Lime Ash Floor

[Neil]

Hi, I have a 1780's property in Staffordshire, which has lime ash floors on the 1st and 2nd floors. Both of these need to be replaced as they have had various bodged attempts at repair over its lifetime. We are keen to replace in the same, I can source the lime, laths and animal hair and need to investigate the agrigate/ash used. The question is what ratio should these be mixed and I assume that a whole floor wouldnt have been completed in one session originally. Areas are roughly 25 and 40m2. Very hands on so no worries tackling this ourselves, have mixer etc and have already re pointed most of the outside with lime mortar. Any advice appreciated, Thanks Neil

 

[Kearn]

Have a check of the SPAB and HE guides which are downloadable.

Most tend to be repairable and salvageable, full replacement is likely to be the nuclear, less preferable option (for many reasons).

They’re fairly rare, so you’re lucky to have them still in place.

I believe, that many don’t repair, and they get removed, as the setting time is excessive and that is obviously limiting for most lived in houses!

The mix is a bit unique from memory, but this is all just memories from various reading, as sadly I’ve never had one.