Lime repointing
Failed or unsuitable joints raked out and repointed in natural hydraulic lime (NHL) or hot-mixed lime (Hotlime), matched to the original mortar.
Stonemasonry andconservation forhistoric buildings.
Specialist stonemasonry and traditional conservation for period and historic properties across South Yorkshire and the Peak District. From sympathetic lime repointing and stone repairs to bespoke hand-carving, Dowling Masonry Solutions brings expert craftsmanship and genuine care to preserving the character of your stonework.
- Over a decade in the heritage trade
- Lime and traditional methods
- Based in Rotherham
(a strong shot of you at work)
About me
My name is Rhys, I'm a self-employed stonemason with over a decade of experience in the heritage trade. I've worked as a sole trader alongside many contractors, on some of the finest historic buildings and gardens in the north of England.
My passion for stonemasonry has been passed down through generations of my family. It shapes how I work: patiently, with traditional materials, and with respect for the people who built the stonework in the first place.
I've worked for and alongside companies including HMC and Maysand.
Conservation projects I've worked on
- Wentworth Woodhouse (Camellia House, Ionic Temple, Sunken Garden)
- Chatsworth Estate
- Scarisbrick Hall
- Ossett Town Hall
- Leeds Town Hall
- Heart of the City, Sheffield
- RHS Garden Bridgewater
- and many more
I spent a hands-on week working alongside the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) during their annual working party. It was a privilege to contribute to historic conservation efforts and demonstrate traditional stonemasonry techniques to the wider public.
I was also interviewed for a recent episode of Our Great Yorkshire Life on Channel 5.
What I offer
Repair, restoration and new work in stone, from a single joint to a full rebuild.
Sand mastic pointing
Pointing for the gap where stone meets timber, metal or plastic, finished to keep the original look of the building.
Stone walling
Repairs, rebuilds and new-build walls, laid in keeping with the local stone and building style.
Masonry repairs
Plastic stone repairs to chipped, eroded or damaged stone, shaped and coloured to blend with the surrounding masonry.
Stone indenting
Decayed sections cut out and replaced with new, matching stone, keeping as much of the original as possible.
Full unit replacement
Where a stone has failed beyond repair, a new unit is cut and dressed to match and fitted in its place.
Bespoke stone carving
Hand-carved details and one-off pieces, cut to match an original or made to your design.
Masonry cleaning
Careful cleaning to remove dirt, growth and staining without harming the stone surface.
Stone survey and specialist consultation
An on-site look at the condition of your stonework, with clear advice on what needs doing now, what can wait, and how to go about it.
How We Price Our Work
Every stonemasonry and restoration project is unique, which is why we don’t do generic one-size-fits-all pricing. Depending on the nature of your project, we offer two transparent approaches:
Fixed-Price Quotations
Best for clearly defined projects—such as building a new stone boundary wall, constructing a garden feature, or specific replacement work. We inspect the site, agree on a fixed price upfront, and stick to it so there are no nasty surprises.
Day Rates & Time-and-Materials
Best for complex restoration, conservation repairs, or lime repointing where the full extent of hidden damage can only be seen once work begins. We charge a fair, transparent day rate plus materials, keeping you fully informed every step of the way.
Before and after
Recent work, shown as it was found and as it was left.
Request a quote
Tell me about your building and the work you think it needs. I'll get back to you to talk it through and arrange a visit where needed.
Contact Rhys at
- Phone07407 038650
- Emaildowlingmasonrysolutions@gmail.com
- AreaBased in Rotherham, covering South Yorkshire and the Peak District