Traditional Lime Repointing
Lime repointing is an important part of maintaining many traditional stone buildings. Clarke Heavey provides professional lime repointing using appropriate lime mortar and traditional techniques, helping protect existing masonry while preserving the character of the property.
What is Lime Repointing?
Repointing involves removing deteriorated mortar from the joints between individual stones and replacing it with new mortar. Lime repointing uses lime-based mortar and is particularly associated with traditional stone buildings and masonry.
The appropriate mortar and technique depend on the construction and condition of the individual building, so the existing masonry should be assessed before repointing work begins.
Why Use Lime Mortar?
Breathability
Lime mortar has different moisture-management properties from many modern cement-based mortars and can be appropriate for traditional masonry.
Compatibility
Traditional buildings were often constructed using materials designed to work together. Using compatible mortar can help maintain the performance of the existing masonry.
Flexibility
Lime mortar has different physical characteristics from harder cement-based mortars, making it suitable for certain traditional construction methods.
Traditional Appearance
Properly finished lime pointing can complement the character and appearance of traditional stonework.
Signs Your Property Need Repointing
- Crumbling mortar
- Missing pointing
- Cracked mortar joints
- Deeply recessed joints
- Loose areas of mortar
- Exposed stone edges
- Failed previous pointing
- Water penetration associated with deteriorating joints
Our Lime Repointing Process
1. Assessing the Existing Stonework
We begin by conducting a survey on the condition of the masonry and identifying the areas requiring attention.
2. Removing Failed Mortar
Deteriorated mortar is carefully removed from the joints while taking care to avoid unnecessary damage to the surrounding stone.
3. Preparing the Joints
The joints are prepared appropriately before new mortar is applied.
4. Applying the Lime Mortar
Suitable lime mortar is applied to the prepared joints using appropriate techniques.
5. Finishing & Curing
The pointing is finished appropriately and protected during the curing process where necessary.
Lime Repointing for Traditional Stone Buildings
Older stone buildings can behave differently from modern construction. Their stone, mortar and overall construction were often designed to manage moisture in a particular way.
For this reason, repointing a traditional building requires more consideration than simply removing old mortar and filling the joints with a modern alternative.
Lime Mortar vs Cement Mortar
The choice of mortar should be based on the construction and requirements of the individual building. Traditional masonry often benefits from compatible materials, which is why lime mortar can be appropriate for many older stone properties.
The existing masonry should always be assessed before deciding which mortar is suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is lime repointing?
Lime repointing involves removing deteriorated mortar from between stones and replacing it with suitable lime mortar. It is commonly used when working with traditional stone buildings and masonry.
Why is lime mortar used on old stone buildings?
Lime mortar was widely used in traditional masonry and has different properties from many modern cement-based mortars. It can provide a compatible and breathable solution for certain traditional buildings.
How do you know if my property needs repointing?
Crumbling, missing or cracked mortar, deeply recessed joints and exposed stone edges can all indicate deteriorating pointing. A survey or assessment can help determine whether repointing is required.
Can you repoint an old stone wall?
Yes. Clarke Heavey provides lime repointing for traditional stone walls and buildings. The existing stone and mortar are considered when determining the appropriate approach.
Can cement pointing be replaced with lime mortar?
In some situations, existing cement pointing can be carefully removed and replaced with lime mortar. However, the suitability of this approach depends on the construction and condition of the building.
How long does lime repointing take?
The timescale depends on the size and condition of the property, the amount of existing mortar that needs to be removed and the complexity of the work. Weather conditions can also affect the application and curing of lime mortar.