Building Recording

Over the past decade CPAT has developed considerable experience in recording historic buildings. Such surveys are normally undertaken as part of the planning proces, either as an assessment of a buildings significance, or as a condition of planning consent, although recording may also form part of a watching brief.

right: Digital building survey. © CPAT 2506-079

The majority of survey is now undertaken digitally, using the latest reflectorless electronic distance meter (REDM), in conjunction with survey software, which allows accurate three-dimensional recording. This technology enables the surveyor to measure structures remotely, often without the need for scaffolding and ladders. More conventional recording may also be employed to add specific detail, or fill gaps where visual access is limited. The resulting survey drawings can be provided digitally, and may include floor plans, elevations and cross sections.

As well as providing a detailed survey, most projects will also include a photographic survey, adescription of the structure, and an analysis of the fabric and phasing.

left: The roof structure of an 18th-century gazebo at Nantclwyd House, Ruthin. © CPAT 2520-028

As well as forming part of the planning process, detailed building recording can also be a valuable tool for architects. CPAT has experience in working closely with architects to provide the baseline survey from which designs can be developed, as well as facilitating other specialist services such as dendrochronology (tree-ring dating), conservation, and the analysis of paint and wall coverings.

Building recording can also form part of wider-ranging projects and CPAT has been involved with recording three medieval cruck-framed hall-houses where excavation of the interiors has also been undertaken.

Recent building recording projects have included Roundhouse Farm in Nantyglo, Yr Hen Danerdy in Machynlleth, Owain Glyndwr's Parliament House in Machynlleth, and a number of timber-framed barn converstions.

right: 16th-century cruck-framed barn. © CPAT 1682-084

For further information and competitive quotations on any of our services contact:

Bob Silvester, Deputy Director and Head of Field Services
bobsilvester@cpat.org.uk
Direct line 01938 552035

Nigel Jones, Senior Project Archaeologist
nigel@cpat.org.uk
Direct line 01938 552002