y8 Joule

Weathering of the Elms

The oldest part of The Elms was built in 1735 for Sir Joseph Ayloffe. When it was built Acton was a small country village surrounded by fields.
How old is The Elms?
Describe the changes that have occurred in Acton since the Elms was built.

In contrast the Sports Hall was built in 1994.

We are going to look at the state of bricks in the two buildings.

The Elms

Some of the brickwork has been replaced so you must try and find an original brick.

Sketch the brick that you have chosen below.
Label features such as small holes and cracks. Is there any evidence of plant life such as moss or green/grey crusty lichens?
Look at other bricks, are they similar to the one you have drawn. Are there other features that you think are worth mentioning? Is the wear more noticeable parts of the building more exposed to the weather.

If there is time you can sketch another brick from the north side of the building.

The Sports Hall

Are any of the features seen in the bricks on The Elms visible in the bricks of the sports hall?

What reasons can you think of for the differences?
When The Elms was new do you think the bricks looked as they do now?
What could account for the change in surface of the bricks in the Elms?

Keywords

Chemical weathering, abrasion, smooth, rough, surface, cracks, flakes, breaking off, ice, snow, wind, sun, rain, heat, expansion, contraction