How long does planning permission take in Northumberland?
A practical guide to how long planning permission usually takes in Northumberland, what can cause delays and simple steps…
Most traditional Northumberland buildings were built with lime mortar. Lime is softer and more porous than the stone, so moisture leaves the wall through the joints and any movement is taken up by the mortar rather than cracking the stone. Over the last century many of these walls were repointed with hard cement mortar, which traps moisture behind it and forces water out through the stone instead – leading to damp inside and stone faces that crumble and spall.
How we repoint in lime
- Assess the wall: stone type, existing mortar, the joint width and any areas of loose or failed masonry.
- Rake out failed and cement mortar by hand to a sensible depth, taking care not to damage stone arrises.
- Mix a lime mortar suited to the exposure – natural hydraulic lime for exposed walls, or non-hydraulic lime putty where it suits – with sand chosen to match the original colour and texture.
- Point and finish the joints to suit the wall, often slightly recessed or brushed back rather than smeared over the stone.
- Protect the work. Lime cures slowly and must be shielded from frost, strong sun and driving rain.
When is the best time?
Lime work is best done from spring to early autumn, avoiding frost. In winter we can sometimes work under protective sheeting, but we will be honest if the weather is wrong.
