Crick Smith can provide an initial building survey report along with recommendations for remedial action to highlight any defects detrimental to the collection.

As soon as any building defects have been addressed attention may then be drawn to the environment inside the building, with our team providing an environmental monitoring strategy designed to reduce some of the risks to an historic collection. The environmental risks examined would be:

Relative Humidity & temperature

Humidity changes can cause physical changes in hygroscopic materials (e.g. wood) causing swelling, contraction, warping and cracking. High levels of humidity will also cause mould growth on organic materials and chemical changes (corrosion) in metals.

Crick Smith are able to offer advice about suitable relative humidity and temperature for the fabric of the building and the collections.

Exposure to light

Light is energy and deterioration requires energy. Ultra-violet radiation from sunlight is damaging to most historic objects causing:

Following an initial survey, Crick Smith may recommend the use of electronic data loggers to monitor temperature and relative humidity over time. The resulting data is then used to focus and inform recommendations for remedial action.

Pest Management (Insect pests, rodents and birds)

Pests found in historic buildings can wreak havoc on collections. A careful monitoring and control system can help minimise the risk. Please see our Pest Management section.

Crick Smith offer advice and effective strategies which may reduce the risk to the fabric of the building and the collection.

Institutions striving for Accredited Status must be able to demonstrate effective strategies that reduce environmental threats to their collections.

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Tel: 01522 895051
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