Case Studies:
Grade II Former Mill Repairs

Formerly Deane Mills Institute, this Grade II Listed building had been converted into living apartments. Limited exterior works had been undertaken during the conversion.

Some twenty years on, the building was suffering from water ingress, which our client admirably worked into a larger exterior maintenance plan.

The immediate priority was to address water ingress. Following our investigation, we recommended and undertook the following works:

Repointing Stone Copings

At the front of the property is an apex of large decorative stone copings. Over time, the lime mortar between these copings had deteriorated and completely washed away with weathering. To lift the large heavy copings to assess the condition of materials beneath would have been a significant undertaking. Lead toppings were discussed as an option, though it was initially agreed for lime mortar to be packed and filled between the copings as an economic first stage repair.

Filleting of Arch Windows

The front of the property features three large arched windows. The extruded stone window detail was flat, which had allowed water to gather and wash away mortar at the stone wall. An angled lime mortar fillet was created allowing water to run away from the building.

Patch Pointing to Stonework

The high-level rear stone wall needed patch pointing – and areas of further filleting – to function against further water ingress.

Roof Repairs

Minor repairs were made to maintain the integrity of the roof. Damaged Welsh slates were replaced with reclaimed stock and the ridges were rebed on a lime mix mortar.

Serviced Guttering

The front gutters were leaking, so hoppers and downpipes were rodded and cleaned to prevent overflow.

Repointing to Stone Steps

Not related to water ingress, a flight of stone steps was also repointed in lime as part of the works as the previous mortar to the yorkstone and stone had failed. The debris was cleaned away and a durable lime mix was applied which made access easier on even surfaces.

There can be an element of trial and error in anything short of major restoration work. Our experience accurately identified the specific areas of concern for swift resolution. We accept that an ideal solution (such as employing cranes to lift stone copings) can be prohibitively expensive, and are happy to have provided acceptable alternatives to suit the needs of the client.

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