We believe that the 5 external lamp posts at The Church of St. Mary and All Saints in Whalley date back to 1850. Constructed from cast iron, they had been adapted for electricity and sat around the perimeter path casting their light in the dark nights. Each one has unique design details.
Over time, the elements had caused significant wear and tear to the lamp posts, including rust, fading paint, and corrosion. As part of a church renovation project, it was decided that the lamp posts should be restored and repainted to both preserve their historical value and enhance the church’s exterior appearance.
For pathway safety and functionality, the lanterns now contain LED bulbs providing improved visibility around the church at night and ensured that the lighting system is energy-efficient and in full working order.
Upon using hand tools to remove loose paint and rusting, we found that the lamp posts had been covered in layer after layer of paint over the years. Using a wire brush, our team were able to uncover ornate details on the posts that had been covered over from the multiple paint coats.
Fortunately, we did not uncover any cracks or imperfections in the metal that required further works. Once the lamp posts were back to the bare metal, we were able to apply a primer and 2 coats of branded black metal paint – allowing for drying time between applications.
Conclusion
The repainting has significantly improved the longevity of the lamp posts. The rust-resistant primer and high-quality painted finish provides a protective barrier, making them more resistant to the elements.
Aesthetically, the lamp posts are enhanced by the fresh paint which highlights the intricate cast-iron detailing, making them a striking visual feature in the church grounds.
The preservation of the lamp posts protects an important element of the church’s architectural history, maintaining their original character while improving their functionality.
