Building Conservation
By Steve Twyford Dip Surv Pract TechRICS

For some historic and listed buildings it is a constant battle to keep them in good order, with large amounts of expenditure spent on cyclical maintenance such as decorations. Any chance of extending the life span of these cyclical works not only eases the financial burden year by year but also releases finance for other repairs sooner.

There have been many transitions in the manufacture of paint over the years resulting in our present day resin based paints that may fail to give the longevity of some historic coatings.  As part of our investigations into an alternative, a system was presented that took a step back in time with paints that use a linseed oil base. These types of paints have been used across Europe since before the 17th century and use natural pigments to obtain the colours. The linseed based paints can give a dramatically longer lifespan if a thorough preparation process is adhered to.

Architectural paint research often forms part of a plan for the conservation and maintenance of a building.  The importance of this discipline is increasingly recognised as it provides an understanding of the use of paints in the buildings history.  Once the different paint types are understood a more informed preparation and redecoration specification can be produced.

The firms Building Services department manages a wide range of historic properties planning cyclical decorations and repairs. We ensure that the best methods are used which are sympathetic to a particular type of building material.

Appropriate research, consultancy and choice of suitable methodology will give a greater cost initially but this should be far out weighed by the long term savings and protection of historic fabric; King West can give valuable advice on this and other aspects of historic property management.

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