What is a chimney?
A chimney carries smoke and flue gases from a fire or appliance to the outside. Meanings, construction, history and practical tips for maintenance and safe use.
What is pile rake?
Pile rake is the deliberate inclination of a pile. How rake is expressed (5:1, 3:1), why raking piles are used and what to watch for in design and driving.
What is a brace or raking pile?
A brace (shore) is an inclined supporting member; a raking pile is a pile driven at an angle. Uses, types and safety tips for temporary bracing.
What is metal spraying?
Metal spraying (thermal spraying, metallising) applies molten zinc or aluminium to blast-cleaned steel for corrosion protection. Process, benefits and points to watch.
What is facing brickwork?
Facing (fair-faced) brickwork is masonry that stays visible, so it needs sound bricks and careful laying and pointing. Requirements, tips and common mistakes.
What is fair-faced concrete?
Fair-faced (exposed) concrete is concrete whose visible surface must meet agreed appearance requirements. Types, formwork, workmanship and common mistakes.
What is schokbeton (shock-compacted concrete)?
Schokbeton is a Dutch precast concrete process in which concrete was compacted in the mould by repeated jolting. Origins, uses and tips for renovation.
What is a boot scraper?
A boot scraper is an iron blade by the door for scraping mud off shoes and boots. Types, placement and tips for restoring an old one or fitting a new one.
What is a nave?
The nave is the main body of a church: the central space with its aisles, from the entrance to the transept or choir. Meaning, origin and types.
What are moulds and fungi in buildings?
Moulds and wood-decaying fungi grow in homes where it is too damp. The difference between surface mould and dry rot, causes and what to do about it.