Lime Training Day 14th September 2023

8th August 2023

We are delighted to be partnering with the Stone Federation to deliver another Lime Training Day, 14th September 2023 at Reading Abbey Ruins, Abbey St, Reading RG1 3BA. This is a unique opportunity to learn more about using lime mortar and practice your skills at the historic Reading Abbey ruins.

Attendees are welcome to bring their own small tools, trowels. Basic tools and materials, including H&S equipment will be provided.

10.00 – 11.30am (Reading Abbey Gate) Classroom presentation: An introduction to using Lime Mortar on historic buildings.

  • The benefits of lime
  • The importance of appropriate specification
  • The Lime cycle and the chemistry of Lime
  • Hydraulic Limes, Pure limes and their uses
  • Binders, Aggregates, Pozzolans
  • Methodology – H&S, mixing, application and tending

11.30 – 12.00 Walk through Reading Abbey Ruins to Reredorter: Brief summary of application of lime mortars

12.00 – 13.00 (Abbey Reredorter) Practical Session 1:

  • H&S safety toolbox talk
  • Mixing demonstration of different binders
  • In pairs – mixing two mortars using NHL and Quicklime

13.00 – 14.00 (Reading Abbey Gate) Lunch

14.00 – 16.00 (Abbey Reredorter) Practical Session 2:

  • Appreciation of different binders and mixes
  • Application of mortar to the Abbey Ruins Walls
  • Techniques for pointing and consolidation
  • Techniques for tending

Tickets Cost: £200 + VAT (pre-booking required)
Email sara@stonefed.org.uk to book your place.