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Tag: Materials

A row of lovely, well-kept traditional stone cottages with a flagstone roof
Materials

In search of Angus flagstone roofs: a rare and distinctive Scottish tradition

Thursday 23 July 2026

Flagstone roofs are rare in the UK, but in one area on the East Coast of Scotland flagstone has been used on roofs for over 500 years. We went on a mission to find out how many flagstone roofs are left in Angus and what the future might look for these precious pieces of local heritage.

A person looking down a microscope in a lab at a piece of stone
Science

What is mortar analysis?

Friday 9 February 2024

Learn about mortar analysis: a skill vital to making conservation decisions that are appropriate, long-lasting and don't damage historic buildings.

A historical kitchen, set in a grand old house. There is a large range fire, and a selection of around thirty pots and pans hanging from the wall. A table in the centre has bowls and plates on it, and three hams hang from the rafters.
Maintenance

How to get an authentic look with traditional interior paint and finishes

Friday 17 November 2023

Does a room in your traditional home (built pre-1919) need a fresh coat of paint? Or are you researching a...

Freshly cut reed beds viewed from above, looking down directly on to a tightly packed series of reeds, looking like bunched straws.
Materials

Thatching Reed: supporting buildings and nature

Thursday 31 August 2023

We caught up with RSPB Tayside Reserves Warden Vicky Turnbull to find out more about the Tay reedbeds and how they support both nature and building conservation.

Decayed masonry of Bothwell Castle's Latrine Tower at Bothwell Castle
Conservation

Gardez L’Eau – ‘watch out for the water’

Thursday 25 January 2018

Decay from weather, water and salts to Bothwell Castle’s Latrine Tower prompted conservation work at the site.

Someone mixing up hot mortar mix outside
Conservation

Hot Mixed Mortars: A Hot Topic in Conservation

Thursday 31 August 2017

Hot mixed lime mortars are a hot topic in building conservation. Wider awareness of the impacts of climate change has led...

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Thank you

The Engine Shed is accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and National Open College Network (NOCN). The Engine Shed was supported by a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to share knowledge of traditional building materials, develop skills and raise standards in conservation for traditional buildings.

  • Heritage Lottery Fund

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Historic Environment Scotland is the lead public body established to investigate, care for and promote Scotland’s historic environment.

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