Thatched roofs are one of the most evocative symbols of the British countryside; thatched buildings are our best-loved. Thatch was the commonest roof covering throughout much of the country until the end of the 19th century, and remains a viable, sustainable solution for many rural buildings. This article sets out the do's and don'ts.
Old roofs of clay plain tiles aren’t all the same. Old peg tiles had individuality and details varied locally. With care, their character can be maintained.
Beaten, twisted, cut or cast, ornate designs bear out the skill and artistry of early craftsmen. And surviving examples are under threat.
The type of mortar that someone proposes for repointing joints in the walls of an old building is a good test of whether they should be working on such buildings at all. Douglas Kent, the SPAB Technical and Research Director, explains why - and what you do if an inappropriate cement mortar has been used.
French drains are not French, but are definitely drains, and sometimes useful ones at that! This article explains when they might be used to fight damp.
