Re: More Lobato Photos From April 30, 2011

The picture of the stone work shows some poorly done repointing and the need for additional, competent repointing on the upper courses of stone. Modern mortar with a high Portland content is inappropriate for soft stone as it expands and contracts at different rates than the stone and causes stone failure. The mortar should be a softer lime based one that won't cause premature failure of the stone. The pointing showing on the lower courses was smeared on by someone who more than likely did more harm than good. I would hope the stone work specs are based on current stone conservation procedures. Mortar bought in bags at the hardware store is the wrong stuff for sandstone, which is what this stone may be.

Fritz