Case Study Library
This Case Study Library brings together examples of the heritage repointing work we carry out across Oxfordshire and surrounding counties. It includes our full conservation‑grade project in Marsh Gibbon, along with example heritage case studies that demonstrate the traditional methods, materials, and standards we apply to every building we work on.
Even when a project is not tied to a specific address, each example reflects the same approach: correct mortar selection, careful removal of damaging cement, hand‑tooled finishes, and the use of breathable lime mortars suited to historic brick and stone.
This library acts as a central resource for homeowners, surveyors, and conservation officers who want to understand the level of detail and craftsmanship involved in our work.
Featured Project
Marsh Gibbon Farmhouse – Full Non‑Hydraulic Lime Repointing
A large brick‑and‑stone farmhouse repointed using non‑hydraulic lime mortar. The project involved full cement removal, hand‑tooled finishes, and careful lime curing to restore breathability and protect the historic fabric.
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Heritage Example Case Studies
These example case studies demonstrate the traditional methods and conservation‑grade techniques we use on period properties. They are not tied to specific client locations but accurately represent the standards applied to every heritage project.
Victorian Brick Repointing
Heritage Example Project
A typical Victorian brick elevation repointed using non‑hydraulic lime mortar. Cement was removed by hand to protect the arrises, joints were compacted and finished with a brushed‑back texture, and the original narrow joint profile was reinstated. This example demonstrates correct lime selection for soft Victorian brickwork and the importance of breathability.
Edwardian Brickwork
Example Lime Putty Repointing
An Edwardian façade showing how lime putty mortar is used to restore the softer, more decorative joint styles common to the period. The project involved careful joint preparation, hand‑tooling, and controlled curing to prevent shrinkage. This example highlights the subtle differences in joint character between Edwardian and Victorian brickwork.
Georgian Elevation
Example Conservation Case Study
A mixed brick‑and‑stone Georgian elevation repointed using a non‑hydraulic lime mortar matched to the building’s original aggregate. The work demonstrates how lime is used to unify different masonry types, maintain breathability, and preserve the crisp, shallow joint profiles typical of Georgian construction.
Cement Removal & Lime Restoration
Example Project
An example showing the safe removal of hard cement mortar from historic brickwork. All cement was raked out by hand to avoid vibration damage, followed by reinstatement with a soft, breathable lime mortar. This case study demonstrates the risks of cement on older buildings and the correct conservation‑grade approach to reversing the damage.
Victorian Brick Repointing – Heritage Example Project
A typical Victorian brick elevation repointed using non‑hydraulic lime mortar. Cement was removed by hand to protect the arrises, joints were compacted and finished with a brushed‑back texture, and the original narrow joint profile was reinstated. This example demonstrates correct lime selection for soft Victorian brickwork and the importance of breathability.
Edwardian Brickwork – Example Lime Putty Repointing
An Edwardian façade showing how lime putty mortar is used to restore the softer, more decorative joint styles common to the period. The project involved careful joint preparation, hand‑tooling, and controlled curing to prevent shrinkage. This example highlights the subtle differences in joint character between Edwardian and Victorian brickwork.
Georgian Elevation – Example Conservation Case Study
A mixed brick‑and‑stone Georgian elevation repointed using a non‑hydraulic lime mortar matched to the building’s original aggregate. The work demonstrates how lime is used to unify different masonry types, maintain breathability, and preserve the crisp, shallow joint profiles typical of Georgian construction.
Cement Removal & Lime Restoration – Example Project
An example showing the safe removal of hard cement mortar from historic brickwork. All cement was raked out by hand to avoid vibration damage, followed by reinstatement with a soft, breathable lime mortar. This case study demonstrates the risks of cement on older buildings and the correct conservation‑grade approach to reversing the damage.
Hot Lime Mortar Repairs – Example Application
A demonstration of hot‑mixed lime used for sensitive repairs on older masonry. Hot lime was chosen for its excellent bond strength, flexibility, and ability to cope with irregular or weathered brick and stone. This example shows how hot lime can stabilise failing areas while remaining fully compatible with historic fabric.
Chimney Repointing – Heritage Example Case Study
A traditional brick chimney repointed using non‑hydraulic lime mortar. The project included cement removal, brick repairs, and reinstatement of a weather‑resistant but breathable joint profile. This example highlights the importance of lime on chimneys, where moisture movement and thermal expansion are constant.
Technique‑Based Case Studies
How We Remove Cement Safely from Historic Brickwork
A detailed look at the controlled, hand‑tool method used to remove cement without damaging brick arrises. This example explains depth, tooling, dust control, and the importance of avoiding power tools on heritage masonry.
How We Apply and Finish Non‑Hydraulic Lime Mortar
A step‑by‑step demonstration of lime application, including joint preparation, compaction, tooling, and brushing back. This case study shows how traditional finishes are achieved and why slow‑setting lime is ideal for older buildings.
How We Match Historic Joint Profiles by Hand
An example showing how joint styles are identified, replicated, and finished to match the building’s original character. Covers flush, weather‑struck, tuck, and brushed‑back profiles.
How We Protect Lime Mortar During Curing
A technique case study explaining hessian protection, moisture control, shading, and the slow carbonation process. This demonstrates why correct curing is essential for long‑term durability.
How We Repair Spalled Bricks in Heritage Buildings
A demonstration of brick replacement and repair techniques, including lime‑based repair mortars, matching brick types, and avoiding modern hard materials that cause further decay.
What These Case Studies Demonstrate
- Correct mortar selection for historic buildings
- Safe, controlled removal of damaging cement
- Traditional hand‑tool methods
- Authentic joint finishes and textures
- Breathable, flexible lime mortars
- Long‑term protection of brick and stone
- Conservation‑grade workmanship across all property types
Before & After Gallery
A visual collection showing the transformation achieved through conservation‑grade repointing, including:
- Cement removal vs lime reinstatement
- Close‑ups of joint profiles
- Brick and stone repairs
- Finished elevations
Related Heritage Resources
- Surrey