The Survey and inspection of External Plasterwork for Repair and Replacement
John   f.  Gleeson BSc. MRICS. AAGrad. Dip.Cons.
The University of Reading , England
 

  
Introduction:
The paper deals largely with examples and practice from the United Kingdom but believes that the principles and guidance presented can relate to all types of buildings in all environments. Also the Conservation principles and philosophy adopted throughout relate to the standard international practices as laid down in the relevant ICOMOS  charters and guidelines .In general the policy of least intervention is considered as the primary objective in all operations .Before commencing any activities it is essential that  a Conservation policy  / statement is prepared and  agreed upon  specific to the project in hand and reconsidered at each phase of operations.

Purpose and Aims:
Before any work commences  it is imperative that the true aims and purpose of the survey and inspection are confirmed . Is the survey and investigation required for a  specific  purpose, eg;

  • To ascertain the general / specific condition of the external plaster work and to prepare a report for future actions .
  • To prepare a schedule of repair , conservation or  restoration .
  • As a response to specific defects causing current concern.
  • To ascertain budget costs for either short or long term future works.
  • To establish the construction and material specification of the existing  plasterwork.
  • To prepare measured drawings of the general elevations or more detailed illustrations of architectural features and ornamentation.
  • To prepare a photographic record of either condition or appearance.
It is more likely the case that the survey and inspection will necessitate a combination of the above operations if not all , but it is essential that a full understanding of what is required and how it can be achieved is formulated before considering any further action . This will ensure that all the necessary information required will be obtained in the most appropriate and economic manner , preventing the need to revisit or carry out further investigations and inspection.

After all this has been considered it is now possible to determine who may be required to assist in obtaining the necessary information. Will it require specialist input from material analysts , building archaeologists, photogrammetry surveyors  or other expert consultation. It will also be necessary at this point to consider any forms of specialist equipment or plant that may be required for the investigations or access provision during the survey and inspection. eg; metal detectors, radiography, thermography ,ultrasonic testing , / hydraulic platforms , towers or full scaffolding.

Before moving on it is extremely useful to prepare an outline of your plan of action which can be developed further and confirmed at a later stage[ see initial inspection ] . This will help set the scene for the larger picture assisting  you in any decisions  that now need to be considered and implemented.   

Index