Up High: How Rope Access Protects Historic Buildings – Talking Conservation with Steve Hogarth

In this follow-up episode of Talking Conservation, we’re back with Steve Hogarth – SPAB Fellow, heritage mason, and rope access conservator with Highlife Rope Access – to dive deeper into how conservation really happens at height.From blocked gutters and cracked coping stones to wildlife nests and fragile leadwork, Steve shares what really goes on when you're dangling from ropes on cathedrals, castles, and churches – and why rope access can offer major advantages over traditional scaffolding.We explore:• What rope access actually is and when it’s used• Real-world examples of unexpected issues found at height• Why hands-on surveys can reveal more than drones or binoculars• The most common (and preventable) problems that damage old buildings• How rope access enables small, cost-effective repairs that prevent bigger failures• What makes rope access viable (or not) for domestic buildings• Why it’s an essential part of modern conservation practiceWhether you’re a homeowner, architect, or heritage professional, this episode offers unique insight into how careful, targeted intervention at height can extend the life of historic buildings.👉 https://www.highliferopeaccess.com/👉https://www.instagram.com/highlife_rope_access/👉https://www.facebook.com/HIGHLIFEROPEACCESS/👉 Subscribe to our channel for future episodes on building conservation, heritage homes, and expert advice.👉 Book a consultation with us for 1-1 advice on managing your historic home on www.expertible.com👉 Professionals involved in working on or with historic, traditional, or listed buildings may want 1-2-1 mentoring and/or training with Stephen. Visit his website at www.beconservation.com#talkingconservation #traditionalbuildings #buildingconservation #historicbuildingrestoration #traditionalconstructionmaterials #limemortar #preservingarchitecturalheritage #listedbuildings #heritageprotection #historichomes #traditionalhomes #restorationtips #homerestoration #architecturalheritage #historicmaterials #highliferopeaccess