Schmidt hammer exposure dating for brick masonry

Abstract This research investigates the validity of the Schmidt hammer exposure dating (SHED) technique as a complementary means to date monuments according to the evaluation of the brick decay from masonry exposed to climatic conditions. The degree of surface weathering, I5 (%) is calculated as an indicator of the ageing effect and compared to the absolute age of the churches constructed between 1600 and 1795. This paper discusses the results obtained with such a method and the use of the technique within the framework of historical research. Tests were done on exterior church walls built between the 17th and 19th centuries. All the churches were located within the limited geographical area of Hainaut, in the south of Belgium. Results indicate that SHED provides encouraging results for buildings constructed between 1790 and 1895, with a linear correlation (R2>0.8) between surface weathering of brick façades and their ages. However, the weathering indices show high variability of values for the period 1750−1790, which may confirm that the variable qualities of bricks were in use during this period of time because of the different production techniques. As such, the results highlight the probable influence of the entire manufacturing and construction process and technical improvements in traditional brick-making.