Tiez-Breiz in English
Here is an article issued in n°5 Brit-Mag
magazine which presents our association.
Here is an aid to the restoration of old buidings you can print:
RENDERING AND JOINTS IN OLD STONEWORK
Lime is the only material to be used in old masonry:
- Lime was the main binder used until the end of the 19th century.
It is still the best binder suitable for old masonry whereas cement is
totally to be banned.
- According to the different works to be executed and weather
conditions, the best choice is:
- Either natural lime
"aerienne" adhering in the open air,
- Or natural hydraulic lime which sets with water and the
open air.
Quality of lime = low density, adherence, elasticity, plasticity,
permeability.
Permeability is good for evaporation and hygrometric exghanges inside
walling.
SANDS
Sand represents 80% of the mass of mortar:
- The quality of mortar depends on the voice of sands:
origin, size of granules,
- The use of local sands helps restored building to be
integrated into the landscape.
MORTAR MADE WITH NATURAL LIME
Sand is the basis of mortar whereas the finest parts help its
plasticity and contribute to mechanical resistance.
Lime gives transparency enhancing the colour of sand which is used.
The characteristics of old buildings are due to different, usually
local materials and the professional skill of the craftsman. The
different substances used (shape, size, distribution, the use of local
sands, colour) give a personnal touch on walling. It helps restored
buildings to be integrated into the landscape.
