Kent Cottage was originally built as a prominent house around 1600. During the late 19th century and early 20th century the building became Fulking’s Workhouse and Infirmary before reverting back to residential use.
The building was repaired in the 1990s using resin repairs which had also been used to coat the timbers.
In addition, many of the infill panels had been replaced or over boarded with a cement render.
This combination of inappropriate materials had led to significant structural decay to the timber frame.
The project, which lasted over 10 months, included signifying timber frame repairs, windows replacement, replacement infill panels, insulation improvements and re rendering.
The approach to the repairs was one of maximum retention of historic fabric and so numerous face patches were carried out to ensure original timber framing was retained wherever possible.
The rendered panels were replaced with lightweight breathable wood wool board rendered with lime render and where historic lath and plaster and wattle and daub panels remained these were conserved and protected.
The project was designed and managed by Manorwood who also undertook research on the property and provided heritage advice.
The works were carried out by The Oak Blokes.
