At Ayres Plastering, we take immense pride in the craftsmanship and dedication we bring to every project. Recently, we had the honor of working on a stunning Grade 1 listed manor in Staffordshire, originally built in the 1700s. This historical gem required the utmost care and precision, particularly when plastering both the original structure and its 1950s extension. Here's a glimpse into the meticulous process and exceptional results we achieved.
Restoring Historical Beauty with Lime Plaster
The Project Scope
Our task involved lime plastering over woodwool boards in the extension and patching areas of the original plasterwork. We used a hemp lime mixture followed by a superfine top coat for the extension and a sand and lime mix with horsehair for the original structure. The goal was to blend seamlessly with the existing plaster while maintaining the historical integrity of the manor.
Materials and Techniques
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Hemp Lime Over Woodwool Boards
- Base Coat: We applied the hemp lime mixture over woodwool boards. This provided a breathable and durable surface suitable for the historical environment.
- Superfine Top Coat: After the base had set, we applied a superfine lime top coat. This not only added an extra layer of durability but also provided a smooth and aesthetically pleasing finish.
- Square Arris Formation: The square arris (sharp edges) were carefully formed using a trowel and straight edge, ensuring precision and clean lines.
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Sand and Lime with Horsehair
- Patch Repair: For the original plasterwork, we used a traditional mix of sand and lime with horsehair. This blend was meticulously matched to the existing plaster to ensure consistency.
- Handcrafted Square Arris: The arris was shaped using a handmade timber rule, showcasing our commitment to traditional techniques and craftsmanship.
Achieving Exceptional Tolerances
One of the critical aspects of this project was adhering to a strict tolerance of a 3mm gap. By ruling the top coat onto an already flat background, we exceeded this requirement, achieving a remarkable tolerance of around 1mm or less for the most part. This level of precision is a testament to our team's skill and attention to detail.
Tools of the Trade
Every aspect of this project was completed using traditional tools, reflecting the historical essence of the manor:
- Handboard
- Trowel
- Float
- Devil Float
- Straight Edge
- Square
- Spirit Level
These tools, combined with our expertise, allowed us to deliver a result that not only met but surpassed expectations.
Conclusion
Working on such a prestigious property was both a privilege and a challenge that Ayres Plastering embraced with enthusiasm and dedication. The successful blending of modern techniques with historical materials and methods highlights our commitment to excellence in plastering. Whether it's a Grade 1 listed manor or a modern extension, our focus remains on delivering impeccable results that stand the test of time.
View the project on https://www.instagram.com/p/C9mWAmds86j/ https://www.instagram.com/p/C9YASTxu-Tj/
