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arconTEST

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Testing

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ArconTEST's philosophy has evolved from the awareness that the practice of conserving and documenting our built history is evolving and becoming more demanding, and thus bringing with it the need for specialized professional services related to the field of architectural conservation.

ArconTEST emphasizes the interdisciplinary character of conservation by applying scientific techniques to architectural field work and introducing those involved with historic properties to the laboratory. Thorough recording and scientific analysis aids in understanding the character and behaviour of a building and its constituent materials. And familiarity with laboratory tests and conservation techniques better enables the architectural conservator in obtaining and interpreting the specific information needed for the critical evaluation of historic structures. Typically, this is not possible with standard arms-length procedures generally found in the construction materials testing industry today.

ArconTEST abides by the Code of Ethics of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC). Its senior staff are members of the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals (CAHP). The senior conservator is Spencer R. Higgins, who founded the firm and presently leads all projects.