Specialised Masonry P/l - Remedial & Conservation

Conservation - Berry School Of Arts

Remedial - Bowral Residence

Conservation - Christ Church Bong Bong

Conservation - Old Station Masters House Picton

Traditional Lime Mortar Repointing To Lower Section Of Bay Windows

Existing Cement Repair Damage

Concealed Structural Reinforcement Of Cracked Brickwork

Removal Of Salts From Sandstone Base

Heritage/Historic Masonry Conservation

Masonry failure in old and historic buildings can sometimes be complex to resolve due to the varying characteristics and properties of historic masonry fabric. In certain cases, concealed structural reinforcement can be a suitable solution to help restore structural integrity of failed historic masonry, however careful consideration should always be given to any introduction of modern repair techniques and materials, especially the use of non-traditional mortars including cement. Whether works are in relation to repairs, conservation or restoration, the preservation of the masonry fabric should be paramount. To ensure the most appropriate solutions are determined for the building, expert advice can be gained through a heritage architect, conservation consultant, experienced heritage contractor and if required, supported by a suitably experienced structural engineer. Overall, it is important to seek professional direction and specialist expert workmanship. Conservation works should always be approached with a preservation mentality, assuring the best outcome for the building.

Specialised Masonry Pty Ltd only practice traditional work method skills.

Traditional Lime Mortar Joints

Arguably one of the most important elements of historic masonry fabric is the lime mortar joints in which the masonry units are bedded. Generally, traditional lime mortar joints are the sacrificial component of the entire masonry fabric (not excluding traditional lime render/plaster, limewash if applicable), therefore repointing can be a necessary maintenance requirement for the preservation and appearance of historic masonry fabric. A suitable replacement mortar should always be based on a careful evaluation of the masonry fabric as a whole, ensuring the required performance and aesthetic characteristics for the new mortar are met, including properties to coexist with the original historic mortar. Just as important, is joint preparation, repointing technique and also determining the extent of repointing works actually required. Poor work method skills, incompatible materials and/or shortcuts, will all compromise the original character and integrity of an historic building, possibly leading to irreversible long term problems.

The curing and protection of newly repointed traditional lime mortar joints is often overlooked, however this procedure is very important for initiating the hydration and/or carbonation process which in turn contributes to the overall performance and longevity of the replacement mortar.

Modern Masonry Remediation

Masonry/brick failure is not uncommon in buildings, especially those constructed prior to the revised AS2870 residential slabs and footing standards and/or built without specified control joint articulation, however relatively new buildings can also be affected. Other causes of masonry failure can include foundation movement, tree roots and soil pressures, thermal movement of the masonry fabric, masonry growth/shrinkage due to moisture uptake/loss, poor building design, incompatible materials and poor work methods/skills. The correct remedial strategy is best determined by a structural engineer and where appropriate, the root cause(s) of the masonry failure would be addressed and not just the resultant damages. An engineer can also provide a job specific program including progressive monitoring of the works, and if applicable, certification on completion. Specialised Masonry P/l work in conjunction with engineers' to provide expert remedial, structural and consulting services. Overall, structural integrity, future building performance as well as aesthetic requirements, should all be considered and not compromised due to incorrect advice and/or poor work method skills.

Retrofit Vertical Control Joint Articulation

Masonry wall articulation can be an integral part of a modern buildings' overall performance. As part of a planned remedial work scope solution, a structural engineer may specify to retrofit vertical control joint articulation into an existing masonry building including lintel articulation if required. To ensure new control joints are correctly placed and fully functional, placement should be determined by an appointed engineer and the structural works be expertly carried out in accordance with Standards Australia AS3700, AS4773 and TN61 guidelines.

Concealed Structural Reinforcement

It's important that quality engineered stainless steel reinforcement products are used to support the concealed repair of failed masonry and/or failed ancillary components including crack stitching, bowed walls, remedial wall ties and masonry beams. Works should always be carried out by an experienced remedial and licensed contractor to help avoid potential costly related repairs in the future.