What we do
We assess wall condition, context and historic construction method, then carry out tailored interventions using traditional dry‑stone techniques and compatible repairs. Typical works include careful dismantling and rebuild of unstable sections, through‑stone and tie‑stone reinstatement, re‑batter and core re‑packing, capping and coping repairs, consolidation of collapsed areas, repointing with lime mortars only where historically appropriate, and sympathetic repair of gateways, piers and stiles. All repairs use matching stone, traditional setting methods and hand tools to protect original character.
Why use conservation dry stone techniques
- Preserve traditional craft: Maintain historic laying patterns, coursing, bonding and tooling that define the wall’s character.
- Allow natural drainage: Dry joints permit vapour and water movement, reducing trapped moisture and salt issues.
- Support landscape and biodiversity: Retain crevices and habitats for flora and fauna that depend on historic walls.
- Avoid inappropriate materials: Prevent damage from cement mortars or mechanical fixing which can cause long‑term failure.
Key benefits
- Authentic repairs: Matching stone type, pinning and course repair preserve visual and structural integrity.
- Durable stability: Correct batter, through‑stones and core packing restore longevity and resistance to frost, root action and livestock.
- Low‑impact methods: Hand tools, minimal mechanical disturbance and protective measures preserve archaeology and adjacent features.
- Ecological sensitivity: Work sequencing and timing minimise disturbance to nesting birds and protected species; wildlife‑friendly reinstatement of habitats is provided.
Conservation & listed‑building protocol
- Survey & recording: Measured drawings, photographic records, historic construction analysis and material identification to inform works.
- Trials & methodology: Test rebuilds or coping repairs where required; method statements prepared for conservation officers or estate managers.
- Documentation: Full record of dismantled stone, rebuild sequence, stone sources and any archaeological finds supplied for the archive.
- Minimum intervention: Repairs follow “like‑for‑like” and reversibility principles, using traditional techniques and locally sourced stone where possible.
Typical workflow
- Condition survey — record stability, coursing, species/habitat presence, foundations and previous repairs.
- Analysis & specification — identify stone types, core infill material and historic bonding; prepare specification and programme.
- Trial & approvals — trial rebuild or coping detail where needed and agree approach with stakeholders.
- Carefully dismantle unstable sections — number and store reusable stones, protect archaeology and adjacent vegetation.
- Rebuild & consolidation — re‑bed and core pack with selected stone, reinstate through‑stones, set correct batter, reinstate copings and pinning.
- Finishing & aftercare — tidy elevations, reinstate habitat niches, provide post‑work monitoring and maintenance guidance.
- Handover — full photographic record, stone schedule, maintenance advice and specification for future repairs.
Why choose us
- Traditional craft skills: Experienced dry‑stone masons versed in regional styles and historic techniques.
- Conservation first: Work planned and executed to conserve heritage value, ecology and landscape context.
- Comprehensive service: From survey and recording to sensitive rebuild, ecological mitigation and full documentation.
Specifications & site assessment
Provide wall type (boundary, retaining, field, drystone dyke), stone type/size, length/height of sections, foundation conditions and any ecological or archaeological constraints and we will prepare a bespoke specification, trial programme and costed proposal.
Should you have any further questions or wish to discuss your specific lime rendering, external wall insulation, general rendering or flow screed project, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to working with you.
