STABILIZATION OF WALLS WITH LIME-MORTAR CAPPING

Abstract

The capping of walls left exposed following archaeological excavations of ancient buildings has been found to be an effective way of preserving these structures from further decay as, once excavated, they may be exposed to extremes of weather and the impact of grass, plant and tree growth. The importance of designing capping mortars that have strength, porosity and thermal expansion properties similar to those of the wall stones is emphasized. The previous use of cement for this purpose has proved unsatisfactory. The capping programme described here required consistent production of the mortar mixes and the availability of a local trained workforce. The importance of thorough cleaning of structures before capping, careful tending of mortars immediately after their application, ongoing monitoring of the walls and subsequent removal of intruding vegetation is emphasized.