Recording and capturing protected structures, buildings and monuments requires precision and selection of appropriate tools.
For many years, the basis for documenting historical monuments was traditional manual measurements. Surveyors used measuring tapes, rods, levels, and protractors. These tools are still used, especially when documenting small architectural elements or when a structure location is difficult to access with modern equipment. Although time-consuming, they are effective for documenting architectural details.
In some situations, simple surveying measurements performed with levels or theodolites are also used. The advantage of traditional methods of surveying monuments is that they can be performed without electricity or a computer, making them well-suited for fieldwork. The development of digital technologies has significantly changed the way surveying monuments is conducted. Electronic total stations are increasingly used, allowing for the rapid collection of data from a large number of measurement points. Photogrammetry and 3D laser scanning offer even greater possibilities. The former method involves processing images taken from various perspectives. This allows for the creation of 2D documentation as well as 3D models representing objects to scale.
Modern techniques are also used for as-built inventories, when it's necessary to compare the condition of a building after renovation work with previous documentation.
The most reliable measurement results are obtained by combining traditional and digital methods. Manual measurements allow for better capture of details, while scanners and total stations accurately map the entire structure of the building. Combining this data ensures precise and complete documentation. This approach is effective not only for documentation itself, but also for renovations, as-built inventories, and planning further conservation work.