Some of the most important decisions in conservation and restoration relate to material selection. In some cases, use of inappropriate repair materials can even reduce the lifespan of an object more than leaving it alone. But deciding which materials to use is not always a straightforward matter, based as it is on a complex balance of knowledge and judgement, involving:

• Technical understanding of existing fabric
• Potential repair materials
• Existing coatings
• Likely interactions between these three
• Decay/corrosion mechanisms
• Ethical standards and policies
• Budget available.

So how do we prioritise competing factors and reach a decision on treatment? How do heritage professionals weigh their knowledge and exercise their judgement when faced with real-life decisions? Join us for some insights into materials choices as we bring together a range of professionals to share their decision-making processes.