December 14, 2007

Book Review - Building Stone Decay

Building Stone Decay: From Diagnosis to Conservation
Edited by R. Prikryl and B. J. Smith
TH 1201 .E77 2005

This collection of essays bridges the gaps between architecture, engineering, and conservation. The book begins with a collection of essays providing a representative sampling of endangered stone architecture from around the world. The next two sections focus on patterns and processes of decay. Included here are a variety of different decay causes--fire, weather, mineral causes--and how to assess and monitor the extent of degradation. Decay caused by salt is significant enough to warrant its own group of chapters. Several common stones used in building are examined. Finally, a group of summary chapters consider the use of stone generally, in conservation projects specifically, and implications for ruins and historical architecture.