WHY TRADITIONAL BUILDING MATERIALS MATTER FOR OLDER PROPERTIES IN NORTH DEVON

Understanding Lime, Stone and Cob Construction

Across North Devon and the Cornwall border, many period properties were built using natural materials such as lime mortar, lime plaster, stone and cob. These traditional materials have stood the test of time for centuries, helping historic buildings manage moisture, movement and changing weather conditions naturally.

However, many older properties have undergone repairs using modern materials that were never designed to work with traditional construction methods. While these repairs may appear effective initially, they can often lead to damp problems, cracking, trapped moisture and accelerated deterioration.

The importance of breathable building materials

Traditional buildings were designed to breathe. Lime mortars and lime plasters allow moisture to evaporate naturally through walls, helping to regulate humidity and protect the structure.

Modern cement-based materials are much harder and less permeable. When used on older buildings, they can trap moisture within the wall, causing damage to stone, brick and cob over time.

Understanding traditional construction methods

Many historic properties throughout North Devon are built using a combination of:

• Cob construction
• Natural stone walls
• Lime mortar pointing
• Lime plaster finishes
• Traditional timber structures

Each of these materials behaves differently to modern construction products and requires specialist knowledge when carrying out repairs or restoration work.

Common problems we encounter

At Set in Stone Traditional Build, we regularly see issues caused by inappropriate repairs, including:

• Cracked cement render on cob walls
• Failing mortar joints on stone buildings
• Damp and moisture retention
• Internal plaster deterioration
• Structural movement caused by trapped moisture

Identifying these issues early can help prevent more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

Taking a conservation-led approach

Whether repairing a cob cottage, restoring a stone farmhouse or carrying out lime plastering on a listed property, our approach is always to use materials and techniques that work in harmony with the building.

By understanding how traditional buildings were originally constructed, we can help preserve their character, improve their performance and ensure they remain part of the North Devon landscape for generations to come.

Need advice on your property?

If you own a period property in North Devon or the Cornwall border and would like advice on lime plastering, stone masonry, cob repairs or heritage restoration, our team would be happy to help.

Please call Andy on 07815 530153 or visit our website for further information on the services we offer www.setinstonetraditionalbuild.co.uk