Conservation vs Refurbishment: Knowing the Difference

Introduction

Brighton & Hove’s streets are lined with Regency stucco, Victorian brickwork and bungaroosh walls. Treating those buildings correctly starts with one question: are you conserving or refurbishing? The answer affects planning consent, budget, durability and resale value.

What Conservation Means

Conservation is minimal-intervention repair that safeguards historic fabric and breathability.

• Repointing brickwork with traditional lime mixes. (COMING SOON!)

• Splice-repairing sash windows instead of replacing them.

• Retaining original lime plaster and adding vapour-open insulation. (COMING SOON!)

• Repairing bungaroosh walls with matching materials.

What Refurbishment Involves

Refurbishment introduces new materials or layouts to improve comfort, efficiency or style.

• Replacing lime render with cement render.

• Installing uPVC windows.

• Creating open-plan spaces by removing structural walls.

• Over-boarding ceilings with plasterboard and plastic paint.

Four Key Differences

1. Planning & Consent
   Conservation work can qualify as like-for-like repair, whereas refurbishment often requires formal Listed Building Consent.

2. Material Compatibility
   Conservation relies on lime, timber and breathable finishes; refurbishment may add cement or gypsum, increasing moisture risk.

3. Long-Term Cost
   Conservation supports access to heritage grants and avoids cyclical failures; unsympathetic refurbishment can devalue the property and demand remedial work.

4. Sustainability
   Conservation retains embodied carbon; refurbishment can introduce high-carbon replacements.

Decision Framework

1. Identify significance with a heritage survey.

2. Define goals—comfort, safety or market value.

3. Match approach: conserve intact features, refurbish only where necessary.

4. Draft a specification using heritage-focused guidance. (COMING SOON!)

5. Consult Brighton & Hove planning early.

Typical Conservation Techniques

• Hot-lime pointing with NHL 2 or NHL 3.5. (COMING SOON!)

• Limewashing instead of acrylic paint.

• Slim-profile secondary glazing.

• Timber splice repairs with resin or hardwood inserts.

Common Refurbishment Pitfalls

• Cement render on soft brick causes spalling.

• Plastic paints on lime plaster create condensation and mould.

• Blocking chimney flues without ventilation leads to salt blooms.

• Over-insulating bungaroosh walls without vapour control traps moisture.

• More examples in Top 10 Mistakes in Period Property Repairs. (COMING SOON!)

Cost Planning and Funding

Conservation work can qualify for zero-rated VAT and support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Refurbishment rarely does.

Conservation Checklist

• Specify breathable, low-impact materials. (COMING SOON!)

• Plan upkeep with a five-year maintenance plan. (COMING SOON!)

• Keep detailed records for future owners.

Conclusion

For Brighton & Hove’s period homes, conservation-first thinking protects heritage and value. Refurbishment has a role—but only when guided by breathable materials and heritage expertise.

Book a no-obligation heritage survey with Safe-Bricks Limited today.