Heritage

Introduction Ventilation is about more than comfort, it’s a key strategy for preserving the fabric of period homes. Without proper air exchange, excess humidity can damage historic materials, encourage mould growth, trigger decay, and impair indoor air quality. Heritage bodies like the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and Historic England emphasise the need for … Read more

Introduction In heritage conservation, the mortar you choose is crucial, it’s not just about fixing cracks; it’s about preserving architectural legacy. As chartered surveyors and heritage specialist, we’ve seen how incompatible mortars, especially modern cement-based ones, can damage historic masonry through trapped moisture, spalling, and rigidity. This guide explores the full spectrum of traditional lime … Read more

Introduction Owning a listed or heritage property is both an honour and a unique responsibility. These structures, rich in history and built with bespoke materials, demand reinstatement cost assessments (RCAs) that go beyond standard practices. An elemental RCA that breaks down the building into individual components is vital to guarantee accurate valuation, avoid costly underinsurance, … Read more

When it comes to building conservation, especially for heritage or listed buildings, one principle stands above the rest: minimum intervention. But what does this concept really mean, why is it so widely adopted in conservation work, and is it always the best approach? This article explores the cost implications, potential drawbacks, alternative conservation strategies, and … Read more