This client approached our team in person while we were completing lime pointing works near-by.
Existing cement mortar had failed and fallen away, leaving open joints for rainwater to penetrate upon the front elevation of his own property. The remaining cement was cracking from inflexibility and hard setting, which was also affecting the edges of the stone.
Trapped moisture had begun to evaporate via the stone, as it offered more porosity over the unforgiving cement.
If lime (a traditional material) had been used as mortar instead of cement (a modern material), it would have allowed that moisture to evaporate without affecting the stone. Correctly applied and mixed lime offers a flexible and porous (breathable) system to effectively manage the property welbeing against weather.
As the cottage in question is Grade II Listed, we reviewed our mix proposals with the Bolton area’s Conservation Officer. The agreed mix consisted purely of lime, sand and water.
The stone on the property are notably small in height, resulting in many course which therefore took significant time to rake out the existing mortar and correctly apply the new lime mortar. The client was very pleased with the finish and appreciated the effort taken to achieve the high standards required.
