Historical Conservation and Pointing

Historical Conservation

At Northern Walls, we take great pride in preserving the heritage of our local communities. We work closely with parish councils and heritage bodies to conserve historical and listed buildings, ensuring they remain standing for future generations to enjoy.

Our most recent project was the restoration of the historic Toll Booth in Topcliffe, where we were entrusted with carefully removing old lime mortar and replacing it with traditional materials and techniques. By using methods sympathetic to the original construction, we protect the integrity of these important structures while extending their lifespan.

Historical conservation requires patience, skill, and a deep respect for the past. Whether it’s maintaining centuries-old walls, restoring lime mortar, or carrying out sensitive repairs, we are committed to keeping history alive through craftsmanship.

Why Lime Mortar?

Lime mortar has been used for centuries in traditional building and remains the best choice for historical conservation. Unlike modern cement, lime mortar is:

• Breathable – it allows moisture to evaporate naturally, preventing trapped damp that can damage old stone or brick.

• Flexible – it can accommodate subtle movement in buildings, reducing the risk of cracks.

• Authentic – using lime mortar ensures repairs are true to the original construction methods, protecting the building’s historical integrity.

By using lime mortar, we help safeguard historic buildings in a way that’s sustainable, sympathetic, and built to last.

Pointing

Pointing is an essential part of maintaining the strength and appearance of stone and brickwork. At Northern Walls, we don’t just work on historical buildings — we also carry out pointing on domestic properties, churches, boundary walls, and more.

Whether it’s the gable end of a house, a crumbling church wall, or part of a listed building, we use the right materials and techniques to ensure the work is both durable and sympathetic to the structure. For heritage projects, we often use lime mortar to protect the building’s integrity, while for modern domestic projects we can match the style and finish to blend seamlessly with existing masonry.

Good pointing not only enhances the look of a building but also prevents water ingress and structural deterioration, helping to protect your property for decades to come.

More photos pending