Practical use of lime...
Courses - summary
Our lime courses have been designed to teach you the basic skills required to use lime products in a variety of applications. The course leader is Jim Martin, a plasterer with a lifetimes' experience in the use of lime products. All of us have extensive practical experience in working with these products, and regularly work in churches, country houses and private homes undertaking restoration work. To see examples of the sort of work we do, and correspondingly, what you will be learning, have a look at some of the links in the left margin of this page.
The emphasis of these courses is PRACTICAL. There are many sources of theoretical information on the use of lime in historic buildings, and we provide full details of these with references, but the purpose of these courses is to equip the student with a working knowledge of using lime renders, lime putty, lime washes, and working with lath.
Introduction and theory :
All courses share the same component. We discuss the use of lime in historic construction, and how these old methods are now beginning to find favour in more modern construction. The course looks at how lime is made, and covers its components - the various aggregates and other materials which are graded and mixed with it to produce render, mortar, putty and washes.
Courses are then structured according to individual needs, but cover the following topics:
Plastering onto lath :
You will learn how to assess the condition of old lath and plasterwork, how to repair and patch damaged sections. We show you where to source materials, and how to use them. You will work with lath, learning what plasters to use, how to mix, to apply plaster, what tools you will need, and how to achieve a good finish to your work.
Pointing with lime:
We discuss practical examples of pointing, the theory behind why it is done and how it works. You will learn how to mix mortar, and match it to existing pointing using blended materials. We teach the different methods of pointing, how to strike a joint, and you will be expected to point a section of old stone walling to preserve it. You will learn how to ensure that the lime dries slowly and is allowed to set properly. We discuss the tools needed for the job, and you will have an opportunity to use and purchase tools if required.
Lime Washing:
You will learn about the theory and practise of lime washing. We discuss how it is made, and how colours are created. We will mix lime washes and learn how to base coat different materials, building successive coats to achieve a long lasting and professional finish. You will learn tricks of the trade to help you work with backgrounds of varying porosity. Above all, you will learn patience!
Rendering / Plastering onto Stone and Brick:
This is the bit where you need a strong arm! We will teach you how to prepare surfaces and the pitfalls and problems which are ever present. You will learn about the different mixes available, and the suitability of different materials for differing backgrounds. You will apply a base coat, learning how thick this should be - how it is scratched, and how long it needs to dry between coats. You will build to a surface coat, and learn how this is applied and finished.
Plaster finishes:
If you have ever wondered how decorative plasterwork, cornices, stucco mouldings and plaster columns were made, this is the course for you. We start by explaining some of the features of this sort of work - the nomenclature, the array of different types of finish, and show you some of the equipment commonly used. The aim of the course is not neccessarily to make you a plastering expert, but to give you the confidence to look at plasterwork with a trained and knowledgeable eye - to be able to assess damage, to have a feel for the possible cost of repairs, and most importantly, what to ask for if you are bringing in the experts. You will have a working knowledge of different techniques and finishes, and you will be able to make minor repairs yourself.
Mobile Training Courses
We are presently assessing the need for mobile courses. If you would like to discuss the possibility of arranging a course at a particular location (for example County Councils, specific Restoration Projects or locations of significance) please contact us and let us know what topics you would like to cover. We are equipped to bring suitable panels for students to learn on, and provide all materials as per normal.
