What Is Lime Pointing?
Lime pointing is the process of sealing the joints between stone bricks using a lime-based mortar. This type of mortar has been used for centuries, and is still considered to be one of the best materials for this purpose. Lime mortar is much more flexible than cement, so it can expand and contract with the stone without cracking. It’s also more breathable, which helps to prevent moisture from getting trapped in the joints and causing problems like mold or mildew.
Lime pointing is a bit more time-consuming than using cement, but the results are well worth it. A properly done lime pointing job will last for many years, and can help to preserve the beauty of your stone walls.
Lime Pointing Vs Cement Pointing
While cement is the most common material used for pointing, lime is actually a much better choice in many cases. Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the key advantages that lime mortar has over cement.
Flexibility: One of the biggest advantages of lime mortar is its flexibility. This quality comes from the fact that lime is not as strong as cement. As a result, it can expand and contract without cracking. This is essential for stone walls, which can shift and settle over time. Cement, on the other hand, is very rigid and will crack if it’s forced to move too much.
Breathability: Another big advantage of using lime mortar is that it’s more breathable than cement. This quality is important because it helps to prevent moisture from becoming trapped in the joints between stones. If moisture is allowed to build up, it can lead to problems like mold or mildew.
Longevity: Despite its flexibility, lime mortar is actually quite durable. Properly applied, it can last for many years. Cement, on the other hand, tends to break down over time and will need to be replaced more frequently.
Ease of Application: Applying lime mortar is actually quite easy. It can be done by hand or with a machine and doesn’t require any special skills or training. Cement, on the other hand, can be difficult to work with and often requires the use of specialized equipment.
As you can see, there are many good reasons to choose lime mortar over cement for your stone wall. If you’re looking for a material that is durable, flexible, and easy to work with, lime is the way to go.
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