Directory of Traditional Building Skills - Mourne Heritage Trust

e) ConsolidantsChemical consolidants can delay weathering of stone and help delay or avoid replacement.However, the associated chemistry and geology is complex and specialist scientific andlaboratory assistance is required with full testing before application.f) RedressingWhen surface failure has occurred a technique sometimes considered is the redressing of thestonework to its original profile. This is a skilled stonemasons’ task. It is possible to refacechemically consolidated stonework as discussed under item (e), particularly rock faced wallingthat shows facial deterioration. Generally only 15–25mm of the decayed stone is removed toallow realignment to the original profile. This technique is used for decayed stone deeplyembedded within a wall which itself has minimal decay yet is disfigured. Door cases andwindow cills are particular examples on which this technique can be used.See also Section 3 Leadwork (for flashings etc.) – p. 82Section 4 Metalwork (for metal cramps and fixings) – p. 86Section 6 Plasterwork (for external renders) – p. 101Section 11 Remedial Works (for DPCs and other treatments) – p. 126Appendix 1: Further reading – p. 14971