Harness Heritage Skills

Proper maintenance of a historic building not only guarantees the preservation of its historic fabric but also has the potential to save you substantial money in the long run.

Building materials naturally degrade over time and can deteriorate due to various factors, including exposure to the elements and human activities. However, the most prevalent cause of damage to a building is moisture and water penetration, which can infiltrate the structure through roofs, rainwater systems, exterior walls, and even rising groundwater.

Neglecting these seemingly minor issues can result in the accumulation of more significant and often expensive problems. For instance, if left unattended, penetrating damp can lead to the growth of rot, exacerbating the damage and costs involved.

Historic Environment Professions and Specialisms

Traditional Building Skills

Roofing

Thatching: Thatching is a traditional roofing method in Ireland that has declined with the introduction of slate and tin roofs. It is known for its dense and visually appealing appearance, blending harmoniously with the landscape. Thatch roofs utilize materials such as straw, flax, rye, and fresh water reed, offering regional variations across Ulster’s nine counties.

Water-resistant
Good insulation properties
Potential for greater environmental sustainability compared to other roofing materials

Slate: Slate roofs exhibit various styles throughout the region and are a part of a generational tradition. Slate tiles were custom-made using unique measurements passed down within families or craftsmen, resulting in personalized tiles of different sizes and shapes. Welsh Slate became widely used, replacing traditional slate.

Joinery

Joinery plays a significant role in showcasing the architectural style and era of a historic building. Windows, doors, fittings, and embellishments collectively contribute to the building’s distinct and memorable character.

Window and door openings on historic buildings tend to experience distortion and movement over time due to material shifts and stress. Preserving their integrity requires bespoke craftsmanship, as standardized and off-the-shelf fixtures are not suitable for these structures

The primary areas of focus for joinery are doors and windows, with wood being the predominant material used. It’s important to note that uPVC is not appropriate for historic buildings and is generally not permitted in listed buildings or Conservation Areas

Lime plaster work and renders

Lime is a material employed extensively in historic buildings. Traditionally, lime-based renders incorporated hair and/or vegetable fibres to enhance their strength. These renders were applied directly onto surfaces or onto horizontal laths, known as “lath and plaster.” These time-honoured techniques can still be utilized today.

Externally, lime-based renders served to waterproof buildings, establishing a protective barrier against the elements. Notably, lime renders can skilfully replicate stonework and stucco patterns. By incorporating sand or aggregate, a range of coloured and textured surface finishes can be achieved.

Key characteristics of lime plaster work and renders include:

Finishing material
Breathable nature
Flexibility to accommodate structural movement

Masonry

Stone and brick are the primary materials employed in the construction of historic buildings, each with its distinctive characteristics. Stone was utilized in grand houses, churches, and public buildings for its imposing presence, but it was also used in vernacular structures where it was readily available. Stonework encompasses tasks such as dry stone walling, carving, and redressing.

Brick, on the other hand, was commonly used in urban environments and is closely associated with terraced housing. The irregular shape and size of bricks, resulting from imperial sizing and the hand-making process, add to their charm. Brickwork allows for the creation of decorative patterns and bonds that greatly enhance the visual impact of the streetscape. The introduction of factory-made bricks replaced the use of imperial and handmade bricks, offering more uniform and consistent sizing.

Mortar plays a vital role in bonding brick and stone together. Pointing, the application of mortar, significantly contributes to the overall character and appearance of a building. Lime mortar is preferred due to its breathability, capillary action, and flexibility.

Please visit our Traditional Skills Directory for further information on other specialised skills and practitioners.

How To Source The Right People And Skills

You should:

Engage with professionals who understand your project’s vision and share your passion
Seek professional advice if you’re unsure of your needs
When choosing a contractor/sub-contractor, review their portfolio, meet them in person, and visit a site with material samples

Accreditation:

Consider accreditation from specialist bodies as a qualification for contractors/sub-contractors
Look for testimonials and examples of their work to ensure quality
Accredited bodies include IHBC, RSUA, RIAI, and ICON (list not exhaustive).

Ask for a guarantee:

Request a guarantee from your supplier/sub-contractor before entering into a contract
Know what you want and stand your ground when working with contractors/sub-contractors

Other important factors to consider:

1. Condition Assessment (Before starting work):

Assess the cultural significance, age, construction, historic fabric, and modern interventions of the building.
Identify areas of concern and determine necessary conservation works.
Seek specialist advice if needed, especially regarding hazardous materials.

2. Project Management:

Hire a project manager to ensure timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
Source contractors/sub-contractors and handle project delays.

3. Planning Approval (Before starting work):

Obtain appropriate planning permissions before starting any work on site.
Consult with the Local Planning Authority for pre-application advice.
Consider the time-consuming nature and potential costs of planning applications.