Where’s the job?

Overview

• Heritage stone restoration involves careful cleaning, repair, and conservation to preserve original features.

• Skill level: 4 / 5 (requires specialist knowledge of historic masonry and materials).

• Typical duration: Several days to weeks depending on the extent of decay and required conservation work.

Safety First

• Ensure scaffolding is secure and wearing appropriate PPE such as gloves, eye protection and a dust mask.

• Verify that any structural supports are in place before commencing work on fragile stonework.

• Work gently to avoid further damage, especially when removing lichens or old mortar.

• Use conservation-grade products to ensure compatibility with original stone.

Tools & Materials

Step-by-Step

1. Assess the condition – document decay, moss growth, and old mortar deterioration.

2. Plan restoration – decide on gentle cleaning methods and appropriate repair techniques.

3. Clean the stone – use specialist cleaning agents and soft brushes to eliminate dirt and growth.

4. Remove deteriorated mortar – carefully cut out old joints to prepare for repointing.

5. Repoint the joints – fill with matching lime mortar ensuring compatibility with original materials.

6. Consolidate repairs – treat any areas of structural weakness and stabilise loose stones.

7. Final inspection – ensure the restoration maintains the building’s character and structural integrity.

Completion Checks

• Stone surfaces are uniformly restored with matched mortar and cleaned joints.

• No further moisture ingress or structural issues detected.

• Final documentation confirms compliance with conservation standards.

• The restored stonework maintains its historical charm and structural safety.

When to Call a Pro Instead

If the restoration involves significant structural risks, is on a listed building or requires certified conservation methods, it is recommended to consult with a heritage specialist or conservation architect to ensure compliance and preserve the building's integrity.