Business Details
21 Years
experience
Expert Historic Building Restoration Services in Leicestershire
R J Rowley is a family-run business with two decades of expertise in restoring listed buildings and structures of historical significance. Our commitment to traditional techniques and materials ensures the preservation of architectural authenticity while meeting modern efficiency standards. As members of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB), we adhere to rigorous conservation principles and maintain full insurance coverage with historic CSCS accreditation. Our team has collaborated with local councils, Leicester County Council's heritage department, and English Heritage on projects across Leicestershire and surrounding regions.We specialise in lime pointing, exterior rendering, interior plastering, and timber framing, using period-appropriate methods to maintain structural integrity. Client testimonials highlight our ability to blend repairs seamlessly with original features, as demonstrated in projects for Rutland & Melton Conservative Association and private clients like MR Heygate. Our vision combines deep respect for heritage with technical excellence, ensuring historic properties retain their character for future generations.
Services
Lime Pointing
Exterior Lime Rendering
Interior Lime Plastering
Timber Framing
Brickwork & Stonework
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We have 20 years' experience in listed building restoration
- Our team holds historic CSCS accreditation for heritage work
- We use traditional lime-based materials for authentic repairs
- Proven track record with local councils and English Heritage
- Bespoke timber framing using period-appropriate oak
Associations and certifications
- Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB)
What people say
Neat job
Quality and finish
Favorable comments
Retained character
Impressed with work
Services
Lime Pointing
Traditional lime pointing using semi-sharp sand and lime mixtures that allow buildings to breathe. We match regional sand types to original pointing colours while repairing brickwork and stone, including sandstone, ironstone, and granite. This technique prevents structural damage by accommodating natural movement, unlike rigid cement-based alternatives.
Exterior Lime Rendering
Three-coat lime rendering system with scratch, float, and finish coats. Horsehair reinforcement in base layers ensures durability, while breathable finishes like ashlar or flat render prevent damp. This traditional method allows moisture escape, avoiding the water-locking issues of modern cement renders for long-term building health.
Interior Lime Plastering
Three-coat lime plaster application on lath, stone, or brickwork using scratch, devil, and float coats. The breathable system regulates moisture, preventing damp problems in historic interiors. This traditional technique maintains structural integrity while providing authentic finishes for period properties.
Timber Framing
Replacement of decayed timber with treated oak matched to original shapes and moisture requirements. Our bench joinery service creates bespoke oak-framed structures using period, green, kiln, or air-dried oak to maintain historical accuracy in traditional building methods.
Brickwork & Stonework
Comprehensive brick and stonework renovation from individual wall repairs to full house restorations. We source replacement materials matching original size, colour, and texture to preserve architectural character while ensuring structural stability in historic properties.
Questions
What types of buildings do you specialise in restoring?
We focus on listed buildings and structures of historical interest, using traditional techniques to preserve architectural authenticity.
Why use lime-based materials for restoration?
Lime allows buildings to breathe, accommodates natural movement, and prevents damp issues compared to rigid cement alternatives.
Do you work with local authorities and heritage bodies?
Yes, we've completed projects for Leicester County Council's heritage department, English Heritage, and local councils.
What areas do you cover for restoration projects?
We operate primarily in Leicestershire and surrounding regions, serving both private and public sector clients.
How do you ensure period-appropriate repairs?
We use traditional methods, match original materials precisely, and employ craftsmen with specialist heritage skills.
