Conservation and the Stonemason

AbstractThere have been great changes in the masonry trade in recent years. With the growth in stone conservation, together with radical changes in training and the increase in numerically-controlled machinery, there has been some loss of tradition and standards. Very few non-masons have any real insight into the skills of the trade, with repairs in solid stone capable of a far higher degree of accuracy than is often realized.There must be an informed understanding and explanation of the philosophy behind any repair programme. The difference between conservation and preservation must be identified, and there must be a distinction made between living buildings, with a roof and a potential function, and archaeological monuments. The use of foreign materials does not preserve the integrity of the design, and while the rampant stonemason must not be given free licence on historic buildings, conservation by replacement maintains the continuity of purpose and enhances the visual enjoyment, which the general public has some right to expect. Additional informationNotes on contributorsPeter HillBiographyPeter Hill was in turn stonemason and setter-out at York Minster, and Clerk of the Works at Lincoln cathedral. He is now a stone consultant, and lectures on archaeological and modern masonry techniques.