The Durable Slate Company’s Post

The Benefits of Using Lime Mortars in Historic Building Restoration Chris Miller Historic buildings hold a special place in our hearts, offering a glimpse into the past and telling stories of bygone eras and architectural marvels. Restoring these treasures to their former glory requires a delicate touch and an arsenal of tools. One such important tool is lime mortars, an indispensable asset in restoration projects. But are […] https://ift.tt/m6NqwzK

This month we join other across the country in celebrating Historic Preservation Month and embracing the theme "People Saving Places." We'd like to recognize our dedicated staff that have worked on preserving some of Indiana's heritage. A few members of our crew sat down and answered some questions about why they enjoy working on historic preservation projects. Fort Wayne native Bri Minnich has been busy working on phase 1 of restoration work at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum. What lead you to working on historic building? I was lucky that when I was younger my parents valued traveling. Because of this I have been able to travel to many places within the United States as well as abroad. This has allowed me to see so many different types of historic buildings from all walks of life. This also means that I have seen a lot of empty and abandoned buildings that needed a new life. When I went to college for architecture I initially picked up a minor in historic preservation because of my interest in historic buildings, which then later led me to complete my masters in Historic Preservation. Why is it important to preserve our historic resources? It’s important because this is our history. Not only does it show where we came from, but it also honors our heritage. Historic buildings also tend to have a lot of character that isn’t being done with today’s buildings. There is so much detail and honor to the craftsmanship that makes these buildings special. Explain a challenge specific to this project and how overcame it? Since this project is masonry and window restorations, making sure that the quantities of restoration needed were accounted for was the trickiest part. The portion we were working on included 45 upper windows and 14 storefront windows, but we also inventoried all the other windows on the building for future work. This meant that there were upwards of 250 windows that were observed during the inventory. Just making sure that we were organized, took lots of photos, and understood how much work was needed at each window, along with other areas of the façade were important for this project.

It's interesting to critically consider what makes our historic environment and buildings so compelling, and what we really mean when we ascribe harm. For example, consider this building. To the left is the original late 18th-century dwelling, constructed in redbrick at one and a half storeys. To the right is a large two-storey and basement early 19th-century extension, faced in buff brick. I think we would all agree it's a lovely building, but let's frame it as if this was a modern application. Is the extension sympathetic? Is it subservient? Does it respond to the character and appearance of the principal (18th-century) building? I know from experience that many conservation officers or planning officers would consider an extension at this scale harmful, overly dominant, inappropriate, and that it would proffer insufficient public benefits to outweigh that harm... 150 years later this building, extension and original structure together, are designated at Grade II as a reflection of its architectural interest. The heritage profession could benefit from a critical awareness of how the historic environment has evolved, how it is the product of years of continuous change, rather than a static phenomenon, with a view to considering applications on their merits and a view to the future historic environment. No listed buildings or conservation areas are unaltered, and most of our most highly graded (Grade I and II*) have been subject to significant alterations or extension, which arguably enhance their special interest. Perhaps we should be less scared of changing our historic environment, and more interested in nurturing its continued evolution. What do you think? **sorry if this is your house, I chose it at random on street view (it's a nice house) #heritage #listedbuildings #harm #planning

Preserving Sandstone Walls in Warm Climates: Unveiling the Secrets to Longevity and Beauty. Sandstone walls are timeless pieces of architectural beauty, but in warm climates, they demand special care to maintain their allure and lifespan. The scorching temperatures and relentless sunlight can inflict harm, leading to issues like fading, cracking, and erosion. By incorporating these expert maintenance practices, you can safeguard and cherish your sandstone walls. Let's embark on a journey to protect our historical treasures. To see how: https://lnkd.in/gfY-GM9X #HeritageRestoration #Stonemasonry #PreservingHistory #RJCGroup #Architectural #TimelessCraftsmanship #StoneCarving #LegacyPreservation #RestoringHistory #StoneworkExcellence #CraftingHeritage #StoneRevitalization #AncientStones #HistoricalArchitecture #HeritageConservation #Stonemason #facade #sydney #restoration

By recognizing the significance of these elements and implementing preservation strategies, building owners can guarantee that the distinct charm and character of their heritage building will endure for future generations. Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/ASAyq #weareboldera #adaptivereuse #heritagetoronto #heritagearchitecture #architecture #sustainability #sustainabledesign

Did you know it’s a common misconception that you can't make changes to a listed building? In our latest blog we explore the significance of listed buildings and how, with clear justification, changes can be achieved. At JGA, we’re experts in blending old and new, while respecting the property's legacy. https://lnkd.in/ghFij3v5 #ListedProperties #Guernsey #Heritage #Preservation #Renovation

Bringing buildings back to life Restoration of a listed building takes time - especially when the building has been abandoned for many years and is in poor condition. The building and structure need to be assessed historically and structurally in order to develop a comprehensive scheme for renovation. On this occasion this included site meetings with Heritage Consultants, Historic Carpentry Specialists and Planning Consultants to agree how best to preserve this fine 17th century farmhouse. Working alongside a specialist heritage consultants, archaeologists and structural engineers we have produced a comprehensive schedule of repairs - especially for the repair and retention of the timber frame and the painted brick infill panels - to be carried out during the refurbishment project returning this timber framed building to an attractive and comfortable dwelling once again. #architect #surveyor #buildingrestoration #restoration #listedbuildingrenovation #heritagepreservation #buildingreconstruction #studley #Alcester #architecturedesign #midlandsarchitects #survey #buildingsurvey

In this article we delve into the importance of preserving woodwork in heritage homes and explore strategies for its maintenance. Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AOc1t #weareboldera #adaptivereuse #heritagetoronto #heritagearchitecture #architecture #sustainability #sustainabledesign