Historic Brickwork Masterclass: Repair of Historic Walls

Historic Brickwork Masterclass: Repair of Historic Brick Walls

14 July 2021, 09:30 - 17:00 (BST)

FULLY BOOKED 

Boxley Abbey and St Andrew's Chapel, Boxley, Maidstone

Course Tutors: Lynn Matthias, Myles Matthias and George Hodgeson

This one day course will outline the repair principles, survey methods, and techniques required to repair freestanding historic brick walls. Using the SPAB's Boxley Abbey Working Party venue and Old House Project as a case study, this course will combine lectures, demonstrations and hands-on activities to provide delegates with a clear understanding of how to approach the repair of a historic brick wall. 

The introductory talk will cover the following topics:

• Characteristics of free-standing brick walls
• Survey and recording of historic brickwork
• Brick bonding details
• Causes of deterioration, common defects and common failures within a historic brick wall
• Specifications and repair techniques 
• Criteria for repair vs replacement
• Remedial repairs to mortar joints
• Gauged brickwork repairs
• Brief introduction to Lime
• Characteristics of historic bricks
• How to make decisions based on the SPAB approach

After lunch, the course tutors will demonstrate the below, inviting delegates to get hands-on practice:

• Replacing/repairing bricks
• Cutting out decayed joints and repointing plus plastic repairs
• Bedding and squaring of a ‘red' rubbing brick

Participants are welcome to bring samples of historic brick and mortar or photographs from their own conservation projects.

The course aims to provide the following learning outcomes:

• To understand the characteristics of bricks used in historic buildings
• To develop the ability to assess brick work condition, to identify brick types and typical defects commonly found in historic masonry
• To understand the various materials and techniques used in the repair and conservation of historic brickwork
• To develop the skills necessary to carry out remedial work to brickwork including joint treatment, mortar (plastic) repairs and brick replacements

Combining lectures, site visits, practical demonstrations and hands-on workshops, the SPAB masterclasses are designed for those who are professionally involved with buildings (e.g. architects, surveyors, engineers, planners, builders, contractors, craftsmen and women). The masterclasses are recognised for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC). Certificates of attendance are available for delegates.

This masterclass will be led by Lynn Mathias. Lynn is Principal of Mathias Restoration Ltd and has worked with brick and flint in the conservation sector for over 30 years. He learned many of his skills and techniques from his father while also gaining a City and Guilds qualification.

Refreshments and lunch will be served and covered within the course fee. We aim to finish the course for 5pm. 

Personal Protective Equipment will be available for delegates to use if they do not have their own. All equipment will be sanitised before use. All delegates will need to bring their own steel toe cap boots.

In accordance with Goverment Guidelines, all delegates and staff will adhere to social distancing measures. Face masks will be provided for all delegates and will need to be worn at all times whilst on site, unless you are exempt. 

Booking Terms & Conditions

Accessibility: please contact the SPAB before booking to discuss any special access requirements.