Rediscovering Traditional Mortars

Masonry—whether brick, stone, terra-cotta, or concrete block—comprises a significant part of historic buildings. Although inherently durable, masonry requires proper care to prevent deterioration. The National Park Service’s Preservation Brief #2 describes the benefits of mixing traditional lime mortar. They imply that lesser quality material is acceptable due to scarcity of craftspeople with knowledge to install these mortars. 

We aim to reduce this scarcity rather than relying on lower quality, working with the approval of Nebraska SHPO, The Association of Preservation Technology – Central Plains Chapter, Nebraska Masonry Alliance, Mid-Continental Restoration Company, and more.

Each workshop will equip those in architecture, construction, and historic preservation with skills to work with traditional mortars through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on practice. Day 1 of 2 will focus on understanding history,, and importance of using historic mortars as opposed to modern materials. On day 2, attendees will gain experience examining joints, identifying sections that need to be re-pointed, preparing joints for repointing, mixing, and applying mortar.

Upcoming Sessions: (Register)

Nigel Copsey, workshop teacher, is a seasoned stonemason and conservator with extensive experience in historic masonry repair and conservation. Beginning his career as a dry-stone waller in Cornwall, Nigel trained in stonemasonry and carving at Weymouth College. 

He has since worked across southern England and internationally, consulting on projects from Vermont to Andalusia. In 2001, he served as masonry consultant for the Irish Hunger Memorial in New York City. Working with Jerry Berggren of Berggren Architects, P.C., Nigel is bringing his knowledge of traditional mortars to the Midwest United States.