Hot Mixed Lime and Traditional Mortars

A Practical Guide to Their Use in Conservation and Repair

Nigel Copsey

Traditional mortars are eminently workable, effectively porous, economic in use and appropriately durable. Used in buildings for thousands of years, these materials are ideal for repair and conservation work. Unlike cement or modern hydraulic lime, their routine use would make a significant contribution in the struggle against climate change. However, despite the 1975 ‘lime revival’ there remains a deficit in research into the most-used traditional mortars. This book seeks to redress the balance.
Thoroughly revised and updated in 2026, this comprehensive book will be of particular interest to builders, conservators, architects and all who are interested in gaining a true understanding of hot mixing for the twenty-first century.

ISBN: 9780719847356

Width: 189mm

Height: 246mm

Pages: 176

Published: November 26, 2026

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781785005565

Published: May 31, 2019

Format: Ebook

ISBN: 9781785005558

Width: 189mm

Height: 246mm

Pages: 176

Published: February 22, 2019

Format: Paperback

Nigel Copsey began his career as a dry-stone waller, before training as a stonemason and carver. He has since worked in the conservation industry across the UK, the USA and Andalusia, specializing as a consultant and practitioner on major repair projects for historic buildings. An accredited conservator-restorer, he is a leading advocate for the routine use of hot mixed lime and traditional earth-lime mortars, working with Historic England, Historic Environment Scotland and international partners in the delivery of training and education. Nigel is a Research Associate of the Department of Archaeology, University of York.