Policy Statement
Batten and Beam Ltd is committed to the sensitive repair, conservation, and long-term stewardship of historic buildings. Our work is guided by ethics of minimal intervention, honesty of materials, reversibility where possible, and respect for the building’s original fabric, character, and craftsmanship.
We believe that traditional buildings must be treated with understanding, care, and integrity. Our methods follow the principles endorsed by SPAB, Historic England, and BS 7913: Guide to the Conservation of Historic Buildings.
1. Conservation Philosophy
We are guided by the following principles:
1.1 Repair Rather Than Replace
We prioritise retaining existing historic fabric wherever possible. Replacement is only undertaken when:
- The original material has failed beyond repair
- Structural stability or safety is compromised
Even then, we replace like for like using traditional materials and techniques.
1.2 Minimal Intervention
We intervene only as much as is necessary to resolve the defect or deterioration. We avoid unnecessary removal, rebuilding, or alteration.
1.3 Honesty & Evidence-Based Decisions
All work is based on:
- Building pathology
- Historical understanding
- Material science
- Conservation best practice
We will never conceal defects, falsify finishes, or artificially “age” elements to misrepresent history.
1.4 Reversibility
Where possible, interventions should be reversible without damaging original fabric, allowing future conservation specialists to work with full clarity.
1.5 Breathability & Moisture Management
We will never use materials or systems that trap moisture or compromise the natural performance of traditional buildings (e.g., cement on lime-built structures, impermeable paints, inappropriate insulation).
Breathable construction is essential to the longevity of heritage buildings.
2. Materials & Craftsmanship
We commit to:
- Using traditional materials such as lime mortar, breathable plasters, traditional joinery timber, and milled or hand-dressed lead.
- Ensuring material compatibility with original building fabric.
- Avoiding modern products that can cause long-term damage.
- Sourcing materials responsibly from reputable suppliers.
- Applying craftsmanship that reflects the building’s period, method of construction, and character.
Where modern materials are appropriate, we apply them with full understanding of their performance and heritage impact.
3. Understanding the Building
Before beginning any conservation work, we undertake:
- Detailed visual inspection
- Moisture mapping or damp investigation (breathable-first approach)
- Documentation of defects, materials, and historic features
- Consideration of the building’s history, style, and previous alterations
This ensures our interventions are informed, sensitive, and appropriate.
4. Consultation & Collaboration
We commit to working collaboratively with:
- Conservation officers Historic England advisers
- Architects and surveyors
- Local heritage groups
- Building owners and custodians
We recognise that conservation is a shared responsibility.
We respect the advice of heritage professionals and maintain open, transparent communication across all projects.
5. Ethical Practice
Batten and Beam Ltd will:
- Never compromise on traditional building best practice to “save time” or reduce cost.
- Provide honest advice, even when it conflicts with modern expectations.
- Avoid unnecessary or overly invasive works for financial gain.
- Ensure all actions prioritise the long-term preservation of the building.
We believe that integrity is at the heart of conservation.
6. Training & Competence
We ensure that our team:
- Receives ongoing training in traditional building skills.
- Understands heritage legislation, ethics, and conservation philosophy.
- Is familiar with SPAB principles, Historic England guidance, and BS 7913.
- Develops specialist skills in joinery, lime, masonry, roofing, and timber repair.
We actively promote continuous professional development (CPD) in heritage techniques.
7. Documentation & Record-Keeping
We maintain clear records of:
- Materials used
- Methods applied
- Areas of intervention
- Before-and-after photography
- Site notes for conservation continuity
This supports transparency, future maintenance, and heritage value.
8. Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility
Our conservation approach prioritises sustainability through:
- Retention of original fabric
- Low-carbon traditional materials
- Reduced waste
- Responsible sourcing
- Longevity of workmanship
Heritage repair is inherently sustainable, and we aim to protect both buildings and the wider environment.
9. Policy Monitoring & Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if new legislation, guidance, or conservation principles develop.
