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What Does A Stone Mason Do?

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Stone masonry is a historic profession, and one that for many evokes images of medieval men chiselling away at rocks to form little bricks hundreds of years ago. With the evolution of modern manufacturing methods and availability of products such as concrete and brick, you might imagine that stone masons are few and far between in the industry nowadays. However this traditional craft is actually as important as ever for building and construction, and has a range of roles from stone fitting to graffiti removal and stone cleaning.

Stone Masons for New Build

Just because many houses are built from bricks these days, doesn’t mean that stone masons are any less popular for the construction of homes. A bespoke option that offers superior quality to any property development, stone masons use a combination of modern and traditional building methods to create impressive residential and commercial properties. This could be using natural stone, or newer materials and methods such as glass reinforced concrete, which can be manufactured to mimic any stone and shaped with a seamless finish.

For a more affordable alternative to using natural stone for the entire property, stone cladding is becoming an increasingly well-known way to increase the kerb appeal of a home or building. Stonemasons can fit quality natural stone cladding to a property, creating a façade that boasts timeless appeal. As a result, cladding can significantly increase the value of a building, without costing the earth.

Restoration and Renovation

Stone masons also have an important role in maintaining period properties and stately homes that are in need of improvement, whether this be minor repairs or drastic renovation. By choosing an experienced stonemason, renovations, extensions and restoration can be done with seamless results that will be in-keeping with the original period of the property. From porticos to panelling and cornices, a specialist stonemason can really improve the value of these buildings and give them a new lease of life, whether your property is an old farmhouse or a Georgian townhouse.

Stone Cleaning and Graffiti Removal

Some stonework has been exposed to the elements for hundreds of years, and over time this can leave it stained, dull and lifeless. Stone cleaning is a professional service that removes dirt and restores natural stone to its original appearance, making a huge difference to the aesthetic value of a property. However vandalism also poses a problem to many homeowners and business owners, especially in urban areas. That’s why many stone masons also offer graffiti removal services, to remove street art and restore stonework to its former appearance.

From new builds to period properties, and a huge variety of commercial needs, stone masonry offers a professional range of services that makes it a relevant and reliable choice for property developments, home improvements, and restoration. Preserving the timeless quality of stonework for the modern age, stonemasons offer a premium finish for any building project that makes their craft a valuable one.

Now did you know all that?

Article written by Kelly Gimour-Grassam, a freelance copywriter from Yorkshire who loves the great outdoors and eating out. This article is written with useful information from Henley Stone. You can follow Kelly on Twitter @KellyGGrassam.

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5 Tips For Restoring Old Properties

5 Tips For Restoring Old Properties

Property restoration can be an exciting project and a profitable investment. With so many derelict or devalued properties throughout the UK, as well as the ever-improving property market, it’s never been a better time to seek out a restoration project. Whilst many people have gained experience and skills in renovating buildings, it’s essential to understand the unique features, qualities and problems that make period properties a slightly different ball game. So here are 5 top tips to ensure that you don’t take on more than you can handle, and that your project is a successful one.

1. Respect the Roots

When renovating an old property you must stay true to the period of the building and its individual characteristics. Try to do a little research on the background and dating of the property, so that you can strive to restore it to its former glory and make decisions that are in-keeping with the building.

2. Listed? Tread Carefully

If the property in question is a listed one, tread very carefully before committing to buy. Some buildings are sold with planning permission, but this isn’t a blanket approval for any construction or renovation works – often such consent is very specific to certain improvements and changes. It can be difficult to obtain planning permission for a listed building, making it a risky investment.

3. Seek Expert Advice

Services such as stone renovation, electrics and plumbing can often be far more complicated where period properties are concerned, because often the building structure is a law unto itself. Many of these jobs won’t be straightforward, so be prepared to ask for a professional quote before you commit to buy. This can in fact be much more useful than a survey for such unique properties.

4. Be Realistic With Your Budget

It’s essential to be aware that renovation projects on period properties can quickly spiral above the estimated budget. Whilst this isn’t always the case, beware of jumping in too deep if it looks like you’ll be on a tight budget to begin with. Try to choose a project where you will have room to manoeuvre if any obstacles do arise, rather than facing compromises or cuts later down the line.

5. Enlist Professionals

Getting the help of experts in the field is not only important for pricing things up. You might consider yourself a bit of a plumber or a competent mason, but the complex layout of period properties means that it is easy to make a mistake that can affect the stability and structure of the whole building. If in doubt, hire a specialist who can ensure the work is done safely and to a high standard, using materials that are in-keeping with the property.

Renovating a period building can be rewarding and highly profitable. But make sure that you make the commitment fully aware of the nature of the project, the cost, and any possible complications. By doing so, you can avoid any risks or nasty surprises, and ensure that your project is a resounding success.

Article written by Kelly Gilmour-Grassam who you can follow at @KellyGGrassam on Twitter. She wrote this article with information from Henley Stone and enjoying the culinary delights of gods own county.

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