Request a site visit or speak to a heritage specialist – call 07815 530153
HERITAGE BUILDING SPECIALISTS SERVING BIDEFORD AND THE SURROUNDING NORTH DEVON VILLAGES
If you’re looking for experienced heritage builders in Bideford, Set in Stone Traditional Build offers expert advice, quality workmanship and a commitment to delivering projects with care, precision and respect for traditional construction methods.
We work on period properties, listed buildings, stone cottages, cob homes, farmhouses and rural estates, delivering traditional craftsmanship that respects the character and integrity of older buildings.
From lime plastering and stone masonry to heritage restoration, barn conversions and landscaping, our experienced team combines time-honoured building methods with practical solutions designed to protect and enhance traditional properties.
WHY CHOOSE US?
- Traditional skills, modern standards
- Specialist lime, stone and cob knowledge
- Respect for historic buildings
- Local North Devon-based craftsmen
- Honest advice and practical solutions
- Experience working with architects and conservation officers
TRADITIONAL BUILDING SERVICES TAILORED TO YOUR BIDEFORD PROPERTY
Specialist solutions . Expert repair & restoration
Bideford is home to a diverse range of historic properties, from Georgian townhouses and traditional stone cottages to rural farmhouses and cob buildings. These properties require the skills of experienced heritage builders in Bideford.
We provide specialist care, breathable materials and an understanding of traditional construction methods to ensure they remain structurally sound for future generations.
We work on ….
Georgian townhouses and period town properties
Victorian homes and terraces
Traditional stone cottages
Cob cottages and rural dwellings
Farmhouses and agricultural buildings
Listed buildings and conservation properties
Barn conversions and rural estates
Heritage commercial buildings
Whether you require lime plaster repairs, stone wall restoration, cob conservation, a sympathetic barn conversion or a complete heritage restoration project, we provide tailored solutions that respect the original character of your property while delivering long-lasting results.
LOCAL HERITAGE BUILDING EXPERTS IN BIDEFORD
As a locally based company, we understand the materials, architectural styles and conservation requirements commonly found throughout Bideford and the surrounding villages. Our commitment to traditional craftsmanship, quality workmanship and honest advice has made us a trusted choice for homeowners, landowners and property professionals across the region.
As well as Bideford, we also serve surrounding rural North Devon villages of Northam, Appledore , Westward Ho!, Instow, Abbotsham, Buckland Brewer, Parkham, Woolsery, and Hartland.
HERITAGE BUILDING & TRADITIONAL PROPERTIES IN BIDEFORD
Older buildings require a different approach to modern construction. Many traditional properties were built using natural materials such as lime mortar, stone, cob and timber, all designed to work together to manage moisture and movement naturally. Using inappropriate modern materials, such as cement-based mortars and renders, can often lead to damp issues, cracking, and accelerated deterioration.
Our conservation-led approach focuses on preserving original features wherever possible, using breathable lime-based materials, traditional construction methods, and sympathetic repair techniques that respect the historic fabric of the building. Whether carrying out lime plaster repairs, stone masonry restoration, cob conservation or structural improvements, our goal is always to protect the property’s character while ensuring it remains functional and sustainable for modern living.
As experienced heritage builders in Bideford, we understand the responsibilities that come with working on listed buildings and properties within conservation areas, providing practical advice and skilled craftsmanship tailored to the unique requirements of each project.
TRUSTED FOR HERITAGE & TRADITIONAL BUILDING WORK
General Building & Traditional Masonry
Andy has a vast amount of knowledge and experience within the building industry and is very passionate about his trade, highly recommended for any size of job at very reasonable rates.
Shaun Herbert
Stone Wall Re-Building & Masonry Repairs
Andy and the team are fantastic, they did an excellent job rebuilding our wall and would highly recommend them.
Claire Brinsmead
Cob Repairs & Lime Restoration
Andy has expert knowledge on cob & lime render. Upon discovery of the corner of our house walls coming away from each other, he worked hard and fast to rectify the situation. I have already booked him to re-render the rest of the house and have recommended him to friends and neighbours.
James Rackliff
Cob Wall Restoration & Chimney Re-Building
Set in Stone undertook repairs to my cottage after a cob wall collapsed. This entailed enlarging and rebuilding the chimney from the ground up, replicating two slate capped shoulders, rebuilding a brick chimney stack and replacing sand and cement render on the entire front cottage wall with limestone render. Andy is a perfectionist. He and his team worked very hard in all weathers and I am delighted with the way my cottage looks now.
Maura Ashworth
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do you work on listed buildings in Bideford?
Yes. We regularly work on listed buildings and properties within conservation areas across Bideford and North Devon. Our approach is always sympathetic and conservation-led, using traditional materials and methods such as lime mortar, lime plastering and careful like-for-like repairs to protect the original fabric of the building.
Can lime plaster be applied over existing walls?
In many cases, yes – but it depends on the condition and type of existing surface. Lime plaster can often be applied over suitable traditional substrates, but modern cement-based plasters or damaged finishes may need to be carefully removed first. We always assess the property before recommending the most appropriate and breathable solution.
What is the difference between lime mortar and cement mortar?
Lime mortar is a traditional, breathable material that allows moisture to move naturally through the walls of older buildings. Cement mortar is far harder and less permeable, which can trap moisture and cause long-term damage such as cracking, damp and stone deterioration. For heritage and period properties, lime mortar is almost always the more appropriate and protective choice.
Do you carry out cob repairs?
Yes. We specialise in cob repairs and conservation across Bideford and the surrounding North Devon area. Cob is a traditional material that requires specialist knowledge to repair correctly. We use breathable, compatible materials and traditional techniques to stabilise, restore and protect cob buildings while maintaining their original character.
Do you offer landscaping?
Yes. We provide traditional landscaping and groundwork services, including stone walls, patios, pathways, garden features and site preparation works. Our landscaping is often designed to complement period properties, barn conversions and rural homes, using natural materials and traditional craftsmanship to create durable, sympathetic outdoor spaces.
Latest projects, tips and traditional building advice
