St James Building on the busy Oxford Street in Manchester is a Grade II listed building dating back to 1912 and is one of the earliest steel-framed buildings in England. Quadriga have carried out various restoration works to this landmark building, most recently completing a tap test to the plaster ceiling.
A tap test is an effective method of identifying and locating areas of de-bonded plaster work. This survey was carried out via an access platform and any areas of loose plaster deemed to be at risk were removed to ensure occupier safety. Once the survey was completed, a report was drawn up indicating any areas of defective plaster work along with our proposals to repair them. De-bonding of plaster refers to the separation of the plaster and the surface to which it was originally applied. If this isn’t addressed, further deterioration and structural issues can occur over time. Regular inspections are instrumental in identifying any issues with heritage plaster and carrying out these small repairs in a timely manner can mitigate the need for more extensive and potentially intrusive restoration work.
