16655
Accession Number
6970
Title Of Article Chaper
Structural reinforcement of historic wooden temples in Japan
Title Of Journal Book
Bulletin of the Association for Preservation Technology
Volume
12
Issue
1
Pages
75-91
Collation
20 ill.
Language Of Text
English
Literature Type
Serial
Literature Level
Analytic
Abstract
Japanese temples are generally characterized by long overhanging roof eaves covered with heavy clay tiles. The weight of these roofs creates unusual stresses on the supporting structures. Consequently, the buildings require roof replacement every 50 to 70 years and major overhaul every 200 to 300 years. The building structures are usually made from large dimensional timber. Prior to restoration the stresses are carefuly analyzed. To preserve the historic configuration of the buildings the structures are reinforced with ingeniously concealed steel trusses. During the restoration work, enclosures are erected over entire buildings. These enclosures protect the invaluable artifacts from the elements and permit the continuation of construction under all weather conditions. The unique reinforcing techniques used at the Todai-ji Temple, The Five-storied Pagoda and Main pavillion of the Horyu-ji Temple and the Main-gate of the Tohfuku-ji Temple are described.
Keywords
Building, wood conservation maintenance; Building, wood damage; Building, roofing wood carpentry; Wood, structural carpentry; Wood, structural reinforcement; Building, wood construction technique; Building, structure wood consolidation; Building, provisional protection shelter ICCROM
pub_id
16655