For example, brick buildings can be dated on the basis of archive research, archaeological building surveys, material use and the historical traits of architectural styles.

Wooden buildings can be dated using the same methods, and dendrochronology (tree-ring dating) is also highly relevant.

It is normal within the area of documentation and surveying to use photographic documentation and traditional surveying. In recent years, laser scanning has been developed as a surveying method.

Scanning saves a lot of time because the raw data in the form of 3D point clouds can be collected within one or two days.

These can then be used directly or converted into a working drawing to produce traditional 2D architectural drawings such as wall profiles, ground plans, cross-sections, long sections or especially desired building components.