Talking Conservation

Which Lime to Use? Part 3 – Floors, Chimneys & High-Exposure Areas


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Not sure which lime to use for a chimney, solid floor, or coping stone? In this episode of Talking Conservation, we explain how to choose and apply the right lime mix for floor construction and high-exposure areas in older homes.

In this episode, Rich and Stephen continue their deep dive into lime mortars, exploring how to apply them in real-world contexts where performance under pressure really matters.

We cover the use of limecrete floors and lime ash floors, debunking common myths about moisture performance and clarifying where lime-based solid floors offer real benefits (and where they don’t).

We also examine high-exposure areas such as chimneys, ridge tiles, parapets, and copings β€” where material choice is critical. Should you use NHL 3.5? NHL 5? Is cement ever appropriate? We walk through the options and trade-offs.

Whether you're repairing flaunchings or considering a breathable solid floor alternative, this episode gives you practical advice grounded in conservation principles.

πŸ‘‰ Missed the earlier episodes? Start here:β€’ Ep.1: The Lime Cycle Explained – Where lime comes from, how it’s made, and how it changes chemically from limestone to lime and back again.β€’ Ep.2: Lime Mortar Types Explained – Air lime, NHL, hot lime, and pozzolans demystified β€” we explain their properties and behaviour.β€’ Ep.3: Which Lime to Use? Part 1 – Mortars for Building & Pointing Older Buildings – Where and how to use the different lime types for masonry and repointing.

β€’ Ep.4: Which Lime to Use? Part 2 – Plasters & Renders - Which types of plasters to use internally and pros and cons of the various options for external renders.

πŸ‘‰ Subscribe to our channel for future episodes on conservation, traditional buildings, and expert insight.πŸ‘‰ Need personalised advice? Book a consultation at www.expertible.comπŸ‘‰ Professionals can also book mentoring or training via Stephen’s site: www.beconservation.com


#BuildingConservation #TraditionalMaterials #LimeMortar #HistoricBuildings #Retrofitting #HeritageSkills #TalkingConservation #Architects #Surveyors #Builders #ConservationProfessionals



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Talking ConservationBy Stephen Boniface and Rich Alesbury