Project Overview
We recently completed a full internal lime system and natural insulation upgrade on a beautiful 18-inch solid limestone house in Ketton, Rutland. The property had previously been finished with a hard sand and cement render and gypsum skim, which had trapped moisture within the walls, causing deterioration to the internal finishes and visible damp patches.
Our goal was to restore the breathability of the walls and significantly improve the property’s thermal performance using a traditional lime-based and natural insulation system.
The Problem
During our initial survey, we found that the previous cement render and gypsum skim were preventing moisture from escaping through the wall. This combination had effectively sealed the wall, creating trapped condensation and salt build-up beneath the surface.
As the building was constructed with solid limestone walls and no cavity, it’s essential that the wall can breathe naturally - allowing moisture vapour to move in and out freely. Cement and gypsum finishes, being impermeable, were causing more harm than good.
Our Solution
We carefully stripped all existing modern materials back to the original limestone substrate. The surface was cleaned, levelled, and prepared using a traditional lime render base coat, providing an open-pored, flexible foundation for the insulation layer.
We then installed the Warmshell Wood Fibre Natural Insulation System across all internal walls. This system offers excellent breathability, thermal insulation, and moisture regulation - perfectly suited to heritage stone properties like this one.
Once installed, we applied a fine lime finish coat over the insulation boards, creating a smooth, natural surface ready for decoration. The combination of lime render, wood fibre insulation, and lime finishing creates a fully breathable wall build-up that supports the building’s natural moisture balance.
The Result
The transformation was outstanding. The walls now have:
- A natural, breathable finish that allows the limestone to perform as intended
- Greatly improved thermal comfort and reduced heat loss
- Elimination of surface damp caused by trapped moisture
- A healthy indoor environment with improved air quality and stable humidity
The client was thrilled with both the visual finish and the performance improvement of their home.
“We couldn’t believe the difference - the house feels warmer, and the walls look fantastic. The team’s care and knowledge of traditional materials were exceptional.”
- Homeowner, Ketton, Rutland
Why Lime and Wood Fibre?
Traditional solid wall properties need to manage moisture rather than block it. The Warmshell Wood Fibre Natural Insulation System allows the wall to “breathe” while adding insulation - preventing condensation, mould growth, and decay that often occur when using impermeable modern materials.
Combined with lime render and plaster, it provides a long-term, sustainable, and heritage-friendly solution that works in harmony with the original building fabric.
Need Help with a Similar Project?
If you own a heritage property or solid wall home in Rutland or the surrounding areas, Dower Damp Proofing can help you design and install a fully breathable lime and insulation system tailored to your building.
Serving Rutland, Stamford, Grantham, and across Lincolnshire.
Contact us today to book a professional survey or discuss your renovation project.
