Stone Work

As a porous medium, stone is prone to water damage when improper mortars allow moisture to penetrate joints and accumulate behind walls. Much of our stonework involves reinstating appropriate lime mortars to let walls “breathe” and prevent decay. With flexibility and vapor permeability, lime mortars give stone resilience, while impervious cement traps moisture and causes harm.

With many years of expertise, Stephen is a master stone mason adept at dry stone walling, retaining walls, and rebuilding ancient rock structures. We remedy common issues like collapse, root invasion, and leakage while retaining the character of aged walls. Stones are re-laid in their original sequence to maintain historic lichen patterns and weathering.

For preservation and longevity of stonework, we exclusively use lime mortars. We frequently undertake repairs by raking out modern cement mortars and repointing with suitable lime mixes instead. Hydraulic lime provides durable setting strength yet retains flexibility to accommodate the slight movement of stone. Pure non-hydraulic lime seals less tenaciously, allowing easier future maintenance. We select the ideal lime type for each project.

From constructing new stone buildings to conserving antique walls, our specialised expertise revitalises and protects this venerable material. The breathability and organic nature of lime mortars keep stone alive and intact without disruptive modern interventions. Proper lime repointing rescues damaged walls and fortifies them for generations to come. With care and respect for traditional methods, we ensure the millennia-old craft of stonemasonry carries on. Our meticulous, time-tested techniques are the best practice for maintaining the beauty and resilience of your stone.