Here’s how a chainmail keeps a historic mansion from dissolving in rain
Have you ever heard of Helensburgh, Scotland's renowned Hill House? This home is distinct in that it is totally surrounded by an 8-ton, 30,000-ring chainmail box that prevents the structure from collapsing due to heavy rain. Tom Scott, a YouTuber and educator, visits this iconic architectural wonder in his latest video.
This mansion is a perfect example of revolutionary post-Victorian architecture; however, the experimental concrete structure is located in the worst environment for it to thrive, as it rains 190 days per year in the west coast of Scotland.
As a result, the structure started to slowly dissolve "like an aspirin in a glass of water", and it had to be covered with a colossal metal shelter to dry out before engineers could apply a suitable sealant to rehabilitate the building. This drying process will take 15 years, and if you want to see the structure up close and hear its unique story, you can watch the video embedded above. Enjoy!