Lime Pointing
At Rose & Tucker Construction, we specialise in traditional lime pointing for stone and brick buildings across Devon. Lime mortar has been used for centuries in the construction of historic and period properties, and it remains the most appropriate and effective method for maintaining older buildings today.
Unlike modern cement mortars, lime mortar is breathable. This means it allows moisture to naturally evaporate from the structure rather than trapping it inside the walls. Many older properties were originally built using breathable materials, so using the correct lime-based mortar helps maintain the building’s natural balance.
Why Lime Pointing Is Important
Using lime mortar when repointing traditional buildings provides several important benefits:
Allows buildings to breathe – Moisture can escape naturally through the mortar joints.
Reduces damp issues – Cement pointing can trap moisture, often leading to damp problems inside the property.
Prevents structural damage – Trapped moisture can freeze during colder months, causing expansion and damage to stone or brickwork.
Protects historic masonry – Lime mortar is softer than stone and brick, allowing natural movement and preventing damage to the surrounding materials.
Maintains the character of period properties – Lime pointing preserves the traditional appearance and integrity of older buildings.
Our team carefully removes inappropriate or failing cement mortar and replaces it with a traditional lime mortar mix suited to the building. Every project is approached with attention to detail to ensure the finish matches the character of the property while protecting it for years to come.
Lime Rendering
In addition to lime pointing, we also offer lime rendering, which follows the same breathable principles. Lime render is commonly used on older buildings to protect the structure while allowing moisture to escape through the surface.
Lime render can be applied to:
Stone walls
Brickwork
Cob buildings
Traditional masonry structures
This natural finish not only protects the building but also enhances its traditional appearance, making it ideal for heritage and period properties.
Cob Construction & Repairs
Cob is one of the oldest traditional building methods found throughout Devon and the South West. It is made from a mixture of natural materials including subsoil, clay, sand, straw, and water, creating thick, solid walls with excellent thermal properties.
Because cob is a breathable material, it must be maintained using compatible materials such as lime mortar and lime render. Using modern cement products on cob structures can trap moisture and lead to deterioration of the wall.
At Rose & Tucker Construction, we have experience working with traditional cob buildings, carrying out sympathetic repairs and restoration work that respects the original structure.
Our cob services include:
Cob wall repairs
Lime rendering for cob structures
Traditional lime pointing where required
Restoration of damaged or weathered cob walls
We take great care to ensure all work is completed using the correct traditional materials and methods, helping preserve these unique Devon buildings for future generations.