CONSERVATION AND MAINTENANCE AT RUTHVEN PARK by Marilynn Havelka, CAO

Our goal at Ruthven Park, a nationally significant resource,is to present the site to the visiting public not only now but in years to come. However, building materials including masonry,wood and architectural metals are all subject to damage, decay and loss over time. As a strategy to slow down this deterioration, scheduled conservation and regular maintenance have been implemented to assist with the survival of these materials for future generations.

Removal of layers of paint from the Gate House.

Rather than restore particular buildings to a set and particular time in the past, we have chosen to interpret the alterations made by the Thompson family over time, making the changes an important part of the building’s history and the interpretation of the site.

Over the past four years a considerable amount of conservation work has been undertaken. The priority for this work was to keep the moisture out of buildings and make them structurally sound, thereby slowing down the deterioration process. To date, four of the nationally significant nationally significant nineteenth century buildings have been conserved: namely, the mansion, carriageway, gate house and the drill hall or barracks. The first three buildings, which were part of the conservation work schedule earlier this year will be discussed below.

To complete the work on the exterior of the mansion, the ashlar stone work on the main portion of the building, and the rubble and stonework on the later building additions, were selectively repointed. In keeping with the character of the house and the evolution over time, different types of repointing techniques were used including raised (ribbon) joints, squared and flat joint profiles. Mortar samples used for repointing materials were experimented with to ensure that the colour, texture and joint profiles were correct. After close examination, joints that were loose or missing, or joints which had excessively soft mortar, or powdery or crumbling, were cut out and replaced. Overall about 70% of the mortar joints were repointed. The mortar mix was lime based putty making the mixture more flexible to accommodate any movement in the building. Repairs were made to stones that were split or cracked as well as the lintel stones. In a few cases, deteriorated stones were cut out and replaced.

The mansion windows were overhauled. They were made structurally sound and repaired without damaging or scuffing the wood surface while at the same time maintaining and conserving the maximum amount of existing fabric and character. Because the original window glass is old and valuable, the intent was to reset any cracked glass rather than install replacement glass. Ultra-violet filters were then carefully installed on the glass to help preserve the interior finishes and furnishings from damaging light and heat.

The gate house wood pilasters and portico columns received on site repairs. Lead coated copper rain water leaders, metal flashings and eaves-troughs were added. The wood door was made structurally sound and painted green, a colour that was found under layers of paint.

Reconstruction of the Carriageway Roof.

The carriage way walls were tied together with stainless steel threaded rod dowels. The roof was reconstructed after the new masonry wall ties were installed. The decorative roof vents were salvaged and repaired and the roof was rebuilt with a new ridgeboard, and cross ties. The gable framing was reinstalled and the floorboards were replaced.

Even though the three buildings received a considerable amount of attention over the past year continual monitoring and maintenance will be required to keep them from further deterioration.

Next,our attention shifts to the Coach House — stay tuned!