Characterization of Traditional Coatings in Earthen Vernacular Architecture in the Limarí Valley: Their Role in the Conservation of Built Heritage in Chile

Abstract

Despite its seismic activity, Chile has a large number of heritage buildings built with earth. Their conservation depends on elements such as roofing and foundations, but also on the quality of renders and finishing materials. This study seeks to identify and characterize the coating systems and materials used on the wall surfaces of earthen heritage structures in the Limarí valley, Chile, seeking to contribute to the dissemination, promotion, and preservation of these traditional renders. The case studies included are historic buildings in various Limarí valley villages. Render and plaster samples of earthen built heritage were taken for analysis from a diversity of wall structures (such as adobe, pandereta, or quincha) and finishing techniques. Despite differences, the conclusions of our fieldwork and sample observations and analysis allow us to identify effective, common coating systems and finishes.