Project overview

Exterior restoration and conservation work of a Grade II listed late 16th century timber-framed farmhouse.

Project Overview
The Grade II listed late 16th century timber-framed farmhouse is encased with early 18th century brick elevations to three sides. Exterior restoration and conservation work was required including; the removal of modern cement rendering, re-pointing of brickwork, rebuilding of chimneys, re-rendering with a lime render, and structural work and strapping. Cliveden Conservation was appointed by the client to carry out the work having previously completed trial render removal to the property.

Summary of work carried out
The house was suffering from acute internal damp problems, structural movement, and brick decay. The damp problem was believed to be caused by poor modern cement pointing and rendering (along with high external ground levels that had been lowered prior to our works). In collaboration with the client and the local conservation officer, Cliveden Conservation helped secure the relevant listed building consents and approvals before starting works.

Work began with the removal of cementitious render and pointing. As specified by a structural engineer, extensive structural work was undertaken on both the timber frame and brickwork.

Conservators used a cork lime render to insulate the property and allow it to breathe. As specified by the local conservation officer, the team used tuck pointing on the principal façade. Flush lime repointing was used for the remaining brick facades.

New rainwater goods were installed as part of the project to upgrade the existing system.

The property remained inhabited throughout the works. The scope of work increased considerably from the original specification due to the unearthing of structural issues and the additional requirement for tuck-pointing methods issued by the conservation officer.

Cliveden Conservation stonemasons discovered that two of the chimneys were in very poor structural condition. One of the chimneys needed rebuilding, and extensive strapping was required before both chimneys were repointed and made watertight once more.

Results
The work carried out will improve the building’s historic dampness and structural problems, but the overall impact will become more apparent over time. Cliveden Conservation has achieved great aesthetically pleasing results using the correct materials and crafts. The team were able to deliver quality conservation work whilst offering expert advice and responding to an increasing scope of work and changing specification.The well executed tuck-pointing has enhanced the principal façade. The client was pleased with the outcome and has requested quotes for further internal work on the house.