Home Restoration & Conservation has successfully managed numerous contracts focused on the conservation of brickwork throughout the years. Our expertise encompasses the replacement of unsuitable, damaged, and poorly repaired bricks with handcrafted alternatives. Additionally, we specialize in cleaning bricks and stones, conducting brick repairs, rebuilding specific areas, and removing cementitious pointing followed by repointing. Our use of hot mixed mortars is integral to our brick conservation efforts.

Our methodology prioritizes identifying the root causes of deterioration before proceeding with any remedial actions. This careful approach minimizes the extent of repairs needed, thereby reducing the likelihood of recurring issues. By limiting the loss of historic materials, we strive to preserve the building's authenticity and integrity, ensuring that its historical value remains intact. In certain situations, the most prudent course of action may be to refrain from any intervention, allowing the brickwork to remain untouched.

However, when intervention is necessary, conservative repair methods are often viable. Only in rare cases will it be essential to dismantle and reconstruct sections of brickwork, as we aim to maintain the original structure as much as possible.

The deterioration of brick walls is often attributed to a combination of inadequate repairs, lack of maintenance, and inappropriate modifications. Additionally, flaws in design, material selection, and construction practices can significantly contribute to this issue. These elements can lead to various forms of damage, including severe degradation of mortar joints and bricks due to persistent moisture exposure, which may arise from issues such as leaking gutters or the crystallization of salts.

Another common problem is the spalling of brick surfaces, which is frequently exacerbated by frost action, particularly in areas like parapets or chimney stacks. The use of cement mortar instead of lime-based alternatives can further aggravate this condition. Furthermore, structural issues such as cracking or bulging of the brickwork may occur due to external factors, including damage from tree roots, the deterioration of timber lintels above windows and doors, or the removal of load-bearing walls within the structure.

Repairing brickwork typically involves targeted interventions on the joints and bricks themselves. In many instances, only minor repointing of worn joints is necessary, especially after addressing issues like leaking rainwater fittings. For buildings constructed before 1919, it is crucial to utilize lime mortar rather than cement to reduce evaporation through the bricks, thereby minimizing the risk of further deterioration.

The bricks can often be meticulously extracted and repositioned to conceal any signs of deterioration. In cases where historic brickwork exhibits cracks, particularly when horizontal joints are misaligned, brick stitching may serve as a suitable method of repair. If the joints between the bricks are maintained with precision and care is taken during the process, the repair will gradually blend with the surrounding materials over time. In instances where brick faces have deteriorated, the use of coloured mortar, often referred to as 'plastic' repairs, can be employed to restore the appearance and achieve a consistent long-term colour match. This technique allows for the enhancement of the brick's aesthetic while ensuring that the integrity of the structure is preserved.

When it becomes necessary to replace bricks, only those that are significantly damaged should be removed and substituted. Although achieving an exact match can be challenging, we have established connections with reputable suppliers who offer new handmade bricks at competitive prices. The replacement bricks will be selected to closely resemble the existing ones in terms of size, colour, texture, and durability, and they should be installed following the same bonding pattern as the original bricks.

Lime Plastering

Home Restoration Services others traditional lime plastering and rendering with a commitment to excellence, we handle all aspects of both internal and external projects, ensuring the highest quality standards. Our experienced team boasts over 20 years of expertise in working with lime-based materials, equipping us with the necessary knowledge to restore some of the UK's most historic structures.

Historically, lime plaster was the primary finishing material for homes built before 1919 and remained in use until the late 1950s, when more affordable alternatives like plasterboard and gypsum became widely available. Despite the rise of these modern materials, lime plaster and render continue to be favoured for their numerous advantages over cement-based options, particularly in conservation efforts.

One of the standout characteristics of lime plaster is its breathability and flexibility, making it particularly suitable for the restoration of older buildings. Unlike cement, which can trap moisture and lead to structural issues, lime plaster allows for the absorption and evaporation of moisture, promoting a healthier environment. Additionally, its flexibility helps accommodate the natural movements of older structures, reducing the risk of cracking and subsequent water damage.

While cement-based plasters and renders are known for their strength, they significantly lack flexibility. This rigidity makes them susceptible to cracking when a building experiences movement. Such cracks in external walls can lead to water infiltration and dampness, as cement render tends to retain moisture, which can ultimately compromise the integrity of the plaster or render over time.

In contrast, lime-based materials, although not as hard as cement, offer greater flexibility. This characteristic allows them to accommodate movement and thermal expansion, thereby reducing the likelihood of cracking and extending the lifespan of the plaster. The inherent properties of lime contribute to a more resilient finish that can adapt to the natural shifts in a building's structure.

Additionally, lime products are more environmentally friendly due to their lower carbon dioxide emissions during production. The setting process of lime plaster and render further enhances their eco-friendliness, as they absorb carbon dioxide, effectively reducing their overall carbon footprint. The natural appearance of lime, which showcases the colour and texture of the aggregates used, adds a traditional aesthetic to homes, while breathable paint options allow for modern or vibrant finishes.

Natural lime enhances the hue and qualities of the aggregates it is combined with. This mixture typically presents a visually appealing traditional aesthetic, characterized by its light coloration. When paired with a breathable paint, lime plaster can achieve a contemporary or vibrant appearance.