Gwynne Anthony 2020

ART506 Dissertation 2019. Anthony Gwynne . 20 Traditional buildings were constructed using methods handed down over the centuries, typically of solid wall construction using brick, stone, timber and earth, using lime-based mortars, plasters and renders. These materials are porous and naturally allow moisture to be absorbed and then evaporate away through walls, floor and roof, draughts through windows, doors and chimneys. This vapour permeability acted as a ‘control’ against dampness that can harm the building fabric and prevent mould growth that can affect people’s health (www.lime.org.uk) . Caring appropriately for traditional buildings requires an understanding of how they were constructed and how they function, only then is it possible to identify the right compatible materials to repair or renovate them. This is particularly important when dealing with historic or listed buildings which requires a sympathetic approach (www.lime.org.uk ). Certain works carried out to existing buildings may be regarded as repairs and will not require Building Regulations approval, however, other works may be regarded as 'building work' and will required Building Regulations approval and may have to comply with modern standards in compliance with the current Building Regulations (www.legislation.gov.uk) . Such works should be specified and carried out by a suitably qualified and experienced conservation specialist. 3.2.3 Traditional 'breathing' (vapour permeable) construction Buildings built before 1919 were constructed with technologies handed down through generations which allowed the building to breathe naturally through vapour permeation and is termed traditional construction (www.lime.org.uk ). The building fabric was constructed in natural materials, typically with solid walls of stone in lime mortar or cob with lime render and plaster finishes providing good permeability and flexibility. Details of lime mortars, plasters and renders are provided in Appendix D. External surfaces were designed to deflect the rain, penetrating and rising damp was absorbed by the structure that allowed the moisture to evaporate away naturally through the porous surfaces preventing trapped moisture. Natural ventilation was provided through gaps in poorly fitting windows and doors and through chimneys, keeping the building in a state of equilibrium (Figure 4) .