The Rev Scott Rennie offers some tips on seasonal care for buildings.

SINCE winter is approaching, I thought it might be helpful for this month’s article to provide some hints and tips for caring for our ecclesiastical buildings in this season.

A Monty Don style, things to do with your building for November!

As the temperature begins to drop and the nights draw in, now is a good time to plan ahead for the winter months to ensure your buildings remain weatherproof and comfortable for the months ahead. Regular checks and proactive maintenance can make a vast difference in a building’s condition, energy efficiency and lifespan.

If a building is not watertight there is little point in making energy efficiency upgrades, and if dampness or excess moisture is already present such upgrades may cause further moisture and damage.

Traditional construction relies upon both breathability and ventilation. If ventilation is restricted, air carrying water vapour cannot properly escape, leading to increased humidity, condensation build-up and undesirable consequences such as mould growth.

Rainwater goods: Ensure all gutters, rhones, downpipes and drains are clear post leaf fall to ensure they run freely and shed water effectively. Remove moss from roofs and ensure rainwater drainage systems remain unobstructed. In properties with valley gutters, clear any accumulated snow and debris, to prevent meltwater from exceeding capacity, which could lead to internal dampness. When gritting paths and roads, take care to prevent salt reaching the bases of walls, as salt exposure can accelerate the deterioration of mortar joints, bricks, and stone.

Water pipes: To prevent localised flooding caused by ruptured pipes or tanks, insulate pipes, particularly those located outdoors and in unheated spaces. When a building is vacant for several days, set the heating system to operate continuously at approximately 5ºC. Fully opening the loft hatch can help maintain the roof space above freezing temperatures. It is also prudent to periodically check stop valves to ensure they function smoothly in case of an emergency.

Roofs and lofts: Around 25% of heat is lost through the roof of a building; loft insulation is a common and effective means of reducing heat loss. Whatever material is chosen it is recommended at least 270 mm of insulation be installed.

Floors: A cold floor has the capacity to absorb heat and can draw in cold air from beneath the floorboards, which can greatly impact thermal comfort. The thermal efficiency of both timber and concrete floors can be notably enhanced, however, with solid floors, this improvement may entail considerable disruption. Suspended floors are generally positioned 300 to 500 mm above the ground level, supported by timber joists, either in a clear span or occasionally by sleeper walls.

To ensure optimal insulation, it is advisable to install it beneath the timber floor.

Windows: Secondary glazing is the one of the most effective methods for improving thermal performance of single pane windows, reducing heat loss by up to 63%.

Used in conjunction with other methods such as blinds, heavy curtains and shutters, a reduction in heat loss of over 75% can be achieved.

Draught proofing: Draught proofing of windows, doors to reduce air ingress can greatly improve thermal efficiency through use of such products as brush or foam strips. It may then be necessary to re-evaluate the ventilation system to prevent elevated internal humidity levels.

Contact either your PBO (Presbytery Buildings Officer) in the first instance or the General Trustees.Further resources are available at:

• www.churchofscotland.org.uk/about-us/property-and-church-buildings/lookingafter-church-buildings

• www.nationalchurchestrust.org/getsupport/buildings-maintenance/regularmaintenance

• www.historicenvironment.scot/archivesand-research/publications/publication/?publicationId=179c1909-3679-44869583-a59100fa98c1

The Rev Scott Rennie is Vice-Convener of the General Trustees and minister at London: Crown Court.