Conservation works have aimed at ensuring long term preservation of this monument of national importance by removing inappropriate 20th/ 21st century layers and using traditional materials and architectural craft techniques to restore the design intention of the original builders.
Detailed architectural documentation including condition assessment of the monument was done, as a precursor to conservation works.The layers of cement applied to the monument during past repairs and causing extensive damage to the structure were carefully removed and replaced with lime mortar, structural cracks in the dome and other parts of the building were repaired and sandstone flooring provided. Afinal layer of lime mortar which was used by the 16th century builders to mimic the appearance of more expensive marble was restored to the monument.Prepared with marble dust and egg white, it serves as a protective layer that will quickly get the patina of organic growth during the monsoon.
The domes were also repaired and included removal of multiple layers of inappropriate cement plaster, applied in 2002-4and replacing it with new lime plaster including conservation of architectural elements followed by a 2mm thicklayer of protective lime coat.Damaged lime concrete flooring from the inside the monument was removed and new 50mm thick red sandstoneflooring was laid here.
The missing or damaged Delhi quartzite eave stones (Chajja) were replaced to ensure long term preservation. Delhi quartzite stone steps have been provided in the centre of the northern and eastern side where the principal access pathways leading to the tomb are situated.
On the removal of the cement plaster from the principal dome, a ceramic finial base was uncovered though shattered.This has been removed for safe keeping and will be eventually displayed at the Humayun’s Tomb Interpretation Centre.