Why use Hydraulic Lime Mortar?
Hydraulic lime mortar is a traditional building material with an interesting historical background.
It is widely used in building conservation because many old buildings were originally built with this mortar.
It is best conservation practice to use the original or most compatible building materials.
However, hydraulic lime mortar is not just a building conservation material.
It is an excellent all-round performer with a place in general modern construction.
Hydraulic lime mortar shares the practical benefits of modern cement based mortars but has none of the disadvantages.
Fast Setting
Hydraulic lime mortar is fast setting so it can be used on-site just as efficiently as modern mortars.
No Shrinkage
Shrinkage cracks are virtually eliminated due to the mortar's hydraulic setting characteristics.
Breathable
It lets walls breathe by absorbing and evaporating moisture from surrounding masonry.
This also helps protect the masonry because less moisture means less risk of salt and frost damage.
Elasticity
It has a low modulus of elasticity.
This means it is extremely flexible and allows for movement and thermal expansion.
Adaptable
The mix can be engineered to suit different types of masonry and degrees of weather exposure.
Hydraulic lime mortar can set underwater, therefore an excellent mortar for masonry in extreme conditions.
See types of hydraulic lime mortar to learn more about different mixes, grades and strengths.
Workable
Mixed correctly, hydraulic lime mortar is a beautiful material to use.
With the correct technique even a novice's repointing can look clean and tidy, totally professional.
Sympathetic
It is softer than modern cement, stones and bricks are reclaimed more easily if buildings are dismantled.
Environmental
It is more eco-friendly, the manufacture of hydraulic lime produces less carbon dioxide than ordinary limes.
Furthermore, it re-absorbs carbon dioxide thus lowering its carbon footprint even further.
Appearance
It has an attractive traditional gritty texture, pale in colour.
Just like lime putty mortar in appearance, in fact, they are practically indistinguishable.
Buy Hydraulic Lime Mortar Online
The only possible disadvantage that we have found with hydraulic lime mortar is that it is sometimes difficult to source.
Well now it is totally accessible, you can buy hydraulic lime mortar online in NHL 2, NHL 3.5 and NHL 5 grades and also in large or small quantities.
With these three versatile NHL grades you can find a mortar suitable for all types of masonry and building situations.
Are you are buying hydraulic lime mortar for the first time?
On our site you can find practical tips and advice on types of hydraulic lime mortar and estimating mortar quantity.
Essential reading to help you choose the best materials for your building project.
You can also check our article explaining the difference between hydraulic lime, hydrated lime and cement mortars for more detailed information and a bit of history.
If you have any questions that we don't answer on this site then please make an enquiry, we'll be glad to help.