Understanding Housing Defects

Understanding Housing Defects PDF

Author: Duncan Marshall

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Published: 2003

Total Pages: 347

ISBN-13: 0728204177

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This new edition of Understanding Housing Defects has been extensively revised and includes new and revised graphics, many more photographs, and an extended text. The book is a natural companion to The Construction of Houses (first published in 1990 and now in its 3rd revision). Understanding Housing Defects provides a concise, coherent and comprehensive introduction to the causes, investigation and diagnosis of housing defects. It is aimed at all those students and practitioners who require a broad understanding of housing defects as part of a wider sphere of academic or professional activity. The book has three specific objectives, to explain why, and how, defects occur. To enable the reader to recognise and identify building defects and to provide, where appropriate, guidance on their correct diagnosis. The authors have worked in both public and private sectors and have, between them over 75 years' experience in dealing with housing and general building defects. Currently, they are all lecturers at the University of the West England, where they teach on a variety of undergraduate and post-graduate courses. They are also actively involved in carrying out research and consultancy for a number of property owning organisations throughout the UK.

Understanding Building Failures

Understanding Building Failures PDF

Author: James Douglas

Publisher: Routledge

Published: 2013-04-12

Total Pages: 347

ISBN-13: 1136448799

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Building defects still continue to plague the construction industry. The lessons learned over the last forty years have not been fully applied. Many new or refurbished buildings still leak or crack. Lack of awareness by designers and installers as to the main mechanisms that trigger such failures remains a problem for the industry. Investigating and rectifying building failures form a major part of building surveyors’ bread and butter work. This book provides guidance on this work for typical residential, commercial and industrial buildings – with advice on how to diagnose a wide range of defects with an emphasis on evidence based practice throughout. It considers both modern and older construction methods, together with new and traditional materials. The particular problems of alteration and renovation work are also discussed. The first four chapters provide information and guidance on the methodology for investigating failures – how to prepare for and conduct an investigation into a building defect and subsequently diagnose its cause in a logical manner. This fourth edition has been updated and expanded to cover the latest diagnostic procedures and research. It also includes Appendices and a new Bibliography, and provides an extensive list of books on building pathology and related topics in the UK and North America. It is essential reading for all students and practitioners interested in building surveying and building conservation.

The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes

The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes PDF

Author:

Publisher:

Published: 2009

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13:

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Houses have always been one of the centerpieces of American life. Houses are the places where parents raise their children, where family reunions take place, and where people live, work, and play. Americans have always realized that healthy houses can lead to healthier lives. Many of the extraordinary improvements in health that were achieved in the 20th century resulted from improvements in the Nation's homes. Although poorly maintained homes increases the risk for injury and illness, unhealthy and unsafe housing continues to affect the health of millions of people of all income levels, geographic areas, and walks of life in the United States. The Call to Action describes the steps people can take now to protect themselves from disease, disability and injury that may result from health hazards in their houses. These steps have been scientifically proven to reduce health problems that cause or contribute to disease and injuries. And, improving literacy about healthy homes and teaching people about the steps they can take to change unhealthy and unsafe behaviors at home will lead to better health for all Americans. This Call to Action also outlines the next steps of a society-wide, comprehensive and coordinated approach to healthy homes that will result in the greatest possible public health impact and reduce disparities in the availability of healthy, safe, affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly homes.