THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY

Initial Survey & Condition

Thatched Cottage built using a local soft Malme Stone. Externally areas of stonework had caused concern for the owners. The condition of the stonework was in poor condition mainly at ground level. The soft nature of the Malme had been affected by the hardness of the lime mortars originally used, moisture ingress and freezing cycles had also caused laminating. Ivy growth had buried into parts of the lean-to walling and the  lack of guttering/drainage had also affected the condition and moisture ingress. Previous inappropriate cement repairs to stonework had also caused further decay.

Schedule of Repairs

1. Source a new matching stone for the repairs, Malme Stone is no longer quarried
2. Stone to be cut to random lengths and width matching original coursing and bonding
3. Remove localised areas of decayed stone at ground level , in stages to avoid collapse
   • On the gable end wall within the oil shed. Rebuild using matching stone laid in weak lime mortars.
   • External Door jamb in brick & stone where ivy has dislodged the structure.
   • External flank 
4. Remove staged areas of decayed stone at ground level on the gable end wall within the shed
5. Rebuild using matching stone laid in weak lime mortar.