Documentation: Prior to treatment, the remains of the Bratton store were photographed and measured documents were produced with annotated conditions.
Bratton Store, Plan
Slave House, Plan
Bratton Store Chimney, East and North Elevations
Slave House, East Elevation
Cleaning: The first phase of the treatment process was undertaken to address the general surface soiling and localized dark staining was observed during the condition assessment process. Cleaning mockups were performed prior to cleaning the entire structure using hose-pressure water and selected masonry cleaning products.
Consolidant Testing: Numerous under-fired and actively deteriorating bricks were also noted during the condition assessment process. Moisture absorption tests were performed to assess the effectiveness of an ethyl silicate consolidant to stabilize under-fired bricks using sacrificial material gathered from the site.
Repointing and Brick Replacement: Areas of failing mortar and heavily deteriorating bricks were noted, removed, and replaced in sections. Care was taken to create a new pointing and bedding mortar that was aesthetically and mechanically compatible. Replacement bricks were selected from spare, historic masonry stock and were known to be similar in material, manufacture, and age.
After removing the failing pointing mortar with a hammer and chisel, a bristle brush was used to remove any remaining debris from the joint.
Actively deteriorating bricks were remove in sections and replaced with stable but compatible bricks.
After the bedding mortar was allowed to partially cure, fresh pointing mortar was applied.
Bratton Store Chimney, West and South Elevations
