Thermohygrometric evaluations – Church of St. Maria dell’Annunziata in Abbiategrasso (MI)

Via Pontida, 1 20081 Abbiategrasso (MI)

For visits:  Culture Department of the Municipality of Abbiategrasso
Phone: 02 94692453
cultura@comune.abbiategrasso.mi.it www.comune.abbiategrasso.mi.it

Thermohygrometric investigations - Church of St. Maria dell’Annunziata in Abbiategrasso

The thermohygrometric evaluations of the Church dell’Annunziata,  commissioned by the Municipality of Abbiategrasso, began in November 2004. The purpose of these tests was to assess the hygrothermal conditions of the painted walls, affected by degradation caused by water change of state from liquid to vapor and vice versa. In addition to these, a microclimate monitoring in the presbytery area was carried out both inside (bell tower side) and outside. Masonry looked plastered with lime mortar inside,  and as a brickwork outside. Sight analysis showed that deterioration was more marked at the base of the masonry. Though the most deteriorated areas have a variable trend, the survey was effected while the restoration of finishing was still in progress . The cause of degradation could be the rising damp from the groundwater at the base of the wall, but there may be other contributing factors.First of all, the lack of an adequate outdoor paving and channelling and drainage system for the removal of rainwater. Secondly, a severe infiltration from the tower roof, when the building had not been restored yet. The first phase of investigation was carried out between summer and the beginning of autumn rains. The second one was effected after several weeks of heavy rains. It was possible therefore to assess the state of absorption of the painted walls at its maximum water content.

ByElisabetta Rosina

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