Brighton and Hove is world-renowned for its architectural heritage. From the grand Regency squares of Brunswick and glorious Victorian terraces to the flint-walled cottages of the South Downs, our region is rich in history. Owning a period property or a Grade I / II Listed building is a privilege, but it also comes with a responsibility to maintain the fabric of the building correctly. Ridge Group Contracting specialises in heritage restoration and conservation building work. We combine traditional craftsmanship with a deep understanding of historic building physics to preserve the past for the future.
Modern buildings are designed to be sealed and watertight; historic buildings are designed to “breathe.” Using modern materials like cement render, gypsum plaster, or plastic paints on an old building can cause disastrous damp problems, trapping moisture within the walls and rotting the structure. At Ridge Group Contracting, we understand the importance of breathability. We use traditional materials and techniques that work in harmony with the original building fabric, ensuring the longevity of the structure.
One of the most critical aspects of heritage work is the use of lime. Unlike modern cement, lime is flexible and permeable, allowing moisture to evaporate.
Internal Lime Plastering: We repair lath and plaster ceilings and walls, or apply new lime plaster coats that provide a beautiful, soft finish and regulate humidity.
External Lime Rendering: We remove damaging cement renders and replace them with hydraulic lime render or traditional stucco (common in Brighton). This allows the walls to dry out and prevents the “blowing” of brick faces.
The sash window is a defining feature of the Georgian and Victorian home. We believe in repair over replacement wherever possible.
Draught Proofing: We can route brush piles into existing sashes to eliminate rattles and draughts without altering the window’s appearance.
Timber Repair: We splice in new timber to repair rotten sills or rails, using epoxy resin systems for a durable bond.
Re-cording and Re-weighting: We ensure your windows open smoothly and are perfectly balanced.
Sussex is famous for its flint architecture. Repairing flint walls requires specific skills. We carefully select flints to match the existing size and colour (knapped or unknapped) and bed them in a lime mortar. We ensure the pointing style (galleting or flush) matches the historic precedent.
We work with fibrous plaster specialists to restore or replicate damaged cornicing, ceiling roses, and decorative mouldings. Whether water damaged or painted over with layers of gloss, we can bring these intricate details back to their original crispness.
We undertake careful repointing using lime mortar. We remove old cement pointing by hand or with oscillating tools to avoid damaging the brick edges (arris). We can also source reclaimed bricks to replace damaged units, ensuring a seamless visual match.
Works to Listed buildings often require Listed Building Consent. We are experienced in working alongside Conservation Officers, architects, and heritage consultants. We can produce method statements and samples for approval, demonstrating that our proposed works respect the historic significance of the building.
Restoring an old building requires patience, skill, and passion. It is not about speed; it is about doing it right. Our team is passionate about preserving Sussex’s history. We uncover the beauty of the original craftsmanship rather than covering it up.
If you are the custodian of a period property in Brighton, Hove, or East Sussex, trust Ridge Group Contracting with its care. Contact us today to discuss your restoration project and ensure your home is preserved for generations to come.
We provide a complete, end-to-end solution for every project. From the initial survey and planning to the final high-quality finish, our integrated team manages every detail to ensure a seamless workflow and minimal disruption to your property
Quality starts with the materials we use. We source only the highest-grade products—whether structural steel, sustainable timber, or heritage brick—ensuring durability and a finish that withstands the Sussex coastal climate
Every project is executed by fully qualified professionals. Our team combines traditional trade skills with rigorous modern construction standards, ensuring structural integrity, safety compliance, and exceptional attention to detail.
