Characterization methodology to efficiently manage the conservation of historical rammed-earth buildings

Over recent centuries, earthen-building techniques have been falling into disuse despite the long tradition of using earth as a building material. Rammed-earth walls have a rich heritage value in Spain. These structures are at high risk mainly due to a lack of maintenance. It is therefore necessary to underline their characteristics, often much less known, in order to ensure proper management of their conservation and maintenance. The management of a heritage object requires greater understanding for medium and long-term planning. To this end, a study of vulnerability and risk is introduced, as was alleged by several international organizations. Since no specific methodology has been developed to evaluate historical rammed-earth walls, this research is intended to indicate a new system of approach to any type of restoration or even facilitate the decision-making when managing a large heritage site. guidelines for intervention and helping in the decision-making, by means of assessment methodology based mainly on a comprehensive/proper understanding of the damaging process and vulnerability of these kinds of earthen walls. Likewise, the proposed methodology is part of a recent research work carried out by the current author (Canivell 2011). 2 CHARACTERIZATION METHODOLOGY In general terms and regardless of the area of knowledge, a wide variety of diagnostic methodologies is currently available. Among other concerns, they may differ from each other according to the method of data collection, the typology of the data, and the level of conclusion that may be drawn (whether enhancement proposals may be included). As for clinical diagnosis, the current methodology is based on a preliminary characterization, also known as an anamnesis. Before any diagnosis can be offered, it is necessary a prior step that enables the later collection of all the relevant information from the rammed-earth wall, related both to its material and to its state of conservation together with any weaknesses. Once a preliminary study is completed, it is not only feasible to give a diagnosis which determines the current state of decay, but also to suggest suitable conservation repairs. Studies for the analysis of this kind of wall are mainly organoleptic and straightforward to be carriedy out through a visual inspection, although