Building limes: an introduction

The programme explains the properties of lime (including how it differs from Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)) and how it is used in today's construction industry, particularly in mortars, renders and decorative work.

The programme will be of particular use to architects and project managers with an interest in the conservation and restoration of older properties.

Filmed on site and also in the workshop and office of Treasure & Son (experts in traditional lime works) in Ludlow, Shropshire, the programme includes footage of lime plastering, pointing and rendering. As well as featuring renowned lime expert Stafford Holmes, there are demonstrations from traditional plasterers including how the all-important 'scratch coat' should be applied.

Key learning points:

• What is lime and what are its properties compared with OPC?
• How lime is used: the basics of lime pointing, rendering and plastering
• The differences and benefits of hydraulic and non-hydraulic lime

Discussion points:

• What are the benefits/differences between lime and OPC
• Where do building limes come from and what is slaking?
• What is the difference between hydraulic and non-hydraulic limes?
• What are pozzolans and what do they do?
• Why is the scratch coat so important in lime renders and plasters?

About the contributors

Stafford Holmes Dip Arch RIBA, is a consultant and expert in traditional building methods at Leamington Spa-based architectural practice Rodney Melville & Partners. As well as being a regular on the lecture circuit, Stafford is the author of a number of seminal books on the use of lime in construction and is currently the chairman of the Building Limes Forum.

Stuart Preece, Traditional Plasterer, has been involved with plasterwork for 23 years. He and his team of craftsmen (who have carried out many projects for Treasure & Son), specialise in the application of all forms of lime plasterwork including stucco facades, decorative mouldings, gauged brick and stonework.

Stuart has worked on a variety of period properties throughout Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands.

Disclaimer: NBS TV programmes are the intellectual property of RIBA Enterprises and it shall be a breach of this right to copy, or in any way exploit commercially or show in public any of the programmes without the express permission of RIBA Enterprises.

The information contained in the programmes is not intended and accordingly shall not be relied upon either as a substitute for professional advice or judgement or to provide legal or other advice with respect to any particular circumstance. RIBA Enterprises accepts no responsibility for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of the information contained in the programmes.