Our Limestone Wall Project
We dive into the heart of our renovation adventures in an Italian village! Today, we’re excited to share the story of one of our first and most enlightening projects—the restoration of a historic limestone wall that leads to our property’s garage, cellar, and barn.
The Significance of Limestone
When we first encountered the front wall of our new home, it was covered in a layer of cement plaster. This might not seem unusual at first glance, but as we delved deeper into the history and properties of building materials, we discovered fascinating insights. Traditionally, exposing limestone walls was not just a matter of aesthetics but also an indicator of social status. Back in the day, covering up limestone with plaster was considered a sign of wealth, as it implied the means to beautify and protect one’s property. Those who couldn’t afford to cover up the stone often left their walls in their natural, rugged state.
Unveiling the Stone
However, our research revealed that limestone walls need to “breathe.” The moisture that naturally accumulates in limestone can become trapped by impermeable materials like cement, leading to potential damage over time. With this knowledge, we decided to strip away the old cement plaster, not only to restore the wall to its original aesthetic but also to preserve its integrity.
The process was laborious. Removing the cement without damaging the underlying stone required patience and gentle hands. As we chipped away at decades of cover-up, the true character of the limestone began to emerge, each stone telling a story of times when simplicity was the norm, and the beauty of natural materials was appreciated in its raw form.
Repointing the Past
Once the stones were fully exposed, the next step was to repoint them—carefully reapplying a suitable lime-based mortar between the stones. This task was not just about aesthetics but about allowing the limestone to continue its age-old task of regulating moisture naturally. Repointing helped secure the stones while ensuring that the wall would remain breathable and more durable against the elements.
Turning Back Time
In a way, by removing the cement and restoring the limestone, we were turning the walls “back to peasant status”—a phrase that captures the essence of returning to simplicity and authenticity. It was a project that connected us more deeply to the history of our home and the timeless techniques of traditional building practices.
The Beauty of Breathability
Today, the wall stands not just as a functional boundary for our property but as a testament to the beauty and practicality of using appropriate materials in harmony with the environment. It reminds us daily of the importance of understanding and respecting the past, even as we make a place our own.
