Laser Scanning for Architectural Conservation

Laser scanning has, over the past five years, become a technique of interest to those undertaking or requiring architectural measured surveys for archaeology, architectural conservation, and documentation of historic buildings. Variously called 3D or terrestrial laser scanning, the technique provides an interesting opportunity to augment existing recording and measurement methods and offers new ways of displaying and presenting spatial relationships. This paper outlines the technique and examines its application in architectural conservation, and includes a selection of examples that illustrate its use. Finally, it provides a summary intended to help users understand when and how laser scanning could be used.