FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
Munters, global leaders in energy efficient climate control, has installed dehumidifiers in archive rooms at Belvoir Castle, Rutland, UK to protect the family’s historical records from deterioration and moisture damage. Belvoir Castle has been the ancestral home of the Duke of Rutland’s family since 1067. From the days of the Norman conquest to modern day, it is one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in the world.
To ensure the preservation of their precious archives for future generations, Belvoir Castle chose Munters to install state-of-the-art dehumidifiers in the castle’s archive rooms. These rooms house a vast collection of books, documents, maps, manuscripts, estate management records, with the oldest document dating back to 1103. However, the passage of time has taken its toll on many of these documents, and humidity and moisture has caused visible damage such as mould growth, yellowing, and discolouration.
Recognising the need to protect these irreplaceable records, Belvoir Castle previously tried commercial dehumidifiers with little success. Munters were then selected to design a dehumidification solution tailored to the unique challenges of Belvoir Castle. “You can see why an industrial solution is needed. Due to the thickness of the castle walls, having one dehumidifier in each of the archive rooms is essential.” His Grace David Manners, 11th Duke of Rutland.
Each of the five dehumidifiers installed were selected to maintain consistent relative humidity levels of 50-55% RH, preventing further damage and ensuring the long-term preservation. This solution meets the British Standard BS4971 for conservation in archives, as well as reducing the need for additional heating, which in turn saves energy.
This project has been a testament to the importance of preserving history. By safeguarding the Duke of Rutland’s family archives, Munters is helping to ensure that these invaluable records can be enjoyed by future generations.
To read the full story or learn how Munters can help preserve your valuable assets, please visit our website or contact our sales team.
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