MISSON

The principals of minimum intervention, reversibility of methods, separation of new from old and minimum removal of original material are articulated from centuries of research, application and progress. These principals can only be applied with a thorough knowledge of the causes of the problems and the systems, methods and products available to deal with these problems.

PASSION

We at the Damp Store have kept abreast of the ever-changing solutions to the various problems of decay and dampness. Even with modern technology the solution to or at least the slowing down of this deterioration presents a major challenge particularly when corralled by the principals that govern the organisation and application of conservation intervention.

OUR COMPANY

Over the years we have developed conservation skills to know when a particular system, method or material is or is not suitable and to work with a design team adopting and put into action the most suitable solution to be able to respect the architecture, arts and crafts of the past. But at the same time endeavour to prolong the life of a structure for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Architectural conservation aims to protect, preserve, and care for historical, cultural, or architecturally important buildings, monuments, and sites so that future generations can enjoy their historical value. In Ireland, this can sometimes mean rehabilitating aged structures susceptible to rising dampness in ways that stabilize and protect them from further water penetration and deterioration while retaining their unique qualities.

Methods of building conservation treatment include:

  • Maintenance and repair of existing historic materials 
  • Replacing any deteriorated components with new materials that closely match the originals
  • Adapting sites for modern uses without damaging the integrity 
  • Introducing building conservation treatments like damp-proof membranes to counteract rising damp
  • Improving drainage around foundations
  • Regulating future changes
  • Documenting conservation work while ensuring complete reversibility

Building conservation in Ireland is important because historic structures hold cultural significance, generations-old workmanship, community identity, and civic pride that would vanish forever if sites were lost to decay or incompatible renovations, especially with rising damp, threatening aged buildings. Conservation maintains these historic sites and their rich histories while allowing modern upgrades for continued use.

Conserving historic buildings in Ireland entails preserving every aspect of the structure. This includes exterior details, such as decorative features, rooflines, windows, and materials, as well as interior components, like fireplaces, paneling, staircases, and period construction techniques, that contribute to a structure’s special interest and heritage value. Careful restoration and quick action against damage, especially rising dampness, are important parts of conservation.

In Ireland, economic pressure to maximize returns by demolishing older properties with dampness and other issues to make way for more profitable new developments threatens historic building preservation.

One example of building conservation architecture is renovating a historically significant Irish building susceptible to rising damp with modern humidity and ventilation enhancements to create drier conditions while carefully preserving key period details.