 |
Conservation architect Manish Chakraborti delves into the fascinating architectural history of the city's Anglican churches and considers recent conservation work on these precious buildings. His article also provides an insight into changing attitudes to building conservation in this remarkable city. |
| |
|
 |
John Minter has been the project architect for four historic church re-ordering projects involving the installation of underfloor heating. His article addresses the various construction options and includes a detailed appraisal of the insulated tray or 'dry' system. Although underfloor heating is not suitable for all older churches, it can help to keep underused churches viable. |
| |
|
 |
This article explores the production of shellac from the resinous secretions of the sap-eating lac beetle and the finishes, including Japanning and French polishing, which this material has made possible. The article also covers the application of these finishes and how to conserve and restore them sympathetically. |
| |
|
 |
VAT consultant Julian Potts provides an overview of the changes made in 2012 to HMRC's rules on VAT and repairs or approved alterations to listed buildings. He also addresses the implications of the changes for historic churches especially in relation to the (now extended) Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme. |
| |
|
 |
Two of the UK's foremost experts on pest management in the historic environment explains the life cycles of these insect pests, the types of damage they cause, and how best to prevent, monitor and treat infestations. |
| |
|
 |
Jonathan Taylor investigates a new approach to heritage skills training that involves using conservation projects as training grounds for specialist trainees. The article considers two projects that have taken this approach: one run by the National Trust, the other by the National Heritage Ironwork Group. |
| |
|
 |
This introduction to the history and conservation of wrought iron and steel windows advises on when to repair and when to replace, provides guidance on both in situ and workshop repairs, and addresses a wide range of related conservation issues from hardware repair to priming and repainting. |
| |
|
 |
Tim Yates of the Building Research Establishment assesses recent research into the thermal performance of solid wall construction in traditional buildings and looks at the risks and benefits of introducing various wall insulation systems, where these are appropriate. |
| |
|
 |
Carpet and tapestry conservator Heather Tetley introduces the subject of 18th-century British floor coverings, from painted floor cloths to the fine Axminster carpets used in grand Georgian country houses. Her article includes guidance on coping with deterioration and a case study exploring current best practice. |
| |
|
 |
The V&A Museum's Steven Handforth provides practical guidance on the repair and replacement of historic terracotta, focusing on the difficulties associated with trying to match new to old when modern manufacturers use different clay sources and new production methods to their forebears. |
| |
|
 |
The Bat Conservation Trust's Kelly Gunnell explains why bats roost in old buildings, the legislation that protects them and what steps to take if bats are discovered. Her article includes a series of case studies, practical guidance on mitigation measures and a list of useful online and printed resources. |
| |
|
 |
Tim Hutton's article provides a brief guide to coping with fire-damage to historic buildings and the typically even more destructive effects of water penetration during and after the fire. His advice will help owners and managers to refurbish quickly, cost-effectively and with maximum retention of historic fabric. |
| |
|
 |
Ruth Nicholls' article looks at flood risk and remediation in the historic environment. It includes a case study examining the flooding of a 12th-century Gloucestershire church in 2007, from the nature and extent of the damage caused to the clean-up operation, repair work and the church's new flood strategy. |
| |
|
 |
Heritage consultant Nicholas Doggett provides an invaluable introduction to Listed Building Consent (LBC) in England and Wales, debunking some of the myths associated with it and providing some illuminating examples of repair and restoration projects that did and didn't require LBC applications. |
| |
|
