Our work on the Commissioners House project at Chatham Historic Dockyard is making progress, evident by the huge scaffold which now envelops the building. There has been some interest as to why the scaffolding is so large and intricate, and there is a simple answer – to protect the structure of this Scheduled Ancient Monument, the scaffold is designed to stand completely independent from the historic building itself. That means no extra stress or weight is placed on the fragile Georgian architecture.
What is not so simple is the complex design of the structure, which takes into account wind direction from the river, the threat of storms, heavy rain, and even snow, in order to ensure absolute stability. The scaffold is anchored with 61 tonnes of kentledge (counterweight) at the front, facing the river, and 48 tonnes at the rear.
To enable intricate roof repairs and leadwork, large working platforms have been installed at the eaves and crown levels on the north side of the house. These allow the team to form and transfer new materials safely to the roof. Additional scaffolding surrounds each of the iconic, tall chimneys to provide access for stabilization works. At the heart of the project is a Keder roofing system that shields the house from the elements while the original roof is carefully stripped and restored.
Watch the mesmerising timelapse of the scaffold coming together – CLICK HERE
