Category: Blog

Stone cleaning services encompaces a variety of techniques from physical methods like brushing and rubbing to chemical treatments and specialized cleaning systems. At Kavo Masons we use such methods as:

Steam cleaning, Pressure washing, Soda Blasting, Use of Poultices or Gels. Steam cleaning uses high temperature steam to lift dirt and stains. Gentle yet powerful. Often preferred dcfor delicate stone and historic buildings.

Soda Blasting: Uses a soft abrasive like baking soda to clean stone outer layer. Poultices and Gels are applied to the stone surface to draw out stains and contaminants. Vortex Cleaning uses a swirling motion to remove surface coatings. Laser Cleaning uses a newer technology that uses laser energy to remove contaminants.

Lime Mortar Pointing is a traditional type of mortar made using lime and sand. Due to it’s properties of being more flexible and breathable when used in stone work it can the help to preserve the integrity and longevity of the stones as well as providing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option.

When replacing lime mortar we always ensure that new joints have been raked out properly to allow the new mortar enough space to bond and set. Once cleaned the open joints should then be soaked with water giving the new mortar the best conditions to set.

The stonework is the covered with a material called Hessian once lime mortar has been applied. The Hessian which is a natural material creates the ideal environment for curing while also protecting the new mortar from adverse weather conditions. When partially set the new mortar is ready to be brushed back revealing the aggregate within the mortar and create a water tight and breathabke structure.

Stone repairs can be an alternative to carrying out a stone replacement. This depends on the extent of damage or decay to the stone. Using a lime based material Lithomex this can be applied over the affected stone giving it the appearance an the structure of a brand new stone.

Prior to applying Lithomex loose and decaying stonework is chiseled back to a solid surface creating a perfect base for the lithomex to bond to. Once applied and partially set(which usually takes around 24 hours) the stone is rubbed back and the Lithomex is shaped to recreate the original surface. Dressing of the stone at this stage on the surface first to match the surrounding stonework. Kavo Masons can guarantee all Lithomex surface repairs carried out can last 10 years plus.