Cliveden Conservation in partnership with the Stone Federation, is delivering a Hot Mixed Lime Training Day, 14 May 2024 at Reading Abbey Ruins, Abbey St, Reading RG1 3BA.

This is a unique opportunity to learn more about using hot mixed lime mortar and practise your skills at the historic Reading Abbey ruins.

Attendees are welcome to bring their own small tools, trowels. Basic tools and materials, including H&S equipment will be provided.

10.00 – 11.30am (Reading Abbey Gate) Classroom presentation: An introduction to using traditional lime mortar on historic buildings.
The benefits of lime
The importance of appropriate specification
The Lime cycle and the chemistry of lime
Hydraulic Limes, Pure limes and their uses
Binders, aggregates, pozzolans
Methodology – H&S, mixing, application and tending

11.30 – 12.00 Walk through Reading Abbey Ruins to Reredorter: Brief summary of application of lime mortars

12.00 – 13.00 (Abbey Reredorter) Practical Session 1:
H&S toolbox talk
Mixing demonstration of different binders
In pairs – mixing two mortars using NHL and quicklime
13.00 – 14.00 (Reading Abbey Gate) Lunch

14.00 – 16.00 (Abbey Reredorter) Practical Session 2:
Appreciation of different binders and mixes
Application of mortar to the Abbey Ruins Walls
Techniques for pointing and consolidation
Techniques for tending
16.00: Finish