What knowledge or accreditation do we have to back up what we do? Does it matter? This article explores some of the steps we take so that we are increasing our knowledge and application every step of the way. Also how that improves relations with architects and stonemasons. It is true that there is little in the way of a formal apprenticeship or course that can be taken to learn about cleaning or restoring stone. Yet we often find ourselves in a niche that stone masons do not

Masonry paint applied to stone work is can be for a number of reasons. However, most often, it carried out as a cheap or economical fix. Usually masking a problem, and in so doing, creating a bigger one. What do we mean? Certainly at one time, painted masonry was fashionable, and had some limited practicalities. For example, it provided a bright, clean finish! It also allowed algae and dirt to be manually cleaned off more easily before the advent of suitable washing methods.

Sandstone is used extensively as a building material throughout Scotland. In fact, it has been used since prehistoric times. Why? Most types of sandstone are reasonably resistant to weathering, easy to fashion and cut. It is an attractive material, giving a light and airy aesthetic. This is evident in locations such as Edinburgh's New Town World Heritage Site and Glasgow's West end, with its striking red sandstone. What of cleaning and restoring sandstone? We are all familia