A Future for the Past

Proceedings of the Conference of English Heritage and the Cathedral Architects Association, March 1994.

It reports on the first three years of strategic technical research in English Heritage's cathedral grants system. Although specially commissioned to investigate decay problems faced by cathedrals, the findings should also be applicable to historic buildings of other types which are suffering the ravages of material decay and deterioration. All chapters are illustrated, and conclude with question and answer sessions from the conference. Interim reports on exprimental work-in-progress are included, with the aim of benefiting the wider conservation community and all concerned with the repair and maintenance of existing buildings.

Topics include:

• decay of purbeck limestones

• conservation mortars

• stone consolidants

• fire research

• timber decay

• underside lead corrosion

• tile floor wear