Lime repointing

[Anonymous]

Can anyone recommend a reliable local builder (we are near Glastonbury in Somerset) preferably with some knowledge of repointing in lime as the house has been previously repointed in cement and it hasn't done the soft blue lias stonework any favours!

 

[Anonymous]

You could come and see what we have done in Shepton Mallet if you wish, follow the link below to get in touch with me and have a look at the project. I should be able to either help or point you in someone elses direction.


My house

 

[Anonymous]

I couldn't get Jon's link to work - hope this one does ...

(as featured on telly, in the Sunday Times, and in Heaps of Delight, the SAVE 2006 Buildings at Risk compilation book - as an example of how to do it well...)


http://www.merchants-house.co.uk

 

[Anonymous]

South Somerset DC have a very comprehensive course (or did a few years ago) Why not have a go yourself as we did? I think it will take us about ten years to complete our garden walls but it is very satisfying work. There are several 'lime tolerant' builders in the area, I recommended one on here (another thread) last week, but don't want anyone to think I am advertising him!

 

[Anonymous]

Hi - I agree with trying to learn how to do it yourself before necessarily resorting to others - I'm going to attend a one day course at the Dorset Rural Skills Centre (in Farrington nr Blandford)in June - I can let you know how it goes - I've never done anything like it before so I'm looking forward to it - who knows I might be good at it??

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the responses. The project in Shepton looks like a vocation! Not sure I'm up to trying it myself. I've had one builder around who recommended raised pointing - is this appropriate?

 

[Anonymous]

Raised - ie 'ribbon' - pointing - noooo!

Sir Alec Clifton-Taylor will be turning in his grave!

I'd contact Jon... if he can't help I'm sure his conservation architect from Caroes will have recommendations.

 

[Anonymous]

I thought not Evelyn, Ribbon isn't recommended on any website I've found, and I don't actually think it looks nice!