Kevin McCloud has revealed the reason behind one of the most common problems seen on Grand Designs. Since 1999, the 67-year-old has fronted the hit Channel 4 series, which follows some of Britain's most ambitious self-build projects as homeowners attempt to design and construct their dream properties.
As with many large-scale building projects, setbacks and unexpected challenges are part of the process. However, one recurring issue that viewers have frequently noticed is that windows often fail to fit the spaces they were made for.
Why Windows Don't Fit
Addressing the problem on the Dish podcast, hosts Nick Grimshaw and Angela Hartnett asked the presenter why it seems to happen so often. The presenter explained that the toughening process used to create safety glass is usually to blame, comparing it to Angela's discussion about tenderising meat and avoiding overcooking it.
"Glass, once it's toughened, it's got a tension in it and it can't be cut," he explained. "If you try and cut it, it will shatter into a million little pieces like a car windscreen. That's what makes toughened safety glass safe.
"Most big windows are toughened for safety reasons [and regulations], so they cut it before they toughen it. But in the heating and cooling process, the glass distorts very slightly. It could just be a few millimetres, but then it doesn't fit the frame.
"So you've got to make the whole bl***y thing again. That's why."
In response, Nick joked that while it was "a nightmare" for those involved, it makes "great TV" whenever it happens.
Common Builder Mistakes
Kevin also recently reflected on some of the most common mistakes he has witnessed builders make over the years, insisting that experience does not always prevent costly errors.
"I think the mistakes made by first-time builders and the mistakes made by third-time builders are the same ones," he said. "It's the way in which hope and self-belief overreach. We all think we can do everything by ourselves."
"We've all watched somebody put a shelf up on YouTube, so that means building a house should be easy. It comes down to the sort of overconfidence of people, and it's about collaboration."
The television regular went on to stress the importance of finding skilled professionals who can deliver quality work and help bring a project to life. He also emphasised the need to allow enough time for a build and to ensure that everyone involved shares the same vision from the outset.
Future of Grand Designs
During an appearance on the Heart Radio Breakfast Show last month, Kevin, who recently told us he was almost rejected to host the show, also opened up about his future on the property programme. Despite once believing he would retire at 60, the designer revealed he now has more energy than ever and confirmed that a new series of Grand Designs is on the way.
