Lime ash floors were an economic form of floor construction from the 15th century to the 19th century for upper floors in parts of england where limestone or chalk were easily available.
Lime ash floor upstairs.
They were a clever composition as they are flexible enough to cope with minor movement in the building they are breathable they are much warmer to walk on than a concrete floor and they look good.
According to the literature alabaster floors plaster concrete lime plaster floors or limesh floors all sometimes seem to have a been terms for gypsum plaster floors.
Lime ash floors are found at ground level and at first floor level often supported on a layer of reeds over the joists and hidden from below by plaster and lath ceilings.
Lime ash floors were made with the ash residue of lime kilns.
Cotehele house in calstock cornwall a grade i listed mansion built c1300 with later phases of alteration has an impressive lime ash floor dating from 1520.
Lime wash is a time tested treatment for wood and masonry that complements many architectural styles.
Even today the term lime ash floors is much used misleadingly as a generic name for both lime and gypsum plaster floors.
I have read the information on your site with interest and on your suggestion shall contact rose of jerico on monday.
The noise challenge upper story floor coverings need to address issues of noise which can disrupt the peace of the most tranquilly decorated living room dining room or downstairs bedroom.
The spab leaflet is a good read but doesn t really tackle the repair of lime ash floors.
They were strong flexible and offered good heat and sound insulation.
Mixture with lots of straw or sawdust left rough for good tooth and a finish coat without the insulating additive.
Unfortunately true lime wash is temporary and unsuitable for most floors.
I live in an old farmhouse and it appears that the upstairs floor is 2inch thick concrete ontop of a lath like material.
Thanks for your replies.
However any advice from anyone with real world experience of getting new lime to bond with the old would still be welcome.
I can go to around 4cm thick max otherwise will exceed the door threshold timbers hope that is thick enough.
It appears that this setup is extremely unusual and i could do with talking to someone who has experience in such things.
Fortunately the wealth of floor coverings available lets you choose the perfect covering for bedrooms baths and other upstairs rooms.