How should I proceed with this set of jobs?

Aloysius1972

Hi

we have a large 3 storey Victorian semi and there are a number of maintenance jobs that need to be done, particularly to the SW elevation. We need some roof repairs, barge board replaced, gutter cleaned, windows and masonry repaired and repainted, etc. This will involve scaffolding due to the height of the building.

i have been prevaricating for a couple of years because it seems such a complex set of things, but I really need to make a start. What would be the simplest way to proceed. I have been thinking to work from the ‘top down’ and get some roofing quotes first and see if that needs a scaffold. If so, then being in the other trades, etc. But is there a better way of proceeding?

Albermarle

My first thought is that 'getting some trades in' is a challenge in itself, in some areas especially. What do you do if the scaffolding is up, and some of the people you want are booked up for months in advance/not interested ?

fluffymuffy

The easiest way is to get a main contractor to undertake the whole project. They will be able to schedule the work based on the availability of trades in their employment or individuals they generally work with, and sort out the scaffolding. Doing the project management yourself might save money but it might not. Have you had some quotes for the whole thing?

FreeBear

fluffymuffy said:

The easiest way is to get a main contractor to undertake the whole project. They will be able to schedule the work based on the availability of trades in their employment or individuals they generally work with, and sort out the scaffolding. Doing the project management yourself might save money but it might not. Have you had some quotes for the whole thing?

Just make sure anyone doing repairs to the brickwork us the right mortar. A Victorian property is going to be built with a lime mortar. Any repairs should use the same. If any cement is added to the mix (even in the belief that it will help to set faster) will result in something that is too hard and impermeable. Over time, the bricks will spall and/or the fillets of cement mortar will fall out. And don't let anyone use a grinder to chase out old mortar.