Skyline America

Much of Bristol’s primary terraced housing stock is of the Victorian era, a time when spirit levels were not regarded essential! At least that could be a conclusion you might draw if you’ve ever had the good luck to work on a Victorian terrace restoration.

Some of the houses I have seen are quite amazing. It’s like being in winky wonky world! The ceiling runs one way out of level, the floor runs the other way. If you’re in line for jobs like fitting skirtings, some of the angles you have to deal with can give you stupid brain hurt!

One of the major problems with these houses is the non existence of any proper foundation. They were just slapped up as quick as possible to give the incoming workers warmth and dry shelter. It’s amazing they have stood this long really.

During the initial fifteen years of their lives many of the houses have moved and as such many internal walls have become distorted. This often gives rise to a wedge shaped room with all the lovely angles that entails.

If you have ever had the thankless task of installing kitchen worktops in Bristol houses you will know these angles only to well. You’d be advised to brush up on your advanced carpentry skills before attempting this kind of job.

Once you’ve completed a couple it does become easier and you could just become a dab hand and scribing those worktops into those wibbly walls. In fact getting it right is very satisfying. Good luck in your mission!