WEATHERING AND CONSERVATION STUDIES AT WELLS CATHEDRAL, ENGLAND

Abstract

A variety of studies have been carried out at the medieval cathedral at Wells in south-west England including studies of the weathering characteristics of the medieval statuary on the West Front. The ease with which sulphur dioxide can attack, the stone is related to the microstructure of the stone. The role of lichen and other organic growths in the degradation of the stonework has also been examined. Limited trials of traditional and non-traditional stone conservation techniques have also been undertaken. Currently the effects of pollution weathering at Wells are being examined. This involves the monitoring of the pollution climate and the exposure of samples of building materials including different types of stone, metal and surface finishes. Two different sets of samples are exposed at Wells because the site is part of the United Kingdom National Materials Exposure Programme and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe Programmes on the effect of acid deposition on building materials. Wells Cathedral also forms part of a wider study on the perception by visitors of the weathering of buildings by and the relationship of this to the general public's financial valuation of historic buildings.