CASE STUDIES

Historic Building Repairs

Historic Building Repairs

Cademuir Building Consultants have been involved in a number of substantial repair projects to a fine Scottish Baronial Category A listed country house in the Scottish Borders which dates back to the mid-17th century.

With each issue that has arisen CBC have identified the nature and cause of the defect and undertaken intrusive investigations to identify the extent of affected areas. Thereafter, CBC have advised on the remedial work required and specification of materials to be used. A conservation approach was essential to ensure the historical fabric of the building was not unduly disturbed and a pragmatic approach was taken whilst working within finite budgets.

Where possible previous inappropriate repair methods were reversed such as reinstating lead in place of zinc to roofs and lime mortar in place of cement pointing. CBC engaged specialist contractors on behalf of the Client and monitored their works, cost variations and valuations through to successful completion. Advice on listed building consent considerations was provided.

Individual projects have included:

  • Re-roofing and gutters repairs to the east wing and repairs to wet rot decayed structural timbers below. 
  • Reconstruction of 2 south facing bartizans including reconstructing upper masonry due to instability, replacing the domed roof structures owing to partial collapse through decay and replacing the lead coverings replicating all original detailing. Weathervanes were refurbished and reinstated. 
  • Repairs following extensive dry rot episode to master bedroom and dressing room and attic rooms above. Remedial works included the full strip out of all affected linings, timbers and partitions, timber safe lintel replacements, floor joist repairs, wall lining reinstatements and external parapet masonry repairs, re-slating and parapet gutter reconstruction (the initial cause of water ingress and dry rot). 
  • Structural repairs to external arcade walls.