Summary

In five volumes, Practical Building Conservation provides a comprehensive and practical reference source for those involved in restoration, preservation, repair or maintenance of historic buildings. Architects, surveyors and building contractors will find it essential reading - whether they are responsible for repairing a large, historic site or part of the fabric of a small one.The authors consider the complete range of materials and the problems likely to occur with each. Chemical, mechanical and other forms of treatment are analysed with precise information on which form of restoration works best in each particular case. This is backed up by practical advice - covering everything from complicated repair processes (simply explained) to the removal of ground-in chewing gum from paving stones.The other volumes in this series include: stone masonry; brick, terracotta and earth; plasters, mortars and renders; metals.Volume 5 Wood, Glass and Resins examines the repair and treatment of timber and glass; a short chapter on the use of resins in conservation has also been added.The sections on wood analyse the problems of fungi, insects, and timer distortion and explore the use of substitute materials and finishes for external surfaces. Techniques for conservation of historic glass include an evaluation of cleaning methods, treatment of paint loss and how to protect glass from vandalism, breakage and the problems of variable climatic conditions.An important feature of this book is the 35 page Select Technical Bibliography representing all five volumes in the series.