In this episode, Natalie chats with Sean, a construction director with over 40 years of experience in various sectors of the industry, including residential, commercial, and military projects. Sean shares his journey into construction, influenced by his family's long history in carpentry, and discusses his transition from hands-on work to management. They discuss practical advice for DIY enthusiasts, focusing on the challenges of replacing a felt roof on a beach hut.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Sean has a long history in construction, stemming from a family legacy of carpenters. He initially worked alongside his father before pursuing an engineering degree and moving into management roles.

• Replacing a felt roof on a beach hut can be challenging due to limited space between huts, which makes it difficult to maneuver tools and materials. Additionally, the timing of repairs is crucial, as heavy maintenance is often restricted to certain seasons.

• When refelting a roof, it's important to choose high-quality materials. While mineral felt is common, rubberised products may offer greater longevity in harsh environments, such as those near the sea.

• Proper preparation is essential for a successful roofing project. This includes having the right tools, such as stepladders, a Stanley knife, and a good quality adhesive, as well as accurately measuring the roof to determine the amount of felt needed.

• Safety is paramount when undertaking DIY projects. Watching instructional videos, using sharp tools carefully, and considering protective gear can help ensure a safer working environment. Investing in quality materials can also lead to longer-lasting results, reducing the need for frequent repairs.

BEST MOMENTS

"When i first stared work, i thought working out in the elements was absolutely fantastic, then I went through the first winter and realised that it was absolutely freezing and not for me."

"The issue with doing the work yourself is the quantity that you actually have to buy as felt for example comes in a roll, which can mean that it's expensive when you only need a small amount for a beach hut. Rather than maybe getting somebody in who does it on a regular basis."

"Some councils only allow heavy beach hut maintenance at certain times of the year, usually off-season, thereby restricting work to times when the weather is less favourable."

"If you're doing it from a DIY point of view, using good quality materials means it will last longer. You don't want to be replacing the roof again in four or five or six or seven years."

"It's always good to have good quality and sharp tools. Makes the job that little bit easier."

HOST BIO

My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionately called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven.

Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host.

The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too!

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PODCAST DESCRIPTION

Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts!

Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you.

As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut.

We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers.

If you don’t know what all the fuss is about, join us every week and you too will become a little bit Bonkers Bbout Beach Huts.