On-Point Stonemasonry

Proud to be mentioned in the history books a long side some of Glasgow’s top Stonemasons since 1574. More than 3680 records have been added to the record from 1574 to 2016. Legend has it that the Incorporation was established to protect the stonemasons and the City of Glasgow from poor workmanshi... Lime mortar is composed of lime and an aggregate such as sand, mixed with water. The Ancient Egyptians were the first to use lime mortars. About 6,000 years ago, they used lime to build and plaster the pyramids at Giza. Traditional mass-masonry wall construction (which includes most walls built b... Sandstone is the main type of building stone used in Scotland. Although a durable material, sandstone is also naturally porous, making it prone to erosion if subjected to water and wind over time. Correctly used and maintained, however, stone is a sound, stable building material – as shown by our many prehistoric, medieval, Georgian and Victorian buildings.Many stone decay problems begin with the failure to maintain buildings. Regular inspection and repair of roofing leadwork, rainwater goods and underground drainage will help to prevent water from entering and saturating stonework. You should also look out for pointing missing between individual stones, as moss, grasses, small bushes and saplings may begin to grow in these gaps, damaging the structure further.Historic buildings are expected to show signs of ageing:sandstone can erode and decay to quite a depth before causing structural problems that must be fixedthe surface patina that forms over time is very valuable, as it adds a sense of history and a protective layer, and it can also be attractiveStone cleaning can remove the surface patina and lead to serious erosion. Both physical and chemical cleaning methods have caused severe damage to Scotland’s stone buildings in the past. As a result, stone cleaning is generally reserved only for very heavy soiling.New cleaning techniques should also be treated with caution, although some are appropriate to use. The safest way to avoid the risk of damage to a sandstone building from any form of cleaning is simply not to clean in the first place.When maintenance and repairs are needed, you should select a contractor who has the right technical knowledge, good craft skills and the ability to source and work with the right materials.

Monica Houston
5 Star
On Point recently restored and re-pointed the rear elevation of my house. From my initial call, Gary and his colleague were round within the next couple of days to take a look and give me advice - clearly they are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about what they do, knowing straight away what the issue was and could explain this to me in a clear and understandable way. I received an email a couple of days later with a quotation for the works - split into various sections of the building. Gary was very clear about the time scale for being able to commence work, and likely duration. Gary was in contact again nearer the time (in line with anticipated time scale), and kept me in the loop with what to expect (eg when scaffolders would be coming etc). When works commenced the team worked solidly (starting on a Saturday) and completed the work in less than the 2 week period (work has been estimated as being 1-2 weeks). The difference in stonework is incredible - all the old cement fillers has been replaced and the sandstone is so much more vibrant and authentic. Patches that had been eroded are now fully repaired and the building looks so much better. I also really appreciated the thorough tidy up On Point did at the end of the job (which is secondary, but I think a very important element). I would definitely get On Point in again to do other parts of the house, and would recommend to others. They are up front, reliable, and my expectations were managed throughout the whole process.
Saturday 21st August 2021

Claire Blackwood
5 Star
Outstanding work from Gary, Martin and the team, the work was so good we ended up getting three additional stonework jobs done. Their knowledge, especially of old buildings, is superb and they’re not afraid to take on challenge or be creative when the opportunity presents itself. The front of our house has been restored to the beautiful sandstone and lime mortar it was built with and Gary also installed a marble fireplace, back patio and new doorsteps. Highly recommended, wouldn’t use anyone else!
Tuesday 3rd August 2021

Kevin Lacon
5 Star
Gary and the guys helped reinstate our Georgian property and I wouldn’t trust anyone else with our stonemasonry projects.. the quality of work your getting for your money and experience the guys have is second to none. He has reinstated our gable end which was cover in cement with natural sandstone which was colour matched to the existing sandstone and built in natural lime mortar. He also carved a lovely sculpture of a collie for us which is absolutely beautiful
Wednesday 4th August 2021

clare egan
5 Star
We had a problem with the outside of our house where a door had been blocked up years ago with bricks and cement. This had caused a damp problem inside the house. Gary from On Point Stonemason took out the old brick and cement and replaced this with sandstone in keeping with the rest of the exterior. Gary was courteous and professional. We are delighted with his work and will recommend him to family and friends.
Monday 15th February 2021

David Lawson
5 Star
Gary replaced a broken lintel on the bay window of our early Victorian house. His knowledge and passion for traditional stonework was obvious from the outset and it showed in the quality of his workmanship and attention to detail.
Thursday 2nd December 2021