting, requiring additional maintenance.

? Alternative Investments: Investing the same money in financial products like an ISA could yield similar returns over time without the upfront cost of window replacement.

?️ Practical Tips: Simple measures like using heavy curtains and optimizing natural sunlight can significantly reduce heat loss, offering an effective, low-cost alternative to double glazing.

◾ Compared to other insulation measures:

Loft insulation can save up to 30% of heat loss, making it a more effective solution for overall energy efficiency.

Cavity wall insulation and floor insulation also provide significant benefits, often contributing to a more considerable reduction in energy consumption compared to window replacement alone.

◾ Insights Based on Numbers

£100/year is the estimated savings with double-glazing, which may rise with increasing fuel prices.

Based on current savings, a £10,000 investment for double glazing may take over 10 years to recoup.

Windows account for 18% of heat loss, but double glazing only reduces it to approximately 10%.

Home Heat Loss

ThermaSkirt H₂O from DiscreteHeat
go.skill-builder.uk/thermaskirt

ThermaSkirt H₂O is an energy-efficient infrared radiant heating system cleverly designed to look like a traditional skirting board.

Combining 2 elements in one will save you installation costs and valuable wall and floor space, improve the aesthetics of your room and reduce your energy bills.

Available in various styles and colours, ThermaSkirt is the ideal heating solution for both new build and renovation projects.

@thermaskirt

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Innovative Radiator Design: Combines skirting boards with radiators, offering both wet and electrical systems. It seamlessly integrates into spaces while solving aesthetic issues.

Low-Temperature Efficiency: Performs well even with low-temperature systems, such as heat pumps, ensuring effective heating at temperatures as low as 40°C.

Space Optimization: By replacing traditional radiators with skirting boards, rooms gain more usable space without compromising heating efficiency.

Retrofit-Friendly: Easier to install than underfloor heating, offers a sleek alternative for retrofitting homes, with aluminium extrusion and oval pipes for superior heat transfer.

Flexibility and Customization: Designed to adapt to unique spaces, including curved and angled bay windows, with custom rolling and flexible connectors.

Simplified Installation: Thermaskirt uses a push-fit system, eliminating the need for hot works and ensuring easy installation.

Versatile Heat Control: Compatible with digital thermostats and manifolds, allowing centralized control for multi-room setups.

Precision Engineering: Includes features like foil liners to reduce heat loss and silicone grease for smooth installation.

Ease of Maintenance: Allows for easy removal and reinstallation, accommodating redecorations and ensuring longevity.

✅ Durability and Aesthetic: Resistant to UV and heat damage, maintains its appearance over time, making it a durable and attractive heating solution.

Which Home Heating System Is Best For You?

ThermoPro TP49 Humidity Meter
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Stormdry Masonry Waterproofing Cream
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https://youtu.be/Y-kQbhaP-nI

https://youtu.be/-eq5zNWnO8o

The Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency
ciga.co.uk
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Cavity Wall Insulation: The Ugly Truth!

Introduction to Cavity Wall Insulation: Roger Bisby explains the concept of cavity wall insulation, where insulation materials are injected into the building after construction. The video sheds light on the benefits and potential issues, including dampness and mould.

Causes of Damp and Moisture Problems: Moisture issues can arise when insulation disrupts the air circulation within cavities, leading to damp patches, especially in poorly ventilated areas.

Cavity Wall Construction History: The video outlines the evolution of wall construction, from solid walls to cavity walls, to combat moisture infiltration.

Ventilation and Humidity Control: Proper ventilation is emphasised to reduce humidity levels. Tools like humidity sensors and dehumidifiers can help maintain optimal indoor conditions.

The Role of Storm Dry Coating: Storm Dry, a protective coating, is suggested as an effective remedy for damp issues. It helps seal walls against rain while allowing existing moisture to escape.

Addressing Insulation Voids and Rodents: Voids in insulation can lead to cold spots and dampness. Proper sealing is critical to prevent issues like rodent infestations.

✅ Maintenance Tips: Regular inspections and maintenance of pointing and gutters can prevent common problems associated with cavity wall insulation.

More From Skillbuilder – Cavity Wall Insulation

Winchester From Prehistory to the Present
https://amzn.to/42dUdxC

The History of England’s Cathedrals
https://amzn.to/4g1lQNE

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The Crazy 6-Year Mission to Save Winchester Cathedral

Summary

Building on Unstable Ground: The medieval Winchester Cathedral was constructed on peat, a poor foundation choice due to its proximity to the royal palace and river Itchen, which eased material transport. Builders used elm logs to create a raft-like base.

Rotten Foundations: Water fluctuations caused elm logs to rot over centuries, threatening structural collapse. Cracks appeared, making immediate intervention critical.

Diving Innovation: Engineer Francis Fox proposed underwater reconstruction, hiring diver William Walker, who worked in near-complete darkness for six years to stabilize the cathedral.

Monumental Effort: Walker placed 900,000 bricks, 114,900 concrete blocks, and 25,800 cement bags under the foundation while enduring harsh conditions.

Dedication Beyond Work: Walker commuted 65 miles weekly to see his family, showcasing unwavering commitment.

Recognition and Legacy: Despite heroic efforts, Walker’s contributions received limited recognition. A statue in his honour was misattributed initially, further highlighting his underappreciation.

Tourism and Pilgrimage: Cathedrals functioned as religious and economic hubs, attracting pilgrims with relics to fund maintenance. Winchester once stood as England’s capital and a pilgrimage site.

Fire Risks: Historical and modern threats, like fire hazards, emphasise the vigilance required to preserve such architectural marvels.

________________________

? OTHER LINKS

Winchester Cathedral website
https://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

@WinchesterCathedralTV on YouTube

More From Skillbuilder – Lost Builders Of The Middle Ages

ALL SKILL BUILDER VIDEOs ?
https://www.youtube.com/@SkillBuilder/videos

@stanleytools Hammer Tacker
https://amzn.to/3C72I2R
__________________________________

Should You Insulate Under a Suspended Wooden Floor?

Insulating under a suspended wooden floor is a practical solution to enhance the thermal efficiency of your home. While some argue against it due to concerns about ventilation and moisture, proper installation can deliver significant benefits without these drawbacks.

Benefits of Insulation

The most immediate advantage of underfloor insulation is the warmth it brings to your living space. Homeowners often notice a dramatic difference on the very day of installation. Floors feel noticeably warmer, drafts significantly reduce, and overall comfort improves. This is particularly important in older homes with wooden floors that can be prone to air leakage.

Materials and Techniques

There are various materials suitable for insulation, including rock wool and polystyrene. Rock wool is popular due to its fire-resistant properties and ease of use. It can be secured between floor joists using netting or straps. For homes with limited crawl space, insulation can be fed through gaps in the floorboards by removing a few boards and strategically placing the material.

Addressing Ventilation and Moisture

One common concern is that insulation might trap moisture, potentially causing dampness. However, as long as the underfloor area is well-ventilated, this is unlikely to be a problem. Air circulation ensures that any moisture passing through the insulation is removed naturally. It’s crucial to avoid adding vapour barriers under the insulation, as they can interfere with this process and may inadvertently cause more harm than good.

Long-Term Value

The initial investment in underfloor insulation is modest compared to the long-term benefits. Besides improving thermal comfort, it leads to energy savings year after year, making it a cost-effective upgrade with a lifespan of 20–40 years.

Insulating under a suspended wooden floor can transform your home’s comfort and energy efficiency with proper installation.

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Suspended Wooden Floor Insulation – What You Need To Know

?️ Instant Warmth: Insulating under suspended wooden floors significantly improves the warmth of the floor and the overall house, with noticeable effects on the same day.

? Reduced Drafts: Proper insulation reduces drafts and enhances comfort, especially during colder months.

? Simple Installation Options: Techniques include using rock wool held with netting, tackling strapping with a stapler, or feeding insulation through removed floorboards.

?️ Ventilation Considerations: Concerns about moisture retention are mitigated by maintaining proper underfloor ventilation.

? Long-Term Savings: Insulation is a cost-effective improvement that yields long-term energy savings.

More From Skillbuilder – Suspended Beam And Block Floor

Get your free sample pack ?
https://www.birkdalesales.com/pages/fence-panel-fence-post-sample-packs

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Sam & Jen try out the DuraPost fencing system from @birkdalesales

? MORE SAM VIDEOS ?

https://youtu.be/uUalZH398A8

__________________________________

DuraPost® steel fence posts and composite fence panels

The ultimate fencing system

Choose steel fence posts to avoid the pitfalls of concrete and timber.

Select composite fence panels with traditional style wood grain finish with URBAN® or VENTO®.

Or perhaps a more contemporary aesthetic with PRIMA® or SLEEK®.

Whichever you choose, it will be:

• Maintenance-free
• Modular, with straightforward assembly
• Sustainable, from a carbon-neutral business
• Guaranteed for up to 25 years

Acoustic Reflective Fencing

? ALL SKILL BUILDER VIDEOS ?
https://www.youtube.com/@SkillBuilder/videos

Weep Hole Heroes
https://www.weepholeheroes.com
__________________________________

The Truth About Cavity Wall Ventilation

Let’s delve into the frequently misunderstood topic of cavity wall ventilation. Hosted by Roger Bisby from the Skill Builder channel, this discussion addresses one of the most common questions homeowners and builders face: Should cavity walls be ventilated, or is sealing them a better option?

Cavity walls are a crucial component of modern home construction, designed to prevent water penetration by creating a barrier that allows rainwater to drain harmlessly to the ground. However, adding insulation and air bricks has created confusion about whether cavities require ventilation to “breathe.”

Roger debunks misconceptions, such as the belief that air bricks ventilate the cavity. Instead, he clarifies their role in ventilating subfloor spaces or providing direct airflow into rooms. He also explains the importance of sealing the top of the cavity to prevent issues like loft condensation caused by evaporating dampness from open cavities.

The video highlights how a sealed cavity improves insulation performance. Eliminating air movement makes trapped air within the cavity a natural insulator, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing heat loss. Practical advice includes using mastic or silicone to seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings, ensuring maximum insulation value—even without additional cavity wall insulation.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to improve your property’s insulation or a professional seeking clarity on best practices, this video provides straightforward, actionable guidance on cavity wall ventilation. With over 1,000 home building and renovation videos, the Skill Builder channel is your go-to source for tackling common construction challenges.

__________________________________

Cavity Wall Ventilation – What You Need To Know

? Purpose of Cavity Walls: The primary function of cavity walls is to stop water penetration by allowing rain to run down the cavity and soak into the ground.

?️ Common Misconceptions: Air bricks are often misunderstood; they ventilate the subfloor space, not the cavity itself.

❌ Sealing Is Key: Open cavities can lead to condensation issues in the loft due to evaporation. Proper sealing prevents air movement, improving insulation.

? Insulation Benefits: Trapped air within a sealed cavity acts as a natural insulator, enhancing energy efficiency.

? Practical Advice: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and air bricks using mastic or silicone to optimize the cavity’s insulation.

More From Skillbuilder – How To Avoid A Cavity Crisis

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Preventing Chainsaw Fails

That moment when your Chainsaw fails… Chainsaws can be invaluable tools for anyone managing wood burners or handling logs, but they come with their challenges, especially for first-time buyers opting for inexpensive models.

1. Safety Considerations

Chainsaw operation carries inherent risks. The video emphasizes the importance of safety by recommending users watch chainsaw safety tutorials and invest in essential protective gear. For around £70, one can purchase a complete safety kit, including helmets, gloves, and protective trousers. However, poorly fitting gloves can limit effectiveness, highlighting the importance of choosing appropriate sizes.

2. Performance Issues with Cheap Chainsaws

A major focus is the inadequacies of budget chainsaws. The showcased model, a £100 Chinese-made chainsaw, received positive reviews online, but proved disappointing in practice. Issues included the chain falling off and inefficient wood cutting, primarily due to poor-quality components and inadequate maintenance. Definitely one of a few chainsaw fails there!

3. Maintenance and Sharpening

The video underscores the critical need for regular maintenance. For instance, oilers in chainsaws often clog, failing to lubricate the chain properly, which leads to excessive wear and reduced efficiency. Adjusting oilers and cleaning the system regularly is essential. Moreover, dull chains significantly hinder cutting ability. Demonstrations in the video illustrate the stark difference between cutting with a dull versus a sharp chain.

4. Sharpening Tools and Techniques

Affordable sharpening tools, available for as little as £10, can revitalize chains and improve performance. Proper sharpening techniques, such as ensuring the correct angle and maintaining even sharpness across teeth, extend the chain’s lifespan. These solutions empower users to achieve professional results even with budget equipment.

By addressing these issues, the video equips viewers with the knowledge to make safer, smarter, and more cost-effective chainsaw choices, reducing the chance of a multitude of chainsaw fails.

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