Simple measures and techniques help safeguard historic buildings in a changing climate

Key Learnings

• Assessing existing solutions: The continued use of original materials and traditional methods is a fundamental preservation principle for historic buildings. Climate change challenges current practices, requiring the assessment and adjustment of existing solutions to preserve historic buildings in a changing climate.
• Prepare for the future: It is essential to manage building heritage so that it can withstand the increased stresses a changing climate will bring.  

Summary

The restoration of Mandal Church in Lindesnes, Norway, emphasises the importance of adapting historic buildings to climate change. Simple measures, such as reusing old cladding and adding gaps to allow air flow, reduce humidity in the wood, prevent mould, and preserve historic buildings. Increased humidity and milder temperatures have caused moisture damage, primarily due to the lack of ventilation in the church’s cladding. The restoration team assessed the building's condition and implemented a solution by remounting the cladding with a 25 mm gap, allowing airflow to prevent rot while maintaining 90% of the original materials. This approach both preserves cultural heritage and enhances the building’s resilience to future climate challenges.

Contact

Lindesnes joint church council