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MAINTENANCE

Some examples

• Architectural metalwork and stone.
• Ornamental Ironwork, including Gates and Railings
• Statues and Monuments including contemporary sculpture
• Memorials and headstones.
• Fountains and plaques

Prevention begins with maintenance. The ongoing care and maintenance of statues and monuments is essential for the preservation of these great works of art, emblems of our civic pride and artistic/historical heritage. Many important statues, monuments and historical fountains and plaques suffer from complete neglect and some have been near destroyed by misguided or inappropriate cleaning by unqualified or untrained individuals.

This neglect and lack of expertise may result in the need for significant and costly restoration work in the future or in some cases even the total loss of the feature or object. With the appropriate cleaning and maintenance, public art, including contemporary artwork, historical monuments, memorials and plaques should not need significant remedial work. The clarity and richness of delicately patinated surfaces can be monitored and maintained by the renewal of protective coatings and surface treatments.

For those that have already been neglected, inspection by a qualified conservator can ascertain whether there is evidence of active corrosion, evaluate structural stability and monitor the condition of any protective coatings. Advice as to the appropriate procedure or maintenance program can be given and implemented.

Objects placed outdoors suffer from the effects of environmental pollution and all too often vandalism and graffiti. Regular maintenance through prompt removal of graffiti dissuades would-be vandals. Protective coatings protect objects from the corrosive effects of the atmosphere and if necessary, coatings can assist in the future removal of graffiti. Indoor objects also require maintenance considerations but usually somewhat less than external counterparts.

Pedestals and stonework may need re-pointing every 5 years or so and stone sculpture; particularly those placed outside should be monitored regularly. Periodic removal of biological growth and surface contaminants may be needed. Further treatments may become necessary and continual observations should be made of any salt contamination or other processes that are detrimental to integrity of the surface and treated if required.

Painted objects i.e. ornamental ironwork and architectural metalwork such as gates and railings also need observation with the reapplication of paint systems and other treatments every 5 to 10 years, historical information as to original painting schemes or gilding can also be ascertained during restoration.