Simon James Lewis

9 posts
Practitioner - Consultant, Designer and Workshop host. www.simonjameslewis.com

Decentralised-MVHR – a quicker|cheaper|better whole-house solution? 

Good ventilation is essential for the health and well-being of both a building and its occupants. Efficient space heating requires a building to be airtight. Controlled ventilation is essential. Could a responsive Decentralised Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (d-MVHR) be a quicker|cheaper|better whole-house solution?

Interaction of historic building fabric and atmosphere

The purpose behind traditional decorative Architectural detailing. The historic building fabric was designed and detailed to manage moisture vapour by successfully interacting with the atmosphere. Before modifying the original, the function and purpose of the existing form should first be fully understood.

A beautiful 1850’s Semi – a history of chimney damp spots

Since purchase in 2016, various damp problems have manifested in numerous locations, several of which focus upon the centrally located chimney stack. Despite multiple attempts to resolve the problem; chimney and roof repairs, clearing and repairs to gutters, the symptoms have persisted.

Landlocked kitchen and bathroom – extractor vents not connected to the outside?

Previous surveys were undertaken by preservation and treatment companies have diagnosed rising damp then recommended a chemical damp proof course and cement render. Yet the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors describes ‘rising damp’ as a myth. Following an introduction from the Building Management Company, Simon James Lewis, Neighbourhood Construction CIC has been invited to ascertain the probable causes of a number of moisture-related symptoms being experienced at the property.

This property presents itself very honestly – conveyancing

This property presents itself very honestly, unlike so many others it has not been freshly painted prior to being offered for sale and therefore allowed for gaining a good insight into the causes of moisture readings previously taken.

Energy and moisture

Energy-retrofitting the traditional hygrothermal envelope, managing and mitigating moisture problems whilst reducing the need and consumption of energy. Talk Evening talks and social with practitioners sharing stories. When: Tuesday 24th January, 7 – 9pm Where: Portcullis, 3 Wellington Terrace, Bristol BS8 4LE [Map] Cost: Free, booking essencial Open home Drop in, come take a look and maybe […]

Listed Georgian property – unwittingly damaged by electrical installation

Unnecessary and irreversible damage has been sustained to this Listed Georgian property, timbers have been cut unnecessarily, lath and plaster have sustained avoidable damage and masonry work has been unnecessarily chased.

Uncontrolled ventilation and dysfunctional extraction

Following a previous site appraisal, The estate management company requested a further site visit and report be undertaken at an adjoining property, to ascertain the probable causes of a number of moisture-related symptoms being experienced at the property. A site visit was undertaken on the afternoon of Wednesday the 9th […]