CMA3004: Building Inspection of St. Matthew & St. Mary Church Case Study

Introduction - Analyzing Structural Integrity and Defects in Architecture

There are different forms of work done on the building to check out the different aspects of the building. The main reason that is behind this is checking the several aspects of the building. It is to be noted that like every other structure, buildings are also subjected to degradation. For this reason, it is required that the condition of the buildings is accessed at regular intervals. It can be seen that there are different ways of doing this. Among these ways, one of the best methods is the inspection of the building. In this project, the inspection of a building was carried out. The building that was selected for this project was a church. This is a church that is situated in Manchester in the country UK. 

The first thing that was done here was to provide the details of the selected building. In this, the main thing that was found was to provide the actual location of the building. Also, the address of the building was also provided in this report. In addition to this, the description of the facade present in the building is also present in this report. Moreover, the description of the building description was also presented in this report.

Here, the foundation present in the building was also inspected. The main things that were investigated regarding the foundation were its nature, the method by which it was constructed, and the materials that were used for making the foundation. In addition to this, the details of the components present in the superstructure of the building are also present in this report. There can be seen the presence of “non-structural” members in the building. The description of these members is presented here. Moreover, there can be seen different forms of defects in the building. The details of the defects present in the building are presented in this report. 

Building Identification

Location Map

Figure 1: Location Map

This building is situated in Manchester in the country UK. This is a church that is located in the central part of this country. 

Building Postcode

The postcode of the building that was chosen here is M8 4QU. 

Building Facade

There can be seen a particular type of facade present in the church. The facade of the church is made of stone masonry. 

Building Date

The building date of this church is 1908. 

Building Description

Purpose of the building

There was a particular building that was selected for this project. It can be seen that the building that was selected here was a church. Hence, from here it can be understood that this building is mainly used for the purpose of doing prayers (Syphard & Keeley, 2019). For this reason, there can be seen a big crown present in this building every now and then. So, it was required that this building allow such big crowds to present inside the building at a time. 

Design of the building

There can be seen a particular design in the selected building. The designs adopted in this building allow more crowd to present in this building at a time. Also, the head requirements of this building were considered for designing this building. For requirements, the head of this building was kept more than the usual residential buildings. 

Building Method

There can be seen a particular method that was applied in making this building. The main thing that can be said in this regard is that this is different from the usual “residential & commercial” buildings. 

Structural Material

There were many different materials were used in this building. Some of the main materials that were used here are brick, wood, mortar, glass, and others. 

Substructure

Foundation System

It can be seen that a particular type of foundation was used in this building. It is to be noted that the building carries a lower intensity of load. So, the foundation does not need to carry a great load coming from the superstructure (Hardy & Glew, 2019). Because of this reason, the foundation of the church is made of isolated foundation only. In this form of foundation, there are columns placed in the different places of the church. Loads coming from the superstructure are directly transferred to the ground. Also, the columns are also not connected by means of any tie beam with each other. 

Figure 2: Substructure

Construction Method

It is to be noted that the type of foundation present in the church needs to be built by a particular method. In this method, the thing that is done first is to select the locations where the columns will be placed. After this, the areas will be excavated up to the depth of the foundation. After this, the leveled base was prepared in order to place the concrete. The next thing that was done was to place the stones by placing cement mortars in between the stones. This was done up to the height of the ground level. This formed the foundation of the building. 

Foundation Materials

It can be seen that the foundation is the component of a building that does the work of transferring loads to the ground after collecting the load from the superstructure. There are different materials are used in making foundations. This mainly depends on the type of foundation needed. Also, it depends on the amount and nature of the load coming on it (Albeaino et al. 2019). Another thing that decides the selection of material is the available material. In this building the main material that was used for making the foundation was stone. In addition to this, cement mortar was also used for connecting the stones used in the foundation. 

Superstructure

Description of the superstructure

The church's superstructure, which features complex detailing and a grand scale, is a beautiful example of the Gothic revival architecture. This work of architecture, which rises magnificently above the urban landscape, perfectly captures the atmosphere of a sacred place. A rose window that covers the inside of the church with the bright light of stained glass is surrounded by elaborate stone tracery and an increasing, point arch entrance. To sustain the weight of the high building, tall, thin buttresses rise up from the ground, adding both aesthetic appeal and structural stability. With dual towers that reach incredible heights and dominates the skyline, the superstructure has a symmetrical design (Delmerico et al. 2019). The elaborate crosses that adorn these towers represent the church's emphasis on spirituality. Impressive stone sculptures of biblical subjects and religious figures that convey religion and function as wall art cover the walls. The superstructure within supports an arched ceiling with twisting arches that join at complicated keystones. Large, with towering columns, exquisitely constructed oak benches, and a tall table embellished with holy statues, the internal space is huge. The superstructure of St. Matthew & St. Mary Church is more than just a physical building; it is a symbol of faith and respect in the center of Manchester and a tribute to the skill and labor of those who constructed it.

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Materials, And Systems 

The superstructure of St. Matthew & St. Mary Church is more than just a physical building; it is a symbol of faith and devotion in the center of Manchester and proof of the expertise and dedication of those who constructed it.

Materials

A variety of building materials were selected for their strength and aesthetic appeal to make up the vast majority of the church's superstructure. Local sandstone, which makes up the majority of the external façade, gives it a pleasant golden hue (Luo et al. 2020). The main material that was used in this church was stone masonry and wood. In addition to this, materials like mortar and other connecting materials were also used in this church. 

Walls

The stone blocks are carefully built and connected while being built utilizing a variety of load-bearing masonry techniques. The large stone walls' stability is increased and their weight distribution is helped by suspended buttresses, a distinctive feature of Gothic architecture.

Load-Bearing floors

 The load-bearing flooring of the church are often built of wood, which gives the interior a cozy and welcoming feel. These flooring are made to withstand extensive use and sustain the entire weight of the assembly (Liu et al. 2021). They could also have elaborate woodwork patterns or other ornamental components that enhance the attractiveness of the church as a whole.

Roof

The church's strong roof, which is frequently decorated with ornamental elements like towers and finials, is the most conspicuous aspect of the superstructure. Usually, slate or lead is used to cover the roof in order to provide waterproofing and durability. Given Manchester's regular rains, the steep gradient not only accentuates the gothic appeal but also enables for effective rainwater drainage.

Systems

To preserve a cozy and useful interior, St. Matthew & St. Mary Church uses contemporary systems. The congregation's comfort has been ensured throughout the year by subtly integrating ventilation, heating, and electrical equipment (Suleiman, 2022). Windows with stained glass that represent biblical events and tales may also be present in the church, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and spiritual value.

Non-structural elements 

Description of Structural Systems And Materials Of Structural And Non-Structural Elements 

In order to build a church that is both aesthetically notable and ecologically sensitive, St. Matthew & St. Mary Church in Manchester carefully selected both structural and non-structural components. Here, we'll look at the many finishings used on the church's floors, stairs, windows, ceiling, and interior, with an emphasis on the building systems, resources, and environmental factors related to each.

Floor finishings

The church's floor finishings have both functional and aesthetically pleasing uses. Hardwood flooring is frequently seen in the primary worship space. Plywood or Oriented Strand Board (OSB) subflooring, which offers strength and a smooth surface for the finishings, is part of the structural structure under the flooring. 

• Materials: Hardwood Flooring is used due to its sturdiness, attractiveness, and timeless nature, cherry, maple, or oak wood is frequently used (Helander et al. 2020). The inside of the church is given an amazing touch while maintaining structural integrity.
• Environmental Issues: In order to reduce the impact of the environment, suitable wood sources must be chosen. Using preserved wood or timber from forests that are legally managed can support green building techniques. In order to preserve indoor air quality, the wood finish should contain few Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

Staircase

The staircase of St. Matthew & St. Mary Church is often constructed out of stone or concrete, and it is not only an essential structural element but also a stunning architectural element.

• Materials: Because of their strength and lasting appearance, marble and limestone are frequently employed (Feng et al. 2021). These components provide the staircase the essential structural stability.

Figure 3: Staircase of Church

The construction of a reliable and adaptable staircase may also be done using reinforced concrete.

• Environmental Issues: To reduce the environmental imprint, sustainable extraction techniques should be taken into account while acquiring natural stone (Jiang et al. 2021). Concrete manufacturing can have a smaller environmental effect if recycled materials are used.

Windows

The windows in the church's architecture are quite important since they let in natural light and provide aesthetic appeal. It matters what is used to make window frames.

• Materials: Wooden frames are frequently employed, particularly in traditional or old-fashioned church designs. Stained glass windows are supported structurally by them.

Frames made of steel or aluminum may be employed because of their durability and strength.

Stained-glass doors and windows have both structural and aesthetic components that add to the attractiveness of the church as a whole.

Figure 4: Windows of Church

• Environmental Issues: Choosing sustainable wood for the window frames that originates from sustainably managed forests should be a top consideration. Metal frames may be recycled to have less of an impact on the environment (Ongari et al. 2019). Stained-glass work is a special kind of art, and it should be produced using ethical and ecological methods.

Ceiling

The ceiling of a church is a crucial structural and aesthetic component that is frequently constructed from a variety of resources based on the architectural style.

• Materials: Wooden beams support the ceiling structurally and add a comfortable, natural atmosphere. For a more detailed and visually appealing appearance, decorative plasterwork or complicated ceiling decorations may be used.
• Environmental Issues: It is important to make sure that the wood used for ceiling beams is supplied responsibly (Tu et al. 2020). The plaster that is used need to be produced with environmentally friendly components and methods.

Interior finishings

The church's internal decoration, which includes paper walls and tiles, adds to its overall appearance and feel.

• Materials: Because of its longevity and ease of upkeep, ceramic or porcelain floor tiles are often used in places like bathrooms or kitchens. The lovely and indirect lighting qualities of "shoji," or ancient Japanese paper walls, may be utilised in particular settings.
• Environmental Issues: Choosing environmentally friendly tiles made of recycled materials assists in reducing the impact on the environment (Miao et al. 2019). Utilizing conventional paper walls also demonstrates cultural understanding and skill.

Existing defects

A description of the situation

For over a century, Manchester's St. Matthew & St. Mary Church has been used as a symbol of both spiritual comfort and architectural magnificence. However, the building has recently started to show symptoms of material deterioration and structural problems that need thorough examination and immediate repair. The presence of mold and moisture within the church is one major problem. The air is heavy with the musty stink of mould, as well as there are increasingly obvious wet spots over the walls and ceilings. This raises questions about the building's structural stability since unchecked moisture leakage can damage the base and threaten the congregation's safety. Several areas of the church now show signs of deterioration (Koyama & McMichael, 2021). Rust is visible on the elaborate iron railings that surround the entryway, and the chiming tower's metalwork also shows symptoms of degradation. Corrosion presents a twofold concern since it imperils the structure's stability more than its aesthetic attractiveness.

Building professionals and conservation specialists must conduct an immediate inquiry into these symptoms of deterioration and flaws. In addition to its historical importance, maintaining St. Matthew & St. Mary is essential for ensuring its security and survival as a valued house of worship in Manchester. For the sake of the congregation's welfare as well as the church's rich history, immediate correction is required.

• Possible causes

For a structure to be maintained and kept safe, like Manchester's St. Matthew & St. Mary's Church, it is essential to recognize symptoms of deterioration or defects. There are several possible reasons for such problems, including:

• Age and Wear

Regular usage and exposure to the environment may cause wear and tear on any building over time. This includes the degradation of ornamental components, damage on the flooring, and fading of the glass windows.

• Photographs of the detected issues

Figure 5: Door of Church

Damaged gutters, leaky roofs, and insufficient drainage systems may all lead to dampness. Mold is a health risk and grows best in moist environments. This problem may be made worse by poor ventilation. Over time, exposure to oxygen and moisture may cause corrosion, which is frequently observed on metallic parts like steel roof structures or iron railings (Li et al. 2023). Corrosion can be accelerated up by insufficient maintenance, painting, or rust control.

Figure 6: Building Techniques of Church

Settling, earth movements, or structural stress may be the source of fractures in the church's wall or foundation. Inadequate building techniques or soil subsidence may be contributory causes. Defects in the roof, such as broken roof shingles, broken flashing, or inadequate sealing, can allow water to enter the structure, causing internal damage (Rocha et al. 2020). Wood deterioration can occur as a result of fungal rot or insect infestations in wooden parts like beams and pews, especially if they are not adequately maintained or cared for.

Figure 7: Towers of Church

Cracked walls or sliding floors can result from uneven foundation settlement, which can also cause other structural problems. Changes in the quantity of water table or poor soil preparations during construction may be the culprits. The church's external paint may peel, fade, or peel due to harsh weather, pollution, or poor upkeep, which detracts from its visual appeal. Inadequate insulation can cause temperature changes inside the church, which might cause moisture and perhaps harm the inside finishes (Tronsli et al. 2020). Infestations of pests such as termites, rats, or birds can harm the outside or inside of the building and result in problems like decaying timber or unsightly droppings

Conclusion

In conclusion, the goal of this research was to thoroughly audit St. Matthew & St. Mary's Church in Manchester, in the UK, in order to evaluate all of its components, find any flaws, and investigate possible reasons for degradation. The project started by outlining pertinent facts about the church, such as its location, construction date, function, design, technique of construction, and materials utilized in both its foundation and superstructure. The usage of an independent foundations system, which is appropriate for the church's reduced load intensity, was discovered during the substructure investigation. Stone was the main component of the foundation materials, and cement mortar was used to hold the stones together. The superstructure demonstrated structural soundness and artistic grandeur, and it was an outstanding example of Gothic revival architecture. Key building elements were wood, limestone, and local sandstone, which added to the structure's strength and aesthetic appeal.

With an emphasis on their structural relevance and environmental issues, non-structural features including floor finishings, stairway materials, windows, and ceilings designs were also investigated. In line with modern ecological concepts, emphasis was placed on procuring materials from sustainable sources. The inspection also exposed existing flaws and degradation indicators inside the cathedral. Concerns regarding indoor air quality and structural stability were raised as a result of moisture and mold problems. Both the beauty and structural integrity of the metalwork and iron railings were at risk from corrosion. The need for rapid treatment and restoration was further highlighted by the discovery of cracks, wear, and wood degradation in several locations. The St. Matthew & St. Mary's Church is a monument to both spiritual importance and exquisite architectural design. It requires a committed commitment to maintain its continuous existence as a treasured place of prayer and an image of Manchester's heritage while contending with the difficulties of time and degradation of the environment.

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