Did you know Set in Stonemasonry also builds Retaining Walls, Pathways, Water Features, Seating, Fireplaces and Fire Pits.

This blog post explores the gradual deterioration of chimneys, essential elements in homes with both charm and practicality. It outlines common signs of chimney decay, including crumbling bricks and efflorescence, while shedding light on the root causes such as weather exposure and lack of maintenance. The post provides practical solutions, from inspections and minor repairs to structural assessments and regular maintenance. By understanding and addressing chimney deterioration, homeowners can ensure the longevity and safety of these historical features, keeping their homes warm and inviting for years to come.

This blog post explores the critical importance of selecting the right mortar for historic stone buildings. While cement-based mortars may be popular, they can pose significant risks, such as inflexibility, moisture management issues, compatibility problems, aesthetic discrepancies, and difficulties in removal. In contrast, lime-based mortars offer better solutions to preserve the integrity, beauty, and longevity of these timeless structures. This post highlights why the choice of mortar plays a vital role in safeguarding our architectural heritage.

Repointing is a crucial practice for renewing mortar joints in historic buildings. It preserves architectural heritage by addressing weathered and damaged mortar. The meticulous process involves assessment, gentle mortar removal, cleaning, matching mortar, repointing, and finishing. This restoration not only ensures structural integrity but also enhances visual appeal. Skilled stonemasons blend new and old mortar seamlessly, preserving the building's character. Repointing is a testament to preserving our heritage, combining science and artistry to tell the stories of historical structures for generations to come.

In my journey as a stonemason, I've faced a formidable challenge that silently corrodes the splendor of historic stone houses: salt damage, otherwise known as salt damp. These architectural wonders, soaked in history, endure a continuous assault from soluble salts that infiltrate the stone and surrounding mortar. Rising damp from groundwater and falling damp from rainwater introduce these salts, leaving behind crystalline residues as moisture evaporates. These crystals, expanding and contracting, exert pressure on the stone, causing spalling, cracking, and erosion. My task isn't merely to repair visible damage; it's about preserving the essence and authenticity of these magnificent structures.