STONE.
Natural Stone Properties and Features | Heritage Building Restoration
Why Choose Natural Stone?
Natural stone has been at the heart of building and design in the UK for centuries — and it remains one of the most desirable materials today. Strong, durable, and timeless, stone offers a unique beauty that manufactured products can’t replicate.
Choosing natural stonework means investing in a material that not only lasts for generations but also adds authentic character to your home or project. Whether you’re restoring a historic property or commissioning something new, stone provides unmatched strength, sustainability, and elegance.
If you’re searching for traditional stonemasonry services in the UK, Salthouse Stonemasonry combines heritage craftsmanship with modern precision to deliver outstanding results.
Benefits of Lime
-
Breathability: Lime allows moisture to evaporate naturally, helping older walls stay dry and healthy
-
Flexibility: It moves with traditional structures, reducing the risk of cracking
-
Aesthetics: It develops a soft, aged finish that blends beautifully with stone and historic materials
-
Sustainability: With low embodied energy and long-term durability, lime is one of the most eco-friendly materials for building and repair
Where We Source Our Stone?
At Salthouse Stonemasonry, we believe the best stonework begins with the best stone. That’s why we source our stone locally, working directly with trusted quarries in the UK. By doing so, we know exactly where each piece of stone comes from, how it has been quarried, and the strengths it offers for different projects.
This local approach means we can guarantee not only the quality and durability of the stone but also its suitability for the UK’s climate and building traditions. Over the years, we’ve built strong relationships with quarry operators, giving us confidence in the authenticity, sustainability, and long-lasting performance of the stone we use.
Whether it’s local limestone for a fireplace, sandstone for a garden feature, or matching stone for restoration work, we carefully select materials that complement your property and stand the test of time.
-
Breathability: Lime allows moisture to evaporate naturally, helping older walls stay dry and healthy
-
Flexibility: It moves with traditional structures, reducing the risk of cracking
-
Aesthetics: It develops a soft, aged finish that blends beautifully with stone and historic materials
-
Sustainability: With low embodied energy and long-term durability, lime is one of the most eco-friendly materials for building and repair
Benefits of Lime
Our Commitment
At Salthouse Stonemasonry, we're committed to reviving the use of traditional materials that honour the integrity of historic buildings. We specialise in the expert application of hot lime mortars, using methods rooted in centuries of craftsmanship. Every project is carried out in line with SPAB principles and current heritage conservation guidelines, ensuring authenticity, breathability, and long-term durability.
Our Commitment
At Salthouse Stonemasonry, we're committed to reviving the use of traditional materials that honour the integrity of historic buildings. We specialise in the expert application of hot lime mortars, using methods rooted in centuries of craftsmanship. Every project is carried out in line with SPAB principles and current heritage conservation guidelines, ensuring authenticity, breathability, and long-term durability.
What is Lime Mortar
Lime mortar is a traditional building material used for centuries in historic construction. It’s made by mixing lime, sand, and water but not all lime is the same.
-
Hot Lime (or ‘hot mixed’ lime) is made by slaking quicklime directly with water and sand. It’s breathable, flexible, and ideal for conservation.
-
Non - Hydraulic (includes hot lime mortars) are air curing mortars that draw carbon out of the atmosphere to cure.
-
NHL (Natural Hydraulic Lime) comes in various strengths (NHL 2, 3.5, 5) and is often used in restoration work where faster setting is needed.
Lime mortars were standard in the UK until cement replaced them in the 20th century — but they’re now making a comeback in heritage building restoration for good reason.
What We Craft In Stone?
At Salthouse Stonemasonry, we create bespoke stonework that blends traditional craftsmanship with timeless design. Every piece is hand-finished with precision and care, ensuring it enhances both the look and value of your property.
Our work ranges from practical features to decorative details, including:
-
Fireplaces and hearths
-
Window and door surrounds
-
Hand-carved lettering and memorials
-
Garden features and stone landscaping
-
Architectural details and restorations
Whether you’re looking for a custom-built feature or skilled restoration of existing stonework, our team has the expertise to bring your ideas to life.
