Key facts about Postgraduate Certificate in Void Wall Phenomena
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A Postgraduate Certificate in Void Wall Phenomena offers specialized training in the identification, analysis, and remediation of voids within building structures. This advanced program equips professionals with the skills necessary to understand the complexities of cavity wall construction and associated issues.
Learning outcomes include a comprehensive understanding of void wall inspection techniques, including thermal imaging and acoustic methods. Students will also develop proficiency in interpreting data, assessing risk, and proposing effective solutions for various void wall defects. This includes expertise in moisture ingress, thermal bridging and structural instability.
The program's duration is typically structured to allow flexible learning, often spanning over one academic year with a blend of online and in-person modules. Specific scheduling details would need to be confirmed with the educational institution offering the course.
This Postgraduate Certificate holds significant industry relevance for building surveyors, structural engineers, and construction professionals dealing with existing buildings. The skills acquired are directly applicable to building diagnostics, restoration projects, and insurance claims related to void wall problems. Understanding the principles of heat loss and energy efficiency through better building management is also a key outcome.
Graduates will be prepared for roles requiring advanced knowledge in the field of building pathology and defective constructions. The certification demonstrates a commitment to professional development and enhances employability within the construction and property sectors, improving project outcomes and risk assessment methodology.
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Why this course?
A Postgraduate Certificate in Void Wall Phenomena addresses a critical need within the UK construction industry. Dampness, structural instability, and energy inefficiency related to void walls are significant issues. The UK's aging housing stock, with a substantial proportion of properties containing cavity walls built before modern insulation regulations, exacerbates this problem. Approximately 23 million homes in England alone are estimated to be at least 30 years old, increasing the likelihood of encountering void wall defects. This translates to significant repair and remediation costs, creating a high demand for skilled professionals.
Issue |
Estimated Cost (Billions GBP) |
Damp & Mould |
2.5 |
Structural Damage |
1.8 |
Energy Loss |
1.2 |