Welcome to PHBR

We are specialists in building restoration and preservation

We are specialists in the conservation and repair of old buildings using traditional methods and lime mortars. Located in Powys we are ideally situated to serve clients in Mid-Wales, Shropshire and the Borders.

Our services include:

• Repairing and rebuilding stonework
• Lime pointing and mortar repairs
• Plasterwork consolidation and repair

Please browse the rest of our site for more information on the work we do, including some examples of projects we have undertaken. If you would like any more information, or to discuss a specific project, please give us a call or click on the link above to send us a message and we will get back to you.

Our Services

We use traditional methods and materials wherever possible. This usually involves one or more of these techniques.

Stonemasonry

We specialise in repairing and rebuilding stonework using the same techniques the original stonemasons would have used. This ensures our work remains sympathetic to the rest of the building.

Lime mortars

The majority of historic buildings were constructed before modern cements had been invented and are unsuited to such materials. Instead, they used traditional lime based mortars, so we do likewise. They are suitable for construction, repair and the re-pointing of walls.​

Lime plastering

The properties of modern gypsum based plasters and plasterboards are a world away from the lime based plasters and traditional laths used on many old buildings. Using the original methods ensures a sympathetic repair or restoration.

The use of these techniques and materials makes sense because:

  • For centuries buildings have been constructed with these tried and tested methods and materials. They have stood the test of time.
  • Traditional methods will help retain the look and character of your historic building.
  • Many of the problems that occur in old or historic buildings are caused by the inappropriate introduction of modern materials. For example, rendering a facade with cement will trap water within the masonry and cause damp, where as repairing with lime-based mortars will allow the building to breathe.
  • Old buildings shift slightly with time and varying weather conditions. Lime-based mortars are more flexible than cement-based mortars and allow for this movement.