For heritage work to be carried out sympathetically there must be a proper understanding of the original construction and finishings.
Heritage Restoration
A noteworthy heritage building conserved by Brookvale Stone is the Moore Park Toll House which was built in 1860. Over the years, the harsh Australian weather led to the deterioration and structural integrity of this historical landmark.
Works partially consisted of the removal of all cementitious joints. Each delaminated quoin was pinned and hydraulic lime mortar patch repaired. Cills that had passed the point of repair were replaced. Using traditional methods and specialist skills we brought the unique style of this old toll house back to its deserved status.
Conservation
Sandstones generally pose particular challenges when it comes to conservation and repair due to variation in their constitution. The methods of repair and philosophy of conservation that are appropriate depend, therefore, on a detailed analysis and understanding of the stone characteristics involved, the physical and environmental conditions that prevail and detailed historical research into previous repairs or other influences that may have affected the chemical integrity or equilibrium of the material.
Other factors affected by the physical properties of the sandstone include vulnerability to staining by natural weathering and atmospheric pollution. If they are also vulnerable to inappropriate cleaning techniques, changes to their appearance can be permanent.
In view of these characteristics and the fact that weaker beds of stone are very vulnerable to salt crystallisation decay and subsequent wind erosion or other chemical attack, it is clear that replacement stone requires careful selection.