Trace repaired the historic external timber frame at Bears Head in Sandbach, Cheshire. The works included timber façade repairs, wall panel reconstruction, structural reinforcement and matching ornate timber details.
The project required careful attention to both the building’s structure and its appearance, addressing damaged elements while respecting the character of the historic frontage.
As with many historic timber buildings, the challenge was to restore structural integrity while retaining the visual character of the original elevation.
The works also involved ornate moulded timber details, which required careful matching to preserve the building’s historic appearance.
Trace carried out a combination of traditional timber repair and sensitive façade restoration. Wall panels and brickwork were rebuilt using lime mortar, supporting the breathability and compatibility required for older buildings.
Where additional structural support was needed, metalwork reinforcement was introduced using steelwork and metal ties.
The repair strategy combined heritage craft with modern reinforcement. Decayed or weakened timber sections were repaired, ornate mouldings were restored or matched, and wall panels were rebuilt in a way that respected the original construction.
The Bearshead’s external timber frame and façade were restored with a balanced approach to conservation, structural repair and visual reinstatement.
Manchester
2021
Trace repaired and reinforced the historic timber roof structure at Ashton Old Baths. The works covered trusses, purlins, joists and beams, combining traditional splice repairs with resin techniques and metal plate reinforcement. Original timber members were retained where practical, with replacement timber and new truss construction used where necessary. This approach balanced structural repair with the preservation of the building’s historic character.
Salford
2018
Specialist truss repairs at St Ignatius Church in Salford, including ornate splice repairs and timber member replacement to match the original structure.
Guildford
2023
External gable timber frame and historic joinery repairs.
