Getting Our Hands Dirty – The Real Way to Learn Lime and Stone

In the world of heritage restoration and traditional building, there’s no shortage of people selling lime and stone. Many suppliers and consultants can tell you the science, the chemical reactions, and the historical context—but how many have actually spent time on the tools, getting their hands dirty?

At Salthouse Stonemasonry, we believe that real knowledge doesn’t just come from reading or selling materials—it comes from working with them, testing them, and understanding how they behave in real-world conditions. That’s why we don’t just talk about lime and stone; we use them, experiment with them, and refine our methods to ensure we get the best results on every project.

The Difference Between Knowing and Doing

There’s a huge difference between understanding the theory of lime mortar and actually using it. Factors like sand type, curing conditions, and application techniques all play a crucial role in performance. A mix that looks good on paper might behave completely differently once applied to a real building, in real weather conditions, with real masonry. That’s why experience on the tools is invaluable—it allows us to learn firsthand what works, what doesn’t, and how to adapt.

How We Test and Experiment with Lime Mortar

At Salthouse Stonemasonry, we don’t just rely on standard mixes. We take the time to experiment with different sands, lime types, and ratios to find the best solution for each application. One way we do this is by building small trial walls—controlled test areas where we can assess how different mixes react and cure over time.

These trial walls allow us to:

- See how various sands affect the workability, colour, and durability of the mortar

- Test different lime types, including hot lime and hydraulic lime, to understand their strengths and weaknesses

- Observe how mixes perform in different weather conditions, from summer heat to freezing winters

- Fine-tune our approach to ensure we use the best possible mortar for each job

Putting Our Money Where Our Mouth Is

We don’t just experiment in a workshop and leave it at that—we take our findings straight to the projects we work on. When we contract a job, we use the mixes we’ve tested and proven, ensuring that every application is based on real-world experience, not just theory.

This hands-on approach means we can confidently recommend the right materials and techniques, knowing they’ve been tried and tested under the same conditions we’ll be working in. It also means that our clients get the benefit of expert craftsmanship backed by practical research, not just textbook knowledge.

Why This Matters for Restoration and Conservation

When working on historic buildings, making the wrong choice in materials can cause long-term damage. Cement-based mortars, for example, can trap moisture and lead to stone decay, while poorly matched lime mixes can weaken a structure rather than strengthen it. That’s why hands-on experience is so important—it ensures that every decision we make is backed by a true understanding of how the materials perform in practice.

At Salthouse Stonemasonry, we’re committed to continuous learning, testing, and refining our approach. Whether it’s a repointing job, a full restoration, or a new build using traditional materials, we apply the knowledge gained from years of hands-on work to achieve the best results.

Experience Over Theory – Why It Matters

If you’re looking for expert advice on lime and stone, make sure you’re getting it from people who actually use the materials, not just sell them. The best knowledge comes from experience, and at Salthouse Stonemasonry, we’re proud to say that we’ve learned by doing.

If you need help with stone restoration, lime mortar selection, or traditional building techniques, get in touch. We’re always happy to share our knowledge and expertise, whether it’s through advice, testing, or hands-on craftsmanship.

Let’s build something that lasts—together.