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Bath Abbey - Bath

Cleaning and conservation of the interior

This very substantial project took nearly two years to complete. A complex and sympathetically designed scaffold was erected to allow access to all areas of the Abbey without interfering with the day activities.

Over the centuries, the use of coal fires and gas heating had led to a significant build of dirt and grime on all surfaces and the emphasis on this project was simply on cleaning. However, areas of polychrome in the chancel required considerable conservation; the paint of the spandrels had darkened and become detached from the substrate so it was removed and, after careful research and analysis, and hand mixing of paints, the original scheme was re-introduced. Other areas of polychrome were discovered beneath layers of limewash and following cross sectional analysis these were consolidated and cleaned.

Much of the plain stonework was cleaned using warm water and brushes but there were some areas which had been treated with shellac and linseed oil and these required various poultices in order to lift the dirt from the surface. Complex carved areas were often cleaned using steam.

The very large number of marble and stone memorials which cover all the nave and transept walls were cleaned and emergency repairs carried out.

The project included a great deal of recording and research which provided a lot of hitherto unknown information about the various restorations. The whole contract embraced a sensitive combination of research, individual techniques for cleaning, sound ethical decisions and, above all, the dedication of the team of conservators.

Architect: Alan Hardiman
Client: Bath Abbey