Fact file
Project: Cob repairs, Exeter
Location: Suburban
Construction brief: Dismantle and rebuild unstable end of cob outbuilding prior to conversion into social housing.
Duration: Four weeks
Special considerations: The building itself was attached to an adjoining house and surrounded by other
properties. It is grade 2 listed and only repairs that were essential to the stability of the structure were permitted.
As it turned out, Swallows and an overhanging tree were also special considerations.
Project case notes:
The cob had to be supported with a lot of steelwork before dismantling could begin to ensure that no collapse could occur.
The extent of the erosion to the structure of this building only became apparent once the dismantling had begun and turned out
to be about twice the amount that was expected, the remaining structure was then pinned and stitched together.
Despite twice the amount of cob blockwork (32 tons) being required, the repairs were carried out in the allotted four week
slot keeping the main contractor's schedule on track.
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