It provides essential information on the properties of the principal traditional external building materials. Their availability, sourcing and environmental impact is covered, as well as the causes of erosion and decay, and the skills required for their application on conservation projects.

It covers the main most commonly used materials and conservation techniques including stone, brickwork, lime products, concrete, iron and steel, timber, wattle and daub, and glass,

Thirteen chapters written by the experts present today’s key issues in materials and skills for historic building conservation: Gus Astley, Patrick Baty, Charley Brentnall, Michael Bussell, Michael Forsyth, Tony Graham, Chris Harris, David McLaughlin, Brian Ridout, Mike Stock, Geoff Wallis, Ian Williams, Rory Young