Why Important
With a heritage building, first impressions matter. Even small signs of inappropriate style or material stands out, and can suggest that unsympathetic changes have made which can devalue the whole property.
What to look for
Very often where the period metalwork has been difficult to remove, is has been painted over to make it less conspicuousness. This often was the case with gas lighting brackets, which could not be converted to electric cable ducts.
Door furniture has a similar history.
Inside existing cupboards, or storage spaces, which were not on view daily, period features can be found.
When to look
When the initial detailed survey is undertaken. Collect photographs of the existing situation.
Undertake annual inspections or when the building has a change of use/occupancy.
How to fix
Generally the advice on the care and conservation of Victorian and Edwardian ironmongery is the same as for Georgian ironmongery. If replacing missing ironmongery, look for a pattern in similar properties to copy.
Renewed interest in period features has led to an upsurge in the availability of traditional ironmongery patterns using traditional casting moulds and techniques. The internet has a vast choice. When buying from the internet ensure that the piece is solid brass, and un-laquered.
Ensure that the diameter of the knob is correct, i.e. important rooms have bigger knobs. The thickness of the rose is also important and should be as thin as possible at the outer visible edge.
All ironmongery should be of the same material, eg all brass or all black iron.
Avoiding creating problems
Resist the temptation to add extra ironmongery to a door unless necessary.