Lime Repointing Project in Winchester

Introduction

In the summer of 2023, our team embarked on a major lime repointing project at a historic farmhouse in the picturesque Winchester countryside. This property, built between the late 1800s and early 1900s, originally used lime mortar. To maintain its authentic appearance and structural integrity, we selected a lime mortar mix for the restoration.

Scope of the Project

The project involved a complete lime repointing of the farmhouse’s exterior. Our goal was to preserve the property’s historical integrity while addressing structural issues and enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

Initial Assessment and Preparation

Raking Out the Original Mortar

We began by raking out the existing mortar to a depth of 20-25mm. This was done using advanced dust extraction units to minimise mess and dust. This meticulous process took around two weeks to complete and was essential for preparing the surface for new lime mortar.

Brick Replacement

During the raking out process, defective bricks were identified and replaced with high-quality reclaimed bricks from another demolished part of the property. This ensured consistency with the original construction and maintained the building’s historical value.

Structural Repairs

Addressing Wall Tie Issues

As we progressed, our team discovered signs of wall tie failure, including horizontal cracking every six courses of bricks. Using metal detectors and endoscopic equipment, we confirmed these issues. We advised the customer to replace the wall ties while the scaffolding was in place to prevent future disruptions to the repointing work.

Lime Mortar Selection and Application

Choosing the Right Lime Mortar Mix

We provided the customer with several lime mortar samples, varying in colour and texture. The Morstead mix was selected for its close match to the original mortar colour, ensuring a seamless integration with the existing structure.

Applying Heritage Pointing Style

To retain the building’s historical character, we used a heritage pointing style. This technique brought out the natural grit in the lime mortar, replicating the traditional appearance of the original construction.

Project Completion

Final Touches and Repairs

The entire lime repointing project, including brick replacement and repairs to various stone window sills, took approximately 6-7 weeks. Our attention to detail ensured a high-quality restoration that preserved the farmhouse’s historic charm.

Customer Satisfaction and Future Prospects

Restoring this beautiful Winchester farmhouse was a rewarding experience. We are excited to assist with any future restorative needs and look forward to further opportunities to contribute to the preservation of historic properties in the Winchester area.