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Traditional Lime Mortar

We offer a high-quality lime mortar wall service to repair and repoint buildings and walls that are built with lime mortar using the highest quality limes and aggregates that match the original mortar. We also construct new walls using lime mortar and traditional techniques..

Traditional lime mortar walls are a timeless and environmentally friendly construction method. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:

1. Preparation and Materials

  • Gather Materials: You'll need lime putty, sand, water, and bricks or stones. Ensure the sand is well-graded and compatible with lime.

  • Mixing Mortar: Mix the lime putty with sand in a 1:3 ratio (1 part lime putty to 3 parts sand) to achieve a workable consistency. Allow the mix to mature for 24 hours if possible.

2. Foundation

  • Check Foundation: Ensure the foundation is level and strong enough to support the wall. If needed, dig and pour a new foundation with concrete.

  • Damp Proofing: Apply a damp-proof course to prevent moisture from rising into the wall.

3. Laying the First Course

  • Set Cornerstones: Start by laying cornerstones to establish the wall's height and alignment.

  • Lay Bricks/Stones: Spread a layer of lime mortar on the foundation, and place the first brick or stone. Tap it gently to ensure it's level.

  • Continue Laying: Lay subsequent bricks/stones in a straight line, maintaining consistent mortar joints.

4. Building the Wall

  • Stagger Joints: Ensure that the joints are staggered from one course to the next for stability.

  • Apply Mortar: Use a trowel to apply mortar to the sides and top of each brick/stone before placing it.

  • Check Level and Plumb: Regularly check that the wall is level and plumb (vertically straight) as you build.

5. Pointing

  • Finishing Joints: Once a section of the wall is built, use a pointing trowel to shape and smooth the mortar joints, ensuring they are slightly recessed or flush with the bricks/stones.

  • Curing: Allow the lime mortar to cure slowly. Keep the wall damp and protect it from direct sunlight and rain for at least a week to ensure proper curing.

6. Maintenance

  • Inspect Regularly: Check the wall periodically for any signs of damage or wear.

  • Repointing: If the mortar joints deteriorate over time, repoint with fresh lime mortar to maintain the wall's integrity.

Traditional lime mortar walls offer excellent breathability and flexibility, making them suitable for various climates and historic preservation projects. If you prefer, our skilled team at Belvoir Home and Garden is ready to assist you with professional lime mortar wall construction services!

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