As another conservator who has worked on a number of building projects
(both new construction and renovation) that have included environmental
improvement projects, I agree completely with Rick Kerschner's comments.
Another firm that has been working on climate management and improvement
projects is Watson & Henry Associates, located in Bridgeton, NJ. W&HA
specializes in historic preservation projects, but have experience in
new construction as well. Like Landmark Facilities Group and
Garrison/Lull, they have worked on projects across the country as well
as internationally.
Wendy Claire Jessup
President and Conservator
Wendy Jessup and Associates, Inc.
1814 N. Stafford St,
Arlington, VA 22207
(703) 522-2801
FAX: (703) 522-2802
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-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On
Behalf Of Rick Kerschner
Sent: Friday, February 27, 2004 4:13 PM
Subject: Roof-Top HVAC Units
I have worked with many museums advising on HVAC systems or practical
climate control options that will create safe environments for long-term
preservation of artifacts. My advice, is to get it right from the
beginning. That does not necessarily mean "operating room conditions."
Such conditions are one of the reasons that health care costs are high
(though probably a minor reason in the scale of things). Even if a
museum could afford to purchase the HVAC equipment and controls
necessary to maintain engineer designed operating room conditions, the
majority of museums can not afford the personnel required to operate and
maintain such equipment, and such tight conditions may not be required
for the long-term preservation of your collection.
My advice is to hire a consultant who specializes in museum
environmental control systems right from the start. The money you spend
on this consultant in the beginning will be paid back, probably many
times over, by the time and money that you will not have to spend in the
future. Such consultants can recommend equipment, review plans, and work
with the building architects and engineers to ensure that efficient HVAC
systems can be designed and built for the long term preservation of the
artifacts and the comfort of the visitors and staff, without going
overboard. They can also advise on whether roof-top HVAC units are best
for your situation.
You will also need the advice of a conservator who can examine your
collection artifacts and provide guideline as to what humidity
conditions are required for long-term preservation.
Go to the American Institute for Conservation website
http://aic.stanford.edu to find qualified conservators in your area.
HVAC consultants who specialize in museum environments are harder to
find. Two that are well known on the east coast are Landmark Facilities
Group, and Garrison/Lull, Inc. They work on projects all over the
country.
Richard L. Kerschner
Director of Preservation and Conservation
Shelburne Museum
PO Box 10, Route 7
Shelburne, VT 05482
802 985-3348 Ext 3361
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