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Restoration & Refurbishment

Why is my old lime mortar shot? Answers from lime experts pls.

Anonymous user 09/03/2024 - 2.55 PM

G'day Bruces The lime mortar of my 1900 house is very dry and crumbly, so when I drill it the bit spins away from the centre. What's the most likely reason for it being so crumbly, and is there anything that can be done to remedy this? Am thinking that 1 or/and 2 below could have resulted in the mortar not getting the moisture it needs and drying out. More info: 1) house is pebbledashed/roughcast but not sure when this went on; 2) plaster is also lime but was papered over and painted on numerous occasions. Thanks for any info.

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2 Answers

ServiceBase Ltd

Rating: 5 out of 5
Rhyl
Hello Lime mortar does turn to dust over time. You'll find its OK as long as its not disturbed. No solution other than replacing it all. Incidentally if the building is listed and you have to use lime putty mortar it will cure hard and take many years to break down again. Hope this helps.
Answered27 February 2018
1

ADR Property Maintenance

Rating: 5 out of 5
Boston
I would add it will would be beneficial as it will be a solid brick building to replace it like for like with N.H.L. mortar Regardless of whether the building is listed or not to allow your building to breathe and prevent damp. Good luck alex
Answered27 February 2018
1