A conditions assessment is often the first step in assessing the conservation needs of a project.

In a conditions assessment, conservators identify materials and document any deterioration that may be present. This information is critical to the development of appropriate treatments. Assessments vary in size from a small object or individual building component to entire buildings.

JBC provides complete survey and assessment services including coordinating access where man lifts are required.

Each assessment includes deliverables tailored to the client’s needs including written and illustrated reports and drawings. Conditions drawings are often re-purposed into construction drawings showing the locations and extents of deterioration, allowing for more accurate cost estimating and bids.

JBC also prepares Historic Structure Reports (HSRs) in accordance with National Park Service guidelines. HSRs provide documentary, graphic, and physical information about a property's history and condition. These reports are an effective part of the preservation planning process, addressing the owner’s goals for the use or re-use of a property and serving as the primary guide for selecting the most appropriate approach to treatments.

EXPLORATORY PROBES

Exploratory probes involve the removal of the face-element of a façade, finish walls, or other assembly to investigate sub-surface conditions and collect samples for laboratory testing. Because they are destructive, probes are best performed after visual surveys have been assessed, and nondestructive testing has been carried out. This preliminary data will best inform the design team as to where exploratory probes should be conducted, or even whether they are necessary at all.

JBCs conservators are an ideal choice for probe work. Our conservators have a thorough understanding of historical building materials and assemblies. We exercise extreme care in dismantling existing work to prevent or minimize damage and, when the situation requires, we will painstakingly reconstruct probe areas to return them to their as-found condition.