This was another example of modern plaster on historic fabrics, including stone walls, riven lath and historic lime plaster. The plaster removal was straightforward, revealing the aforementioned stone walls and original riven lath with handmade nails. The stone walls still retained their original lime pointing due to the fact it was an external wall until sometime between 1930 and 1940.
Surprise electrical wiring, brick wall rebuilds and copious amounts of dust aren't a great deal of fun, but if you're lucky enough to find a 200-year-old coin, it'll make your day.
A fair amount of re-lathing was required, whilst retaining as much of the original as possible. If the lath isn't rotten and still retains its strength, then leave it alone. This area was plastered using Natural Hydraulic Lime 2. It received the traditional 3 coats and a further 4th to achieve a smoother finish. Each coat was trowelled on and then straightened with a wooden or sponge float. This meant going over each section of wall 8 times. Even with just the traditional 3 coats, it consists of a considerable amount of work which helps explain why traditional lime plastering takes longer and costs more than the modern equivalent.
This particular job awaits painting and finishing. What one should expect from lime plastering can include lath repairs, a haired first coat, unhaired second coat and a final 3rd coat (Traditionally). Lime will also generally turn mortars a lovely, creamy white, whether it's a plaster, render or pointing mortar.
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