In some cases, it may be appropriate to use mortar to repair sculpted or moulded stonework. However, as mortar is significantly different from stone, ensuring a permanent bond between the two materials will be difficult. Therefore, a mortar repair will have a considerably shorter life expectancy than an indent repair.


Mortars mixed from stone dust, lime putty and carefully chosen sands will usually be the most appropriate for mortar repairs. The presence of cement in the mix used for mortar repairs will accelerate decay in the neighbouring stone and should always be avoided.


WEATHER PROOFING SURFACE TREATMENTS In traditional construction, the free movement of water vapour through the fabric of a building in both directions is essential to their longevity and conservation. Consequently, the use of any silene and silicone treatments to weather proof stonework is not recommended. It can result in serious damage if condensation builds up within a stone and the process is not reversible.


MORTAR JOINTS AND POINTING REPAIR In traditionally built stone walling the mortar that was used in its original construction will deteriorate over time and at some stage repointing will be required. If the wall was correctly built in the first place, and depending on climatic conditions and exposure, this is only likely to be required after the first 100 years. If repointed properly a further century of life can be expected without much additional maintenance.


62 Listed Heritage Magazine January/February 2020


Beddgelert Gwnedd Wales (Snowdonia)


Repointing will be necessary when the bedding or jointing mortar becomes decayed, washed out from the wall or when the stones start to become loose and at risk of falling out of place. If left unattended, rainwater can readily penetrate deep into the heart of the wall and lead to further deterioration in the wall and the internal finishes.


Continued >>


Ashlar stone doorcase on a house in Bath


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