Homeowners
Homeowners of period properties may have many questions about understanding and caring for their building.
The SPAB aims to help owners of old buildings by providing training, technical advice and publications.
Common questions asked are:
- How do I know if this crack in my wall is serious?
- Am I doing the right thing for my period home?
- I'd like to get a professional in, but I'm worried about being ripped off?
- Do I really need to install a damp proof course?
We also welcome interested, experienced period property homeowners to specific technical events.
The next event will be: Damp Issues - Causes and Current Thinking (see below for more information).
SPAB’s Weekend Homeowners Course is led by experts and gives period property owners access to the kind of advice and guidance that can be difficult to obtain. Crucially, this information is relevant to all sorts of buildings – from moated manor houses to Victorian cottages and terraced houses! Find out more in this audio slideshow. The weekend is designed to equip people with essential knowledge so they can ask the right questions when they or their builders tackle a project. It is also extremely helpful for those who are considering buying a period property – or who have recently done so – and who now need guidance on the best ways to repair it. The two days cover a range of topics including:
- how to deal sensitively with damp, timber decay and repair;
- roofing materials and their repair;
- paints and other surface finishes;
- when to use lime plasters and renders;
- energy efficiency for your home;
- the role of architects and building surveyors; and
- how to work successfully with your builder.
Download the Programme from the 2012 Homeowners Weekend Course.
If you are interested in attending a Homeowners Course in the future, please contact the SPAB Courses Organiser.
The course invariably features lively question and answer sessions and a close look at case studies. The weekend also offers the opportunity to meet like-minded enthusiasts and fellow owners of old and listed buildings whose own experiences and stories provide an inspiring, supportive and very relevant backdrop to the sessions.
- “The breadth of information shared - I now feel I understand my building far more.” 2012 delegate
- “I liked the fact it was for homeowners, so I didn't fee like I had to be an expert.” 2011 delegate
- “Good value for money; has paid for itself in avoiding the wrong sort of repairs or unnecessary work.” 2010 delegate
