The UK’s historic stone-cobbled streets, especially York’s Shambles, Rye’s Mermaid Street, Shaftesbury’s Gold Hill, Norwich’s Elm Hill, and London’s Covent Garden, are sources of immense pride for everyone in the nation. Hence, it is not shocking to see homeowners install stonework in their properties. However, stonework needs regular maintenance. However, maintenance cannot be carried out at any time of year. Professional stonemasons recommend spring as the best time to maintain stonework.
Why is Stonework Maintenance Typically Performed in the Spring?
There are many reasons why stonework maintenance is reserved only for the spring season. The logic behind this sentiment is discussed in the sections below.
This is the Time When the Freeze-Thaw Cycle Reverses
Stone is porous, and when the water in these pores freezes during the winter, the expansion adds stress to the stone’s pores. The result – hairline cracks – which are only visible to even the trained eyes of professional stonemasons in the springtime. What happens if these hairline cracks are left untreated? In the summer, the stonework will become destabilised.
Mortar Cures Properly During the Spring
Stonework mortar is lime-based, and lime cures only when the temperature rises, especially in the springtime. The winter is too wet for lime mortar as the excess moisture can destabilise the bond before it ‘settles’. Excess summer heat can quickly absorb moisture from newly applied mortar. That will lead to quick shrinkage and subsequent cracking. Consulting expert stonemasons in Bath as spring approaches is the best decision you can take. That will ensure your property’s stonework lasts for many more years.
Spring Lets One Manage Algae and Moss Growth
As spring approaches, your garden also ‘springs’ back to life. However, this is also the peak time for algae, moss, and lichen to cover the stonework in your property. Leave this unwarranted growth in the stonework of your property unhindered, and it will take over completely. How will that harm the stonework, you ask? Well, the root systems of algae, lichen and moss retain moisture. The added moisture will increase the water content of the stonework’s porous surfaces and reduce the ‘fitness’ of the mortar. The outcome is that, in the next winter thaw cycle, you would have to fix up the stonework, yet again. Turning the process into a viciously expensive cycle.
Best Time to Reassess the Rainwater Drainage System
It is apparent by now that stonework and excess moisture do not gel well. Hence, property owners with stonework installed in their gardens should call stonemasons in Bath as soon as spring arrives. In this way, the overall condition of the rainwater drainage system installed in your stonework-laden garden can be assessed and repaired promptly. The outcome: even during torrential rain, the drainage system will direct water away from the masonry, keeping it safe from rainwater-induced damage.
Also read: Transform Your New Build with Expert Stone Masonry
Prolong the Life of Your Property With Preventive Care
Stone conservation relies heavily on springtime maintenance. This is the time when your preferred stonemasons can come in to identify chipped surfaces, failing points and blocked drainage. All are crucial to preserving the stonework on your property and helping you retain your home’s overall appeal. Call professional stonemasons today for a professional assessment of your property’s stonework.