Lime has been used for over 2000 years within the building industry for mortars, internal plasters, external renders, foundations and aqueducts. The majority of published articles stated the history of lime was used as a building material and has been used on the majority of the Wonders of the World; which are still standing today. The earliest use of lime is dated to 6000BC found in a cave in Israel.

Lime is one of the oldest binding materials to be used in construction; other than mud, earth and clay. Prior to the development of concrete, lime mortar was used to construct some of the world’s most renowned buildings. Its origin can be traced back as far as the Greeks, Egyptians and Romans who all used an ancient form of it extensively in construction. Now it is mainly used for their repair.

However, we’re learning more about these traditional materials now, than was ever known when they were popular. The inherent natural properties of hydraulic lime provide the same practical benefits of modern OPC but with none of the disadvantages. Naturally, NHL (Natural Hydraulic Lime) is perfectly suited for new build and can play an important role in the future of modern construction to help reduce movement joints to provide bespoke colour joints for the aesthetics of the building.

Naturally, NHL (Natural Hydraulic Lime) is perfectly suited for new build and can play an important role in the future of modern construction

During the last 25 years, Lime has enjoyed a steady revival for repairs to historic buildings. The soft, porous and flexible nature of it; is now universally recognized as being vital to maintain the traditional breathing performance of old buildings. An increasing number of architects, engineers, surveyors and builders are now beginning to realise that lime has many benefits to offer in new builds.