This lovely medium sized medieval church was in much need of repair and decoration. Previous water ingress had caused much damage to the internal fabric of the building with loss to large areas of the lime mortar plastering. The ceiling was replaced approximately 20 years ago and the jointing on the internal boarding had failed causing each board to be re taped and filled.
The pictures to the right are the completed project.
Scroll down for our review received for completion.
St Marys Before Restoration
Our Review by Grahame Elliott Treasurer of St Marys Church Spittal
In late summer 2018 Magnolia & White undertook the redecoration of the interior of St Mary's Church, Spittal. It was clear from the outset that they are a knowledgeable and professional firm who strive for perfection in any project they undertake.
St Mary's Church is typical of many, it is small (seats about 80), ancient (though much interior restoration was carried out in Victorian times) and like all churches in Wales it is subjected to much rainfall. A botched re-roofing project about 22 years ago had resulted in a large amount of interior water damage to the plaster and in one part to the structural timber. Inside the church it was damp, smelly and and gave the impression of neglect. In recent years much money had been spent in reinforcing masonry and making good the previously inadequate roof drainage and rain damaged purlin. Some re-plastering was also undertaken. At the stage at which it was decided to re-paint the interior the structure was sound and as far as could be seen the ingress of water had stopped.
The first thing M&W did was to thoroughly survey the interior of the church noting the condition and structure of the ceiling and walls. This led to their recommendation as to the type of paint finish and the necessary preparation required.
Secondly they assessed the requirement for access to the various areas of the building. This was particularly difficult as the roof structure consisted of nineteen exposed heavy timber trusses which made getting at the ceiling boards between them extremely awkward. The fixed oak pews and choir stalls made positioning of tower scaffolding particularly tricky. M&W were insistent
on safe working practice. With much thought and ingenuity the various obstacles were overcome.
M&W provided a quotation for the work (in competition with three other companies.)
This was accepted by the PCC and work was able to proceed. A Faculty from the Diocese was required for work to start.
The church was able to be used for all but three weekends and M&W were notably good at
at communication and cooperation with the Vicar, Churchwarden and PCC members throughout.
At the outset M&W were made aware that a wedding was scheduled to take place on 13th October
and that the painting had to be completed and the church cleared, clean and ready for use by then. With much effort and some extended working hours this deadline was met.
The end result has been a church which looks superb. The many areas of damaged plaster have been so skilfully repaired that it is not possible to detect where they once were. The simple plain white finish greatly enhances its appearance and gives a lighter airier effect.
One notable attribute of M&W is their thoughtful attention to detail. Careful and thorough preparation at all stages of the work was their watchword.
In all, Magnolia & White did a first rate job. Come and see it if you can.
