STONEMASONRY & BUILDING RESTORATION
Douglas Masonry
What is Lime Mortar Pointing
Lime mortar pointing involves removing deteriorated mortar from between stone joints and replacing it with breathable lime mortar. Unlike cement, lime mortar allows moisture to escape from the wall, helping to protect the surrounding stonework and prevent long-term deterioration.
Why Use Lime Mortar Instead of Cement?
Many traditional stone buildings were originally built using lime mortar. Using hard cement mortar can trap moisture within the wall, leading to:
❌ Stone damage and erosion
❌ Cracking and movement
❌ Damp issues within the building
Lime mortar is flexible and breathable, allowing the building to move naturally while protecting the stone.
Signs Your Stonework Needs Repointing
Lime mortar pointing involves removing deteriorated mortar from between stone joints and replacing it with breathable lime mortar. Unlike cement, lime mortar allows moisture to escape from the wall, helping to protect the surrounding stonework and prevent long-term deterioration.
✅ Mortar joints crumbling or missing
✅ Cracks appearing in mortar joints
✅ Damp patches on internal walls
✅ Loose or shifting stonework
✅ Previous cement pointing causing damage
Why Choose Douglas Masonry
Douglas Masonry specialises in stone repair and restoration across Galashiels and the Scottish Borders.
With over 20 years experience working with traditional stone buildings, we deliver high-quality masonry repairs built to last.
✅ Over 20 years stone masonry experience
✅ Traditional stone repair techniques
✅ Specialists in lime mortar pointing
✅ Structural understanding of stone buildings
✅ Local Scottish Borders stonemason
✅ Reliable and professional service
How Lime Mortar Pointing is Carried Out
Existing mortar is carefully removed to the appropriate depth before new lime mortar is applied using traditional techniques. The joints are finished to suit the style of the building, ensuring the repair blends naturally with the existing stonework.
Care is taken throughout to protect the surrounding masonry and achieve a durable, long-lasting finish.
Lime Mortar Pointing
Across the Scottish Borders
Lime mortar pointing is essential for maintaining traditional stone buildings across the Scottish Borders, particularly in areas such as Kelso, Melrose and Galashiels where many properties are built using natural stone.
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Melrose
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St Boswells
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Lauder
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Jedburgh
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Hawick
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Coldstream