The Estate Agent’s Guide to Lime Mortar and Curb Appeal 

For landlords and estate agents dealing with period properties, the maintenance and presentation of the exterior are crucial. And neglecting the mortar can secretly chip away at your property value, increase long-term costs and complicate sales. Which is why at K. Blythin, we view professional lime pointing as a vital long-term investment.

So, here’s why proper lime work maximises your heritage property’s market value and curb appeal:

1. An Investment That Boosts Value

Informed buyers and surveyors actively look for signs of quality maintenance on period homes. A property that has had its joints correctly pointed with breathable lime mortar signals that the structure’s health has been prioritised.

Plus, proper lime pointing instantly boosts curb appeal! 

Here, our expert craftsmen meticulously match the existing mortar and use local sands to create a bespoke mix. This ensures a seamless, authentic blend that revitalises the property’s appearance, thus giving it a well-cared-for look that naturally commands a higher price.

2. Avoiding Survey Red Flags

One of the quickest ways to derail a sale is a negative surveyor report. Hard cement repairs on historic brickwork are a major red flag, often indicating underlying damp problems, trapped moisture, and future expensive remedial work. Even if they aren’t the most obvious of sights, surveyors are trained to spot these tell-tale signs of improper repair.

By contrast, an exterior that is correctly pointed demonstrates adherence to preservation standards. This significantly reduces the risk of expensive defects being flagged during the survey process. Therefore, ensuring a smoother transaction and protecting your asking price.

3. Long-Term Savings and Compliance

Using lime mortar over cement prevents moisture trapping and decay, which translates to fewer long-term maintenance headaches for the owner or landlord. 

It’s honestly a durable solution that keeps the building healthy. Furthermore, for properties that are Listed or in a Conservation Area (common across Chester and North Wales), correct lime pointing ensures compliance with local authority requirements. Ultimately, making the properties easier to market and sell/let without future compliance issues.

If you’re uncertain if the property you have has been correctly pointed, get in touch with our experts at K. Blythin Brick & Stonework Ltd.

Who is K. Blythin?

K. Blythin Brick & Stonework Ltd is an experienced, family-run business from Chester with over 60 years of combined experience in the brick and stone-working trade. 

We handle all manner of brickwork and stonework from lime mortar pointing & brick laying to paving & drystone walls. Rest assured, we’re qualified in heritage practices, so this means we can assist with restoration and improvements to listed properties and buildings of historical importance. So give us a call and let an expert guarantee the longevity of your historic structure.