This grade 1 listed church with history back to 1180 had softwood flooring blocks dating back to a major restoration in the 1870s, but due to damp and general wear, had come loose and were a hazard to those visiting this historic monument.
Stanford-Le-Hope Church
Project Description
The Challenge
Oak blocks of the same size were chosen in a character grade, these had to be 40mm thick and dried to a moisture content to match the colder and damper environment of this ancient building. Moisture readings were taken during a site survey and an optimum moisture content agreed for the new blocks so as to avoid excessive expansion or contraction going forward.
The Results
Together with the correct optimal moisture content and expert laying by the contractor, the floors look amazing but will also now ‘wear in’ and last for many more decades and possibly centuries to come.
Additional Information
Architect – David Ferguson Architect
Main contractor – Bakers of Danbury
Photography – Irving Nichols
English oak supplier - Whippletree
