Structural conservation and vernacular construction

Abstract

Modern societies understand built cultural heritage, including vernacular construction, as a landmark of culture and diversity, which needs to be protected and brought to the next generations in suitable condition. Still, a large part of this heritage is affected by structural problems that menace the safety of buildings and people. In the case of vernacular construction, deterioration due to abandonment is often present, making the phenomena of urbanization one of the most important menaces to this built heritage. The developments in the areas of inspection, non-destructive testing, monitoring and structural analysis of historical constructions, together with recent guidelines for reuse and conservation, allow for safer, economical and adequate remedial measures, as discussed in this paper