We recently inspected a property in central Brighton after cracks appeared in its stone façade.
At first glance, cracking is not unusual for a building constructed in the mid-1920s. However, the cracking pattern was highly distinctive. It pointed to a lesser-known defect called Regent Street Disease, named after widespread failures along Regent Street.
What Is Regent Street Disease?
Regent Street Disease results from hidden corrosion within early steel-framed buildings.
During the 1920s, developers commonly constructed buildings with steel frames clad in stone. However, they often built the stonework tightly against the steel frame. As a result, moisture absorbed by the porous stone came into direct contact with the metalwork.
Over time, this trapped moisture triggered corrosion.
In contrast, modern construction requires a cavity between the façade and structural frame. This separation prevents prolonged moisture exposure and significantly reduces the risk of corrosion.
Why the Damage Often Goes Undetected
One of the main challenges with Regent Street Disease is delayed diagnosis.
Many professionals remain unfamiliar with this specific construction method from the early twentieth century. Consequently, the true extent of corrosion can remain hidden for years.
As the steel corrodes, it expands — sometimes up to ten times its original volume. This expansion exerts pressure on the surrounding masonry, eventually displacing or cracking the stone façade.
Traditional Repair Methods – Intrusive and Disruptive
Historically, the only reliable solution involved dismantling the external façade, treating the corroded steel, and then rebuilding the frontage.
However, this approach is highly intrusive. It causes significant disruption, particularly in a busy high street location in Brighton. Therefore, we carefully considered less disruptive alternatives.
Our Approach: Specialist Engineering Input
For this project, we appointed specialist structural engineers to inspect the structure, assess the extent of corrosion, and recommend the most appropriate treatment strategy.
We expect to implement Cathodic Protection, an electrochemical technique that controls corrosion rather than removing all affected elements.
This system works by:
- Embedding a more reactive metal component into the mortar
- Introducing a controlled DC power supply
- Reversing the electrical current associated with the corrosion process
As a result, the system slows or halts further corrosion without requiring full façade dismantling.
It is a specialist solution for a specialist defect.
Concerned About Regent Street Disease?
If you own or manage a steel-framed property with unexplained cracking, particularly one built in the early twentieth century, we recommend a detailed inspection.
Contact us today to arrange a professional assessment.