I can match new stonework with the original to make it look like it has always been there.
It is important to bear in mind the characteristics of the masonry, it's style and method of construction to keep the building looking and acting as it should. It takes attention to detail, care in working, and a knowledge of the materials to prevent problems later on with excessive weathering, cracking and damp penetration. Also the use of inappropriate materials, colours or styles can ruin the appearance of the original structure. Matching any new work to the original, using (if possible) the same type of stone and an appropriate mortar is essential. It can be difficult to match stone because it is likely that the original source of the stone does not exist any more - quarries close down, and what appears to look like the same stone can be very different in their weathering characteristics.
Stone repair.
I can repair masonry that has either been damaged or has eroded, using specially formulated products that match the colour and characteristics of the masonry. The picture on the left is an example - it's all the same product that I have coloured and worked to resemble masonry and pointing.
http://www.stastier.co.uk/lithomex/stonerepair.php
Lime pointing.
Using a suitable lime mortar will help draw moisture from the building fabric, protecting the masonry from decay. The wall on the right has been stripped of it's original cement render and re-pointed with a coarse lime mortar mix. This helps the wall to "breathe", meaning any moisture can escape while at the same time shedding rainwater effectively, making for a more comfortable environment inside.
Masonry around the Ross-on-Wye area.
The characteristic building stone in and around Ross-on-Wye is a soft, rich, brown, medium-grained sandstone from the Devonian period. The sandstone features in both garden walls and extensively in the older buildings of Ross-on-Wye e.g. Market House, St Mary’s Church and Pye’s Almshouses.
There are also some areas of limestone and quartz conglomerate in the area.
For more information see this link:
http://www.buildingstones.org.uk/category/stone/south-herefordshire