Frequently asked questions

Generally yes — if your property is listed, any works that affect its character or appearance will require Listed Building Consent from your local planning authority. This includes chimney repairs, repointing and rebuilding. However, like-for-like repairs using the same materials may be exempt. We recommend speaking to your local conservation officer first, and we are happy to advise on what is likely to need consent.

Lime mortar is the traditional mortar used in buildings constructed before the 20th century. Unlike modern cement mortar, lime is soft, flexible and breathable — it allows moisture to move through the wall and evaporate naturally. Using cement mortar on an old building is one of the most damaging things you can do — it is too hard, traps moisture and forces it out through the masonry, causing spalling, cracking and damp. All our work uses lime mortar matched to the original.

We work with all types of flint — random unknapped, hand knapped chalk flint, coursed and galleted flint, flint and brick banding, and decorative flintwork. Whether you need a new garden wall, repairs to an existing wall, flint panels on a new build or repairs to a listed building, we can help. All flint work is laid in traditional lime mortar.

Cost depends on the size of the wall, the type of flint, accessibility and the extent of the repairs needed. We always provide a free no-obligation quote after visiting the site. Call us on 07478 730867 or fill in our contact form and we will arrange a visit.

Yes — we regularly repair and rebuild chimneys on thatched properties, which require particular care and expertise. The chimney stack on a thatched property needs to be in excellent condition as any water ingress can cause serious damage to the roof structure below. We use lime mortar throughout and can advise on the best approach for your specific chimney.

Yes — we have an established track record with major heritage organisations including the National Trust (Greys Court, Oxfordshire) and Historic Royal Palaces (Tower of London). We understand the high standards required for scheduled monument and nationally significant building work and approach all projects with the same level of care.

We are based in Caversham, Reading and primarily serve Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. We also take on projects further afield for the right job — including London. If you are unsure whether we cover your area, call us on 07478 730867 and we will let you know.

Hot mix lime (also called putty lime or non-hydraulic lime) is slaked on site and produces a very soft, flexible mortar ideal for the softest historic masonry. NHL (Natural Hydraulic Lime) mortars set harder and faster and are graded by strength — NHL 2, NHL 3.5 and NHL 5. We select the appropriate mortar for each project based on the age, construction and condition of the building. Getting this right is crucial — the wrong mortar can cause as much damage as cement.

Yes — we carry out masonry condition surveys and produce written reports for homeowners, estate managers, churches and heritage organisations. A condition survey is an excellent starting point for understanding what your building needs and prioritising maintenance works. Contact us to discuss what is involved.

Yes — we offer ongoing maintenance programmes for historic estates, churches and large listed properties. Regular maintenance is by far the most cost-effective way to look after a historic building — catching small problems before they become expensive ones. We provide written reports after each visit and can schedule regular inspections. Wyfold Court in Oxfordshire is one example of a long-term maintenance client.