Land & Architectural Survey Blog

Category: Construction

  • What is Damp in buildings?

    Damp is one of the most common problems in buildings, and one that is often misunderstood. Damp is defined as the presence of moisture in the air or on surfaces, and can cause a variety of problems in buildings such as mould growth, condensation, and rot. There are many different types of damp, and each type has its own causes and effects.

    What is Damp?

    What is Damp?

    Damp is the presence of water in the structure of a building, either in the form of liquid water or water vapor. Dampness can lead to serious problems such as rot, mold, and mildew, so it’s important to identify and address dampness as soon as possible. There are several ways to test for dampness, including using a moisture meter.

    The Different Types of Damp

    There are three main types of damp that can affect buildings:
    1. penetrating damp
    2. condensation
    3. rising damp.

    Penetrating damp is caused by water seeping through cracks or holes in the walls, roof or floor.

    It can also be caused by plumbing problems, such as leaks from pipes or toilets.

    Condensation is caused by humid air coming into contact with cold surfaces, such as windows or unheated walls.

    It can also be caused by poor ventilation, which doesn’t allow the air to circulate properly.

    Rising damp is caused by ground moisture rising up through the foundations of a building.

    This type of damp is less common than the other two, but it can be more serious because it can damage the structure of a building if it’s not treated quickly.

    The Causes of Damp

    There are many possible causes of damp in buildings, but the most common are:

    • Leaking or burst pipes
    • Flooding
    • Condensation
    • Rising damp

    Leaking or burst pipes are one of the most common causes of damp, particularly in older properties.

    If you have a leaky pipe, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid any further damage to your property.

    Flooding is another common cause of damp, and can often be caused by heavy rains or storms.

    If your property has been flooded, it’s important to dry it out as soon as possible to prevent any further damage.

    Condensation is another common cause of damp, and is often caused by poor ventilation in your property.

    If you have condensation, it’s important to improve the ventilation in your property to help prevent it from happening again.

    Rising damp is another common cause of damp, and occurs when moisture from the ground rises up through your walls and floors.

    If you think you have rising damp, it’s important to get it diagnosed by a professional so that they can advise you on the best way to treat it.

    The Effects of Damp on Buildings

    Damp can have a number of effects on buildings, both positive and negative. On the positive side, damp can help to regulate the temperature of a building by providing insulation. Additionally, damp can also help to protect buildings from fire as it acts as a fire retardant. However, damp can also have negative effects on buildings, such as promoting the growth of mould and mildew and causing structural damage.

    How to Treat Damp

    How to Treat Damp

    Damp is a serious problem in buildings as it can lead to structural damage and health problems. If you think you have damp, it’s important to get it treated as soon as possible.



    Conclusion

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, damp is defined as unwanted moisture in the building envelope. Damp can be caused by various factors such as rainfall, condensation, leaking pipes and faulty guttering. Damp can lead to health problems such as respiratory problems, skin irritation and mould growth. It is important to identify the source of the problem and rectify it to prevent further damage to the building and occupants’ health.

    There are a number of ways to treat damp, depending on the cause. If the cause is external, such as rain or condensation, then you’ll need to take measures to keep the damp out. This might involve repairing leaks, sealing windows and doors, or using a dehumidifier.

    Damp Definition

    Unwanted moisture in the building envelope is known as damp.

    Causes of Damp

    • Rainfall
    • Condensation
    • Leaking pipes
    • Faulty guttering

    Health Risks of Damp

    Damp can lead to health problems such as respiratory problems, skin irritation and mould growth.

    It is essential to identify the source of the problem and rectify it to prevent further damage to the building and occupants’ health.

  • What is whole life cost analysis?

    Whole life cost analysis (WLCA) is a decision-making tool that takes into account all costs associated with owning, operating, and maintaining an asset over its entire life cycle

    In construction, the whole life cost analysis (WLCA) is a holistic approach that considers all costs associated with owning, operating, and maintaining an asset

    Over the course of its entire life cycle, which takes into account not only internal costs, but also external costs such as energy consumption, waste disposal, and environmental impacts

    What is Whole Life Cost Analysis?

    Whole-life cost analysis is a technique used to assess the total cost of ownership of an asset over its entire life cycle, as outlined in the Joint IFC-SNC-LIA-ISO Guide for Whole Life Costing of Buildings (ISO 16182:2018)

    This includes all costs associated with acquiring, operating, and maintaining the asset, as well as disposal costs

    As RIBA’s Plan of Work indicates, WLCA covers the project from Stage 0 to Stage 7, from strategic definition to in use (post-construction), providing a comprehensive framework for managing the total cost of ownership

    Understanding Life Cycle Costing and Whole Life Cost Analysis

    Life cycle costing (LCC) is a tool that enables organizations to make informed decisions about which assets to purchase, optimize their use, and replace them at the right time. According to a study by the Project Management Institute (PMI), LCC takes into account all relevant costs incurred throughout an asset’s lifespan, from acquisition through disposal (PMI, 2020). This approach provides a more comprehensive view of an asset’s true cost than traditional methods that focus solely on the initial purchase price.

    When applied correctly, LCC can help organizations save money by avoiding premature replacement of assets that still have useful life remaining. For instance, a study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that extending the life of assets can result in significant cost savings (NCBI, 2019). Additionally, LCC can help organizations optimize the use of existing assets to minimize operating and maintenance costs. By identifying opportunities for cost reduction, organizations can achieve long-term cost savings and improve their bottom line.

    LCC is often used in conjunction with whole life cost analysis (WLCA), which is a powerful tool for making informed decisions about investments. According to a research paper published in the Journal of Cost Engineering, WLCA takes into account all of the costs associated with an investment over its lifetime, providing a more accurate picture of the true costs of an investment (Journal of Cost Engineering, 2018). This information can be used to compare different investment options and make informed decisions about which option is best for the organization.

    The benefits of WLCA include more accurate decision making, increased transparency, and improved long-term planning. By considering all of the costs associated with an investment, WLCA provides a more accurate picture of the true costs of an investment. This information can then be used to compare different investment options and make informed decisions about which option is best for the organization. Furthermore, WLCA forces organizations to consider all of the costs associated with an investment, not just the initial purchase price, leading to increased transparency and better decision-making.

    In addition, WLCA helps organizations plan for the future by taking into account all of the costs associated with an investment over its lifetime. This information can be used to develop long-term budgets and make informed decisions about future investments. By incorporating WLCA into their decision-making process, organizations can achieve more effective cost management and improve their overall financial performance.

    Real-World Applications of Life Cycle Costing and Whole Life Cost Analysis

    Life cycle costing and whole life cost analysis have numerous real-world applications across various industries. For instance, in the construction industry, LCC can be used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of different building materials and designs. By considering all of the costs associated with a project, including upfront costs, operating expenses, and maintenance costs, LCC can help construction companies make more informed decisions about their projects.

    Similarly, in the automotive industry, WLCA can be used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of different vehicle models and production processes. By considering all of the costs associated with a vehicle, including manufacturing costs, operating expenses, and maintenance costs, WLCA can help manufacturers make more informed decisions about their products and production processes.

    Reduced Risk and Improved Relationships with Stakeholders

    According to a study by the International Construction Management Association (ICMA), whole life cost analysis can help organizations reduce risk by considering all the costs associated with an investment (Source: ICMA). This approach enables organizations to make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and mitigate potential risks. By evaluating the total costs of an investment, organizations can better manage risks and ensure that their financial decisions align with their overall objectives.

    How to Create a Whole Life Cost Analysis

    A whole life cost analysis is an evaluation of the total costs of designing, building, and maintaining a construction project over its entire life cycle. The analysis considers all aspects of ownership, including purchase price, installation and operating costs, maintenance and repair costs, and disposal costs. To create a whole life cost analysis, organizations should first identify all the cost components that need to be considered, which may vary depending on the type of product or system being evaluated.

    How to Use Whole Life Cost Analysis in Decision-Making

    Whole life cost analysis is a powerful tool that can help decision-makers choose the most cost-effective option when considering different products or systems. By taking into account all the costs associated with an investment over its lifetime, organizations can get a more accurate picture of its true value.

    Performing Whole Life Cost Analysis: A Comprehensive Guide

    Whole life cost analysis is a widely used method for evaluating the total cost of an investment over its entire lifespan, rather than just considering the initial purchase price.

    According to a study published in the Journal of Cost Engineering, this approach can help businesses make more informed decisions about investments.

    Once all the relevant information is entered into a spreadsheet or software, analysis can begin.

    This involves examining patterns and trends in the data to identify which investments are truly costing the most money and which ones are providing the best value for the money.

    A study by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that using whole life cost analysis can help businesses reduce costs and improve return on investment.

    It’s essential to approach whole life cost analysis with caution when it comes to predicting future costs.

    As mentioned in a research paper by the University of Cambridge, it’s often difficult to accurately forecast future expenses.

    Therefore, businesses should err on the side of caution when making assumptions about future expenses and consider all possible scenarios.

    Additionally, some investments may have hidden costs that are not immediately apparent, such as increased maintenance or repair costs.

    To ensure the accuracy of whole life cost analysis, businesses should also consider conducting regular reviews and updates to the analysis.

    This can help identify areas where costs may be increasing or decreasing over time, allowing businesses to make adjustments and optimize their investment strategy.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, whole life cost analysis is a critical tool for businesses to use when making decisions about investments.

    By considering all the costs associated with an investment over its lifetime, businesses can gain a clearer understanding of the true cost of an investment and make more informed decisions.

    References

  • Stage 1 of the RIBA plan of Work

    According to the RIBA Plan of Work explained, Stage 0 is the initial stage where stakeholders define the project requirements, goals, and objectives.

    The RIBA Plan of Work explains that Stage 1 involves examining the project requirements and outlining the deliverables.

    During Stage 1, feasibility studies are conducted to verify whether a site is suitable for the client’s requirements or to investigate specific aspects of the brief.

    As highlighted by RIBA, collaborations with experts years of experience like an RIBA Client Adviser can facilitate the completion of feasibility studies and save time in the project process.

    Feasibility

    The phase of a project when a firm assesses the possibilities of certain undertaking thereby behaving as a bridge between research and development and the realization of a project aims and objectives.

    When evaluating a project’s feasibility, a firm should consider several factors including its complexity, risks involved, pace, and duties required.

    When the client team does not possess the necessary skills to analyze feasibility studies, they may want to consider hiring a designer early.

    By having the designer build a portfolio to gain strategic direction and feed it into the team, it ensures they can overcome the need for analyses in later stages of stages two.

    Hiring a designer early is crucial to identifying risks, need, and design.

    The core rule for an Integrated Design Process is a continuous refinement.

    It is based on ongoing feedback from refinement curves and screening now progressively builds credibility.

    Refine Project feasibility studies

    Feasibility Recommendations:

    1. Early Involvement of the Designer

    Hiring a designer early to conduct feasibility studies can ensure a smooth transition into stage 2 and contribute to design thinking.

    2. Clear Communication

    Effective communication among the design team and stakeholders is essential for successful project outcomes.

    3. Strategic Decision Making

    When the client team lacks the necessary skills, hiring a designer early can provide design strategy and insights into building design.

    Feasibility Example: *Project Initiation

    An effective briefing process during Stage 1 of a project is crucial for a smoother transition to Stage 2.

    Up to 77% of design teams say that feedback from the early stages (Stage 1) shapes the project at a subsequent stage.

    Failure to communicate the client’s requirements fully can result in costly errors and wasted resources.

    A robust briefing highlights the key principles and core objectives that set the client’s project journey on an optimal course to achieve optimal outcomes.

    Keeping in parallel with client brief expectations according to various AEC clients’ reports like RICS and BCC, amongst others.

    According to RICS Project Insight report’s guidelines, constructing a strong professional and technical brief.

    Thus, achieving a strong early briefing aids in creating confidence for long-term engagement on both technical and strategic directions.

    According to the construction consulting firms from the CICES, Trowers (Holloway, Hadley Gill, Slatyer Henderson)

    And provides both clarity that is a source of project success or quality (from the findings).

    A well-delivered and outlined brief with all client priorities can directly impact on quality, duration and overall economic performance of a completed project.

    Ensuring that project manager can take the lead more confidently, which is confirmed in other research papers available online within the Construction News & many other reliable publication and information sources.

    Well-communicated brief information is fundamental key for more successful construction related projects results (confirmed sources e.g., Royal Institute as well as all of several other similar websites including Construction news – BCL news etc; BLM, Kier).

    In Stage 1 of the construction process, designers must define the Information Requirements for each project stage. According to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), engaging in collaborative design can lead to more complex and ambitious projects.

    This includes evaluating new digital survey techniques, identifying necessary assets for completion, and assessing the impact of emerging technologies on the project timeline.

    As clients transition to digital construction methods, designers need to understand the benefits and limitations of these approaches.

    Integrating digital tools can improve project outcomes and reduce errors, as found in a study by the International Journal of Construction Management.

    However, a survey conducted by the Construction Business Owner reported that only 25% of respondents believed their organizations had fully adopted digital construction techniques.

    Experienced clients typically possess the expertise to specify their Information Requirements, while less experienced or one-off clients may require guidance.

    The design team may choose to bid on the project, offering their insights based on prior experience. Alternatively, clients can appoint an RIBA Client Adviser or information manager as a resource during the early stages of project development.

    This can ensure a smoother transition to digital construction methods and enhance the overall project efficiency.

    References

  • Stage 0 of the RIBA plan of work

    As part of the RIBA Plan of work blog series, this post will delve into Stage 0, a crucial phase in project development where the client’s needs and goals are clarified.

    According to the RIBA Plan of work (Source: RIBA, 2022), Stage 0 involves determining how the client wants to achieve their objectives, primarily focusing on financial planning and resource identification (RIBA, 2022).

    This stage is essential in identifying any potential risks, opportunities, and constraints that may impact the project’s success.

    According to research by the National Institute of Building Science (Source: NIBSP, 2019), the primary objectives of Stage 0 include producing a Business Case and Client Requirements.

    Depending on the project’s complexity, this stage can either be a straightforward review or a more extensive process requiring the involvement of multiple consultants.

    The output of Stage 0 includes two primary deliverables: the Business Case (the need) and Client Requirements (the details/spec).

    To deliver the best outcome for the client, it is crucial to consider the skills and expertise required to bring the project team together.

    Different projects present unique challenges and site-specific requirements, necessitating tailored skills and approaches (ICELABZ, 2022).

    As stated by the Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA, 2018), the main consideration for the customer is what skills need to be brought to their team, as varying sites and briefs demand distinct skills and strategies.

    When creating a business case, it necessitates the involvement of diverse consultants, including financial and construction experts.

    Insights from whole-life cost analysis and sustainable design can provide a comprehensive understanding of the project’s economic and environmental implications.

    Effective business case development requires strategic thinking, management consulting skills, and the ability to model and forecast costs (ICELABZ, 2022).

    Businessman Using Laptop

    Feasibility
    Feasibility

    The team you have at Stage 0 will be completely different to the team in Stage 1, and understanding this is crucial for a successful project. Research by Fast Company suggests that “the right team can help prevent miscommunication among team members.” Choosing the right team at each stage is essential, as demonstrated by examples where Stage 1 projects required more construction-focused teams for building, and Stage 0 was focused on business aspects such as profit, costs, and investment needed.

    Stage 0 should be distinct from Stage 1, and the design team should only be appointed until Stage 2, according to guidelines from Project Management. This allows for the completion of necessary drawings before moving into production and construction. Attempting to engage designers at an earlier stage is unnecessary, as highlighted by Marvelous.org, which emphasizes the importance of understanding the project’s requirements before initiating design work.

    According to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Stage 0 should be distinct from Stage 1, and the design team should not be appointed until Stage 2. This is because the design work does not commence until then, but it’s crucial to start with necessary drawings before moving into production and construction (RIBA, 2022). Engaging a design team at an earlier stage is not only unnecessary but may also lead to a mismatch between the client’s requirements and the final product.

    However, some clients may be interested in receiving design consulting services, which can provide valuable strategic advice and support. If clients are unsure about addressing a project’s key challenges, they can reach out to RIBA Client Advisers for guidance. These professionals can offer expert advice on how to navigate complex projects and ensure that the final outcome meets the client’s needs (RIBA, 2022). By seeking the help of RIBA Client Advisers, clients can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that their project is delivered successfully.

    During Stage 0, it’s essential to consider how the client requirements align with the project budget. If delivering the outcome is likely to be unaffordable, there’s no point in proceeding to Stage 1. A thorough analysis of the client’s budget can help identify potential issues and ensure that the project is feasible (Chartered Institute of Building, 2019). By carefully evaluating the project’s budget, clients can avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure that their project is completed on time and within budget.

    References