Historic Brickwork Masterclass: Repair of Gauged Brickwork

Event details

22 May 2020, 09.30-16.00

The SPAB are thrilled to be partnering once again with Historic Royal Palaces to run this one-day masterclass on the study of gauged brickwork repair and looking at the specific requirements when dealing with finely gauged brick, using the Kensington Palace Orangery as a live case study.

Combining lectures, site visits, practical demonstrations and hands-on workshops, these 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 Emma Simpson - a brickwork conservation specialist with over 20 years of knowledge and expertise in this field.

COURSE OUTLINE:

Lecture (using case studies):

•  The characteristics of rubbing bricks and appropriate mortars
•  Common causes of decay and failure
•  Repair of gauged arches
•  Cut and rubbed mouldings
•  Kensington Palace Orangery brief background
•  Specific failures identified at the Orangery and possible causes
•  Development of the scope of repairs
•  Philosophical challenges
• Techniques and methodologies employed in the repairs

Practical Session 1:

• Discussion and examination of a live project
• A scaffold tour of the Kensington Palace Orangery project, with a chance to see work in progress and completed repairs
• Discussion of tools and materials
• Health and safety briefing
• Demonstration of basic bedding and squaring techniques in the workshop

Practical Session 2:

• Demonstration and instruction on repair techniques
• Replacement of individual gauged bricks 
• Cutting out, making templates, bedding in new bricks
• Re-pointing tight gauged work
• Plastic repair work demonstration

Please note: delegates will need to be prepared with steel toe-capped footwear and suitable clothing; all other PPE will be provided on the day. 

Booking Terms & Conditions

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