At AGA Heritage Conservation, we’re proud to be leading important conservation works at Charles Williams Primary School in Caerleon, Wales — a historic school building that has long been part of the local community.
This project focuses on protecting the integrity of the structure by removing damaging materials, reinstating historic fabric, and preparing the building for long-term resilience through traditional conservation methods.
Removing Cement Render and Brick Reinstatement
One of the first phases of work involved carefully removing areas of cement render applied in previous decades. While cement is often used as a quick repair solution, it can trap moisture in historic brickwork, leading to damage, cracking, and decay.
Our skilled conservation team carried out the removal of the cement render and reinstated damaged brickwork using historically sympathetic materials. These steps are essential to allow the building to “breathe” again and to prepare the surfaces for the application of traditional lime plaster.
Repointing with Specially Blended Lime Mortar
Following brick reinstatement, we began repointing the masonry with a specially blended lime mortar. Unlike cement, lime mortar is flexible and breathable, making it the correct conservation choice for heritage structures like Charles Williams School.
This careful repointing work not only improves the appearance of the brickwork but also ensures its long-term durability, preventing further issues while maintaining the historic character of the building.
Preserving Heritage Through Traditional Methods
By removing unsuitable modern materials and replacing them with appropriate conservation techniques, we are ensuring that Charles Williams Primary School remains structurally sound and historically authentic for future generations. This project is an excellent example of how traditional methods — such as lime plastering and lime mortar pointing — continue to play a crucial role in protecting Wales’s architectural heritage.
To learn more about our work or to discuss your own restoration project, contact us at info@agaconservation.co.uk
