Chimney stack repair work underway at historic Cragside in Northumberland
A building firm has given an insight into its restoration work at historic Cragside House in Northumberland.
Classic Masonry is carrying out specialist conservation works at the National Trust’s Grade I listed property near Rothbury.
It was appointed by principal contractor, Datim Building Contractors, to repair its multiple chimney stacks.
Before work began, the project team completed a series of trial panels to develop and secure approval for specialist natural hydraulic lime mortar mixes using carefully selected sands and mortar ratios, ensuring repairs remain sympathetic to the original Victorian masonry and meet the National Trust’s exacting conservation standards.
Mike Moody, managing director, Classic Masonry, said: “Cragside is one of Britain’s most significant Victorian country houses and projects of this nature demand the very highest standards of heritage craftsmanship.
“Every aspect of the work has been carefully planned, from the development of bespoke lime mortar mixes through to the delivery of the conservation works alongside the wider roofing programme.
“Traditional materials and techniques are essential to ensuring the building’s historic character is preserved while providing durable repairs for the future.
“Our team has extensive experience of working on nationally important heritage assets, and we’re pleased to be working alongside Datim Building Contractors and the National Trust on a project that will help safeguard this remarkable building for generations to come.”
Cragside famously became the first house in the world powered by water, using lakes on the estate to generate electricity through a 17m (56ft) turbine - called The Archimedes screw.
As well as urgent repairs to protect the property from this year's autumn and winter weather, intensive restoration work will continue until 2028.