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Lime Mortar

As one of the worlds oldest construction materials, lime mortar has a very long and rich history, being found in many of the worlds most iconic buildings. It was first developed by the ancient Egyptians, and was used extensively in building the Roman Empire 2000 years ago. It was used predominantly up until the end of the 19th century, when Portland cement was introduced. This caused a decline of lime mortars, but modern cements have since been found to cause damage to old and historical buildings over time.

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the Benefits

Why use Lime Mortar?

  • Breathability – lime materials are highly breathable, allowing water to pass through, avoiding build up of moisture, and reducing the risk of damp or condensation.
  • Flexibility – lime is relatively flexible, helping to accommodate structural movements, along with thermal expansion and contraction, reducing cracking and de-bonding. 
  • Workability – lime has excellent workability. Having great plasticity makes it easier to work with and shape for an aesthetic finish. 
  • Durability – lime is exceptionally durable. Buildings built using lime products are able to stand the test of time.

 

the benefits

Why use Lime Mortar?

  • Breathability – lime materials are highly breathable, allowing water to pass through, avoiding build up of moisture, and reducing the risk of damp or condensation.
  • Flexibility – lime is relatively flexible, helping to accommodate structural movements, along with thermal expansion and contraction, reducing cracking and de-bonding. 
  • Workability – lime has excellent workability. Having great plasticity makes it easier to work with and shape for an aesthetic finish. 
  • Durability – lime is exceptionally durable. Buildings built using lime products are able to stand the test of time.

 

Variations

Types of Lime Mortar

There are essentially two types of lime; hydraulic lime & non hydraulic lime.

Hydraulic lime sets by using a reaction caused by water (hydrolysis). The more hydraulic a lime is, the faster the setting time will be and higher it’s final strength is. This is used more on external work, especially in exposed or damp conditions. There are 3 different strengths hydraulic lime comes in, NHL5 being the most hydraulic, then NHL3.5, followed by NHL2 being the least hydraulic.

Non-hydraulic lime, commonly known as lime putty is softer and sets much more slowly, which makes it perfect for conservation of delicate masonry. It sets and hardens by absorbing carbon dioxide from the air (carbonation). The carbonation process is very slow and the mortar remains soft and flexible which can be very advantageous if that is what’s required. 

Variations

Types of Lime Mortar

There are essentially two types of lime; hydraulic lime & non hydraulic lime.

Hydraulic lime sets by using a reaction caused by water (hydrolysis). The more hydraulic a lime is, the faster the setting time will be and higher it’s final strength is. This is used more on external work, especially in exposed or damp conditions. There are 3 different strengths hydraulic lime comes in, NHL5 being the most hydraulic, then NHL3.5, followed by NHL2 being the least hydraulic.

Non-hydraulic lime, commonly known as lime putty is softer and sets much more slowly, which makes it perfect for conservation of delicate masonry. It sets and hardens by absorbing carbon dioxide from the air (carbonation). The carbonation process is very slow and the mortar remains soft and flexible which can be very advantageous if that is what’s required. 

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If you are interested in our lime repair services or require more information, please contact us.

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