Question 1

What does heritage restoration involve?

Accepted Answer

Heritage restoration repairs and conserves original fabric such as paint, sandstone, brick, timber and decorative metalwork, rather than replacing it. Work begins with understanding the building's significance and the condition of each element, then uses compatible materials and methods so repairs protect the building and remain legible as part of its history.

Question 2

Do you work to the Burra Charter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our approach follows the Burra Charter principle of doing as much as necessary but as little as possible. Every intervention is recorded for the conservation file, and works are planned to meet NSW Heritage Act requirements, conservation management plans and heritage consent conditions while still complying with the National Construction Code.

Question 3

Can you match original heritage paint colours?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Paint scrapes and layer analysis can reveal earlier colour schemes, which are then matched and recorded. Where historic paints may contain lead, the coating is tested first and removed safely under controlled conditions. New systems are chosen for compatibility with the original substrate so the restored finish breathes and weathers well.

Question 4

Do you restore sandstone and masonry?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We clean, repair and consolidate sandstone and brick using methods suited to the material, including gentle cleaning, desalination to draw out damaging salts, repointing with compatible lime mortars and stone repairs. The aim is to slow decay and retain original fabric rather than introduce harder materials that cause further damage.