St Martin’s Church, Bulmer
Main Contractor | Conservation Masonry | Lime Rendering | Lime Mortars | Heritage Consultancy | Community Engagement
The conservation of the medieval church tower included structural masonry repairs, selective stone replacement, hot-mixed lime mortars, leadwork, timber louvres and stained glass conservation. Working as main contractor, we coordinated the repair programme while applying traditional materials and methods throughout.
The tower roof prior to conservation works.
Cleaning & Preparation
Gentle cleaning, the removal of failed cement pointing and the washing out of joints revealed the condition of the historic masonry, allowing careful reassessment before conservation and repair works commenced.
A very close look at weathered masonry prior to repair.
Cleaning and carefully raking out the historic joints.
Traditional Lime Mortars
Repairs were carried out using hot-mixed quicklime mortars and traditional lime techniques throughout. Compatible materials allow historic masonry to breathe, accommodate movement and weather naturally, providing repairs that work with the historic construction.
Matching the colour and texture of the historic mortar.
Leadwork, Timber & Glazing
Traditional lead linings were renewed, repairs carried out to the leadwork, stained glass and rainwater goods, and new timber louvres installed. These allied trades were coordinated alongside the masonry works as part of a single programme of conservation.
New timber louvres set within repaired masonry.
Community Engagement
The project was undertaken in close collaboration with the PCC, architect and wider community. Following completion of the works, we were delighted to share the conservation process and the discoveries made on site through a public talk for the congregation and local residents.
Completed conservation of the tower (final snagging and tidying to do).
