What happens to the fabric of a building if it remains soiled? What cleaning methods should be used? Will chemicals cause damage to the building? What are the long term effects of cleaning? While there are no easy answers to these questions, it is now evident that many recent cleaning disasters could have been avoided if the right approach had been adopted. In two volumes this important new guide offers essential practical guidance on appropriate cleaning techniques. Based on the author's extensive on-site involvement in many cleaning and surface repair projects, these books examine the pro's and con's of the various cleaning practices along with the role and need for analysis of substrates and soiling. Supported by valuable case study material and photographs, will present the practitioner with an informed view of the right action to take. 1994, hardback.

This revised edition of a successful 1986 publication presents a comprehensive reference manual for building owners, architects and contractors whose responsibility it is to repair the walls, faces and details of historic buildings. Written by leading experts in their fields, and thoroughly updated to include the latest research, the book describes the nature of building materials, the forces that cause deterioration, the steps and tools needed for inspecting condition, and methods necessary for renovation and repair. 1997, 256pp., paper.

Covers virtually every aspect of a cleaning project - identifying building materials to be cleaned and ones that might be affected by cleaning; scheduling cleaning around other work; what to ask for in cleaning "specs"; and what kind of test cleaning procedures to use. Useful chart summarizes cleaners and removal techniques, bibliography. 1988, paper, 34 pp.

Owners of old houses are often baffled by the confusing advice they receive from their builders, architects or surveyors who may be more familiar with repairing modern buildings than dealing with the issues associated with traditional houses. Old houses generally require a different approach, one, for instance, which takes account of their need to ‘breathe’. Modern solutions do not always recognise that need.

This book will help owners, builders and all construction professionals make the decisions that are right for old buildings. It illustrates the long term benefits of using more traditional solutions on older houses rather than modern materials like cement based mortars, sealants or impervious paints.

Provides wide-ranging advice on everything from selecting and using the best materials for exterior work, to applying the most efficient wood stripping methods, to mastering the art of hanging wallpaper. Packed with illustrations, case studies, tricks-of-the-trade and time-saving tips, this hands-on guide gives the know-how to handle problems involving, tools & equipment, specialty finishes, floor refinishing, and more. 1997, 336pp., hardcover.

Amply illustrated guide provides detailed information on how to refurbish windows within current preservation standards.  Packed with useful, hands-on material, it focuses on window problems, maintenance and replacement.  1992, paper.

When this series first appeared in 1875, it was considered the best textbook on the subject, as it provided comprehensive coverage of all aspects of building construction work. This new reprint of the revised 1904 edition, in 3 volumes, contains over 1,350 pages of text and useful line drawings. Volume 1 covers brickwork, carpentry and roofing, giving detailed practical guidance on all aspects of the work and offering definitions of the terms used. Volume 2 includes sections on joinery, stairs and floors with Volume 3 providing detailed information on materials, including stone, brickwork, lime and paint. 2004, 1376 pp (3 volumes), hardback.

This RILEM Report Series examines all aspects of the cleaning of facades, subject to soiling by both biological and non-biological agents. The contributors are international authorities working in this field, giving essential advice to all those who need to know how to approach these problems. 1988, 200pp.

The author explains how traditional structures work and how they are affected by the soil that supports them. The most common sources of structural damage are listed with the more serious and progressive ones described in detail as an aid to diagnosis and prognosis. An understanding of prognosis enables repairers to decide whether urgent intervention is necessary or whether to allow the problem to run its course. A straightforward method is proposed for arriving at the most suitable remedy. Several typical repairs are illustrated. The book covers many allied topics, including the principles of conservation, health and safety and preventative maintenance. 1999, 320 pp, (hard cover).