Matching Old And New: How Experts Blend Repairs In Heritage Walls
Melbourne has a deep history, and its beautiful heritage-listed buildings reflect this rich history. The city offers an abundance of stunning old houses and many interesting heritage buildings. Buildings like the Royal Exhibition Building, Flinders Street Station, and the Parliament House of Victoria are just a few of the many interesting buildings to go and see if you are looking for something fun to do in the city.
It is very important to properly preserve and maintain these old buildings because they hold so much history. Unfortunately, the repair and maintenance process isn’t always the easiest. Building methods are much different today than they were when these buildings were constructed. To preserve the strength and integrity of these buildings, repair teams need superior skills and craftsmanship.
Let’s take a look at the steps wall restoration companies take when repairing historic buildings in Melbourne.
Research the Building History
Every building tells a story, and these stories can give some clues that come in handy during restoration processes. Before working on an old building, repair teams will first study the building’s origin, materials, and the construction techniques that are used for the property. Even past restorations are studied so potential issues can be avoided.
This research helps restoration teams identify what is historically significant and allows them to work more carefully on delicate parts of the building.
Matching the Materials
The materials used in modern buildings can look quite different from what was used in historic buildings. When heritage buildings or walls are restored, the goal is to make the repair work appear completely invisible.
Restoration teams will try their best to match the materials used in older buildings. This might require repair teams to seek out original brick or stone materials that match the hue and size of the original wall. Mortar is matched in colour and texture, so wall surfaces will be perfectly smooth and seamless. Professionals will also use lime mortars or natural pigments to recreate an authentic effect.
Superior Blending Techniques
Professionals will try to work as seamlessly as possible so the wall and repair work won’t be apparent. A lot of different blending techniques are usually to achieve this seamless and even finish.
Feather joints can be used to transition new materials into old ones. New plaster or render can be textured to mimic the original surface. It is also common to age new stone so it will look very similar to the natural materials used in the rest of the wall.
With features like ornamental plaster, restoration teams will create moulds of the plaster and cast brand new plaster features. These are then fitted in place to restore missing parts or damaged bits of ornamental plaster.
Walls often need to be fully repainted to completely conceal the repairs and to create a smooth and beautiful finish.
Embracing Natural Character
When older buildings are restored, the goal isn’t always to renew every part of the building. Older materials are not always replaced with new materials because this can affect the authentic feel or appearance of the wall. Instead, experts will soften the look of fresh repairs so it will blend perfectly with the older sections of the wall.
Book Now at Melbourne’s Best Heritage Wall Restoration Company
If you want to properly restore an old building without sacrificing its authentic self, then it is best to use a restoration company with the needed skill and equipment. At We Fix Walls, we specialise in wall restoration services. Our team can assist with repairs on any old homes or heritage buildings within the city.
Call We Fix Walls to find out more about our wall restoration service or book us for a site survey to find out what is needed to get your old walls repaired.