There is something timeless about the way natural stone sits within the South Devon landscape. From the warm, sandy tones of limestone to the rugged, grey granite found on the fringes of Dartmoor, stone is the DNA of our local architecture. However, working with stone isn’t just about stacking rocks; it’s an art form that requires a deep understanding of geology, physics, and traditional craftsmanship.
Hi, I’m Steve, the owner of South Devon Construction. I’m Devon born and bred, and I’ve spent over 25 years in the building trade. I started as a labourer, getting my hands dirty with the “hard graft” of stone walling, before moving up to run my own business with a Level 7 Diploma in Construction Management. At South Devon Construction, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and honesty, especially when it comes to preserving the traditional masonry techniques that make our local homes so special.
The Importance of Local Stone and Traditional Mortars
In South Devon, we are blessed with a variety of stone types. Whether you are in Ashburton, Totnes, or Newton Abbot, the stone used in your home likely came from a quarry just a few miles away. Using local stone ensures that any new extension or repair blends seamlessly with the original structure.
One of the biggest mistakes I see in modern stone repairs is the use of cement-based mortars. Traditional stone buildings were designed to be flexible and breathable. Cement is too rigid and waterproof, which traps moisture inside the stone and causes it to flake or “spall.” We specialise in using lime mortars. Lime allows the building to breathe and move slightly without cracking, which is essential for the longevity of a stone property in our damp climate.
Dry Stone Walling vs. Mortared Masonry
At South Devon Construction, we offer a tailor-made approach to your masonry needs. Depending on your project, we typically use one of two traditional techniques:
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Dry Stone Walling: Common for field boundaries and garden walls in more rural areas like Dartington or Ivybridge. This technique relies on the skillful interlocking of stones without any mortar at all. It requires immense “hard graft” and an eye for detail to ensure the wall is structurally sound and drains naturally.
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Mortared Stone Masonry: This is what we use for house walls, extensions, and more formal garden features. We carefully select “face stones” to create a beautiful finish, while the “hearting” (the middle of the wall) is filled with smaller stones and mortar to provide strength and insulation.
Structural Integrity and Innovation
You might wonder why a builder with a Level 7 Diploma and a background in Quantity Surveying is needed for a stone wall. The truth is, stone is incredibly heavy. Without proper groundworks and structural calculations, a stone wall can easily settle or collapse.
Every build we work on is unique. I use my expertise in cost estimation to help you choose the right stone for your budget, and my management training to ensure the project runs smoothly and safely. We strive to exceed expectations by combining these traditional “old world” skills with modern project management.
Serving the South Devon Community
We cover a 10-mile radius from Newton Abbot, bringing our passion for traditional masonry to homes across South Devon. Whether you need a small garden wall repaired or a full stone-faced extension as Principle Contractors, my small team of local professional tradesmen and I are ready to help.
Do you have a stone project that requires a traditional touch?
I’ve seen a lot of builds over the last 25 years, and I know that when it comes to natural stone, there are no shortcuts to quality. I’d be happy to discuss your project and show you how we can use traditional techniques to create something truly lasting.
Would you like me to come out and look at your existing stonework to provide an honest assessment of any necessary repairs or new build options?