From: spabfim-list-bounce@fatbeehive.com on behalf of bulletin@spabfim.org.uk

Sent: 01 December 2010 11:05

To: list@spabfim.org.uk

Subject: Monthly Email Bulletin - December 2010

	Welcome to December's Faith in Maintenance email bulletin. This month our subject is looking after painted timber surfaces. If you have a subject that you would like us to cover in a future bulletin let us know by emailing the team at info@spabfim.org.uk.  Things to think about... For the majority of medieval buildings oak was the principle timber in use for structural and decorative features. In most cases the oak was left untreated as it is naturally resistant to decay although there is evidence that in some areas oak was routinely limewashed. Though many people now favour regular treatment with exterior grade linseed or tung oil this is not necessary in terms of its performance. Left to its own devices oak will weather to an attractive silvery grey colour and will withstand the elements quite adequately without a protective surface finish. However from the late seventeenth century onwards, softwoods (pine, spruce and fir) began to replace hardwoods such as oak as the most commonly used timber in building construction. Although slow grown pine with a high resin content can be a fairly durable material, poor quality softwood from quickly grown trees can deteriorate extremely rapidly in an external environment. This is why all softwoods require a coat of paint or some other finish in order to protect them from decay. You should therefore include the regular recoating of painted timber surfaces in your ongoing maintenance programme. You should also inspect all external timberwork, including any doors, windows, fascias and bargeboards, annually to ensure that the paint surface is in good condition. If the finish has blistered or cracked then water will be able to penetrate into the timber where it may become trapped and lead to decay.  Things to do... When it comes to choosing a paint system there are a number of options available. If your building is Grade I or II* listed you are still permitted to use traditional lead paints, although their use is strictly controlled by the Environmental Protection (Controls on Injurious Substances) Regulations 1992. The benefits of lead paint are its unrivalled durability on timber, its flexibility and its ability to ‘breathe'. Its texture, depth of colour and mellow appearance are also difficult to emulate with newer alternatives. However, you do need to think carefully about the safety aspects of working with (and especially removing) lead paint. A possible alternative might be to use linseed oil paint. These paints have been in use for many years and are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Most are also solvent free although the disadvantage is that they can take quite a long time to dry and require some skill to apply successfully. Another option might be a water-borne acrylic paint. These can be glossy or matt and do not contain solvents. They also tend to be quick-drying, flexible and easy to use although they need to be applied to clean wood, which is free of old failing paint layers, to achieve their best performance. A few tips about choosing and applying paint: If you are unsure about the most appropriate choice of paint for your building seek advice from your professional adviser. You are likely to get a better result from choosing a better quality (more expensive) paint. Cheap external paint systems may not have a long service life. It is extremely important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and to make sure that you carry out any recommended preparation properly. If you don't, you may find that your paint systems fails very quickly. Further information ‘Paint, Wood and Weather' by Colin Mitchell-Rose ~ see the Building Conservation Directory website. ‘Traditional Paints' by Colin Mitchell-Rose ~ see the Building Conservation Directory website. Need more help? If you have any questions about maintenance or repair issues contact our Technical Helpline for advice and guidance.  This service is normally available on Fridays between 9.30am and 3.30pm on 0207 456 0916. Alternatively you can mail your questions to advice@spabfim.org.uk. Copies of the SPAB's range of Technical Pamphlets and Information Sheets are available to purchase from our online bookshop. Sara Crofts Faith in Maintenance Project Director Stave off decay by daily care ~ William Morris 1877
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