Dartmoor National Park Authority

Maintaining Your Historic Building

Few would question the benefits of regular maintenance for their car and likewise the importance of regular maintenance of traditional buildings cannot be over-stated. However, just as important is that maintenance is undertaken in the appropriate materials and techniques. Poorly executed maintenance and repairs or those undertaken in inappropriate materials can result in long term and serious damage to historic buildings, which can be expensive, destructive and disruptive to remedy.

Some people today like to undertake maintenance work themselves but often are concerned that they do not have the knowledge and experience to use traditional methods of maintenance and repair. The Authority can advise on the availability of both local and national amenity groups such as the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings (external site, opens new window) and the Devon Earth Building Association who can provide owners with guidance and information leaflets. Also, courses in traditional repairs are available nationally and locally for all levels of experience and information on these can be provided.

Page updated 7 December 2009