Mortar plays a far greater role in a building’s health than many people realise. In historic stonework, choosing the wrong mortar can cause long-term damage that’s difficult and costly to reverse. One of the most common issues we encounter is the use of modern cement mortar on traditional buildings.
Understanding the difference between lime mortar and cement mortar is essential when maintaining or restoring heritage stonework.
Lime mortar has been used for centuries. It’s softer, more flexible, and breathable, allowing moisture to pass through the joints rather than becoming trapped within the stone. This movement helps protect the masonry by allowing the building to respond naturally to changes in temperature and humidity.
Over time, lime mortar weathers gently and can be easily repaired without harming the surrounding stone.
For heritage structures, lime mortar is almost always the correct choice. Matching the mortar to the stone ensures compatibility, protects the original fabric, and extends the life of the building.
Specialist advice is essential before repointing or repairing any historic stonework.
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