Harber Carpentry and Restoration 

Harber Carpentry and Restoration provides traditional lime plastering services for listed and historic buildings across Suffolk, Norfolk and East Anglia.

​

Lime plaster is a breathable, flexible and historically appropriate material used in traditional construction for centuries. It plays a vital role in the conservation and repair of timber-framed and solid masonry buildings, helping manage moisture and preserve original building fabric.

​

We apply lime plaster using traditional methods suited to historic cottages, period properties and listed buildings.

​

Specialist Lime Plastering for Historic Buildings

Lime plaster behaves very differently from modern gypsum-based plasters. It allows moisture to move naturally through walls, reducing the risk of trapped damp and long-term decay in older buildings.

Our lime plastering services include:

• Internal lime plastering

• External lime rendering

• Lime plaster repairs

• Historic plaster restoration

• Lime pointing and finishing coats

• Breathable wall systems

• Listed building plaster repairs

• Heritage property restoration

Each project is assessed individually to ensure compatibility with the existing building structure.

​

Why Lime Plaster Is Used in Historic Buildings

Lime plaster has been used in traditional construction for hundreds of years because of its breathable and flexible properties.

Unlike modern cement or gypsum-based materials, lime plaster:

• Allows moisture to evaporate naturally

• Moves with the building as it settles

• Reduces trapped damp within walls

• Is compatible with timber frames and soft masonry

• Helps preserve historic fabric

Using inappropriate modern materials can lead to moisture retention and accelerated decay in historic structures.

​

Traditional Lime Plastering Methods

We use traditional lime-based systems appropriate for historic and listed buildings, ensuring compatibility with original materials and construction techniques.

Methods include:

• Hand-applied lime plaster

• Lime putty plastering

• Hydraulic lime systems (where appropriate)

• Multi-coat plaster builds

• Lime render application

• Traditional float and finish coats

• Breathable limewash finishes

Each application is carefully matched to the building’s age, structure and exposure conditions.

​

Lime Plaster Repairs and Restoration

Many historic buildings contain original lime plaster that can often be repaired rather than replaced.

We undertake:

• Patch repairs to damaged plaster

• Consolidation of historic surfaces

• Removal of incompatible cement renders

• Restoration of decorative lime finishes

• Repair of cracked or delaminated plaster

• Stabilisation of loose historic plasterwork

Retaining original plaster where possible helps preserve the historic integrity of the building.

​

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is lime plaster used in old buildings?

Lime plaster is breathable and allows moisture to evaporate naturally, helping protect historic timber and masonry from trapped damp and decay.

​

Can cement be removed from old walls?

Yes. In many cases, cement render can be carefully removed and replaced with lime-based materials to restore breathability.

​

Is lime plaster suitable for listed buildings?

Yes. Lime plaster is often the most appropriate material for listed and historic buildings due to its compatibility with traditional construction methods.

​

How long does lime plaster last?

When correctly applied and maintained, lime plaster can last for many decades and often performs better in historic buildings than modern alternatives.

​

Does lime plaster crack?

Minor hairline cracks can occur as part of natural drying, but lime plaster is generally flexible and moves with the building.