Opening up works exposes inferior brickwork, which will require substantial brick replacement. Exposure externally uncovers an extremely weak lintel requiring immediate support.  

Removal of Chimney exposes original rotten timbers in the roof. Brick replacement takes shape.

Temporary Roof removed, exposing the original fabric. It will be a vast improvement.

Opening up works to the kitchen exposes the original brick floor (laid directly on the soil) and deteriorated Oak framing as a consequence of insect attack. Both will need preserving for prosperity. The Oak beam is to be strengthened with the introduction of a Flitch plate. The brick floor will…

Inferior soil conditions necessitated the use of piles and a beam and block floor.

Existing single glazed windows have been replaced with Conservation style double glazed windows to satisfy building regulations.

Storm damage to a “Sussex Roof” has resulted in further improvements to the splendid six-bedroom house including chimney replacement/rebuilding, structural repairs and details reinstated internally.

The tiles were stripped off to reveal that the battens were rotten and had totally disintegrated, after replacing the battens the tiles were then slipped into place – this took us almost two days of solid work to complete.  

All of the external woodwork was stripped of existing paint. Linseed oil paint was used to ensure that the wood could breathe. This is a more expensive paint but apparently lasts 2 to 3 times longer. It does however take days to dry and get absorbed by the wood.

Continuous drainage problems arise at the outset, which is dealt with efficiently by DJH Restorations. It was found that the route of the Ditchling Village pond (not belonging to The Old Manor House) overflow pipe passed directly under the location of the proposed extension. This needed to be moved to ensure…