The Grade II* Bridgewater Monument is a tower on the Ashridge estate near Berkhamsted in Hertfordshire, built in 1832 in memory of Francis Egerton, 3rd Duke of Bridgewater (1736–1803), “the father of inland navigation”.

Over many years, the granite monument, exposed to the elements had developed wear and tear, with areas of erosion and pollutants. Paye were employed to carry out conservation masonry repairs and cleaning. The work included a complete repoint of all external granite blockwork joints using a hydraulic lime mortar.

A small number of moulded granite stone indents were installed externally using a Cornish grey granite as a stone source.

Tread repairs to the internal staircase were specified by the project architect, using a pre-mixed hydraulic lime step repair mix designed for use on ground-based masonry. The mix was formulated with a pozzolan additive to create a hard-wearing surface for areas of high footfall.

Our masons conducted isolated patch pointing to internal granite blockwork using NHL 3.5 and NHL 2 mortars.

Further granite mortar repairs using a hydraulic lime mortar with specialist aggregates to match the irregular finish of the granite.

Conservation cleaning was also undertaken both internally and externally using a high-pressured steam system and isolated areas of poultice.

A small metalwork repair scheme was completed which included the replacement of mesh window panels. Re-decorations were completed to all metal railings and hand-rails using a linseed oil paint which brought to project to a conclusion.