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We were recently approached by a homeowner in Eastbourne who had purchased a two-storey terrace property requiring essential improvements. A comprehensive survey assessed the condition of the property, identifying several issues needing attention both externally and internally.
To address these, scaffolding was erected to the front and rear elevations, allowing safe access for remedial works at eaves level. Existing tiles were stripped back, new 5U felt installed for weatherproofing, and original tiles reinstated to maintain the property’s character.
Front elevation works included:
Rear elevation works included:
Both party fire walls were stabilised and coated with a hybrid polymer roofing system for long-term weather protection. Chimneys were rebuilt at the top two courses, re-flaunched, and treated with Storm Dry, a breathable water-repellent coating to prevent penetrating damp.
Alongside the roofline and decorative improvements, substantial ground-level works were undertaken to resolve long-standing issues. At the rear, the old brick flower bed and existing patio were completely removed. To improve drainage and reduce damp risk, the external ground level was lowered by about 300mm.
Limitations from the 1970s extension’s drainage system meant the new patio height could only be reduced by 50mm. To compensate, a linear ACO rainwater channel was installed at the rear of the garden, efficiently diverting water away from the property before reinstating the new patio.
After completion of the external works, focus shifted to modernising the interior to meet the homeowner’s needs. The loft was first cleared and fitted with new insulation to improve energy efficiency and reduce heat loss.
Throughout the property, internal strip-out works were undertaken, including the removal of all internal doors (except hallway cupboards), carpets, gas fires, and wallpaper in preparation for refurbishment.
During this process, rising damp was identified in several areas. Poulton Remedials inspected and implemented treatment by removing skirting boards and plaster to 1.2m, then installing a Dryzone chemical damp-proof course in line with BS 6576. Once cured, affected areas were replastered and redecorated to achieve a seamless finish.
A full electrical rewire followed, with new wiring chased into walls and additional circuits installed for extra light fittings. The upgraded system met current safety standards and was fully certified.
A new heating system was also installed, including a modern combi boiler and thermostatic radiators for improved control. A new gas supply line was fitted, tested, and certified in accordance with Gas Safe and Building Regulations. The redundant hot water cylinder was removed, and new pipework installed to supply the bathroom, WC, and kitchen.
The kitchen, bathroom, and WC were refurbished to the client’s design, featuring new sanitaryware, fitted kitchen units, appliances, wall tiling, and non-slip flooring for safety and durability. Finally, all internal doors and ironmongery were upgraded and custom-fitted, and each room fully redecorated to complement the 140-year-old property.
The refurbishment transformed the property into a modern, efficient, and comfortable home. By resolving issues such as damp, insulation, and outdated services while upgrading finishes, the works provided both aesthetic improvements and long-term resilience.