Restoration project - a Victorian Kitchen
With a damp proof membrane failing under concrete, it was time to reinstate an early floor. Recent excavations showed and original brick and pamment Victorian floor awaiting rediscovery.
Here, is the process of the restoration These photographs are JPEG's, for better quality, so may take a while to load - so please be patient.
Picture 1
After careful removal of two inches of concrete, a plastic membrane and a good layer of bitumen, it was pleasing to find the original floor had retained much of its original character. I opted to take note of the positioning of each salvageable brick and pamment so they could be replaced once the new floor foundation was laid.
Picture 2
With the careful removal of the original brick floor (pamments still awaiting removal) The sand was inspected for debris, then two inches of top sand was removed prior to the floor area being compressed and levelled.
Picture 3
After a quality damp proof membrane (D.P.C) was laid, two inches of concrete were floated onto the area.
Picture 4
With the concrete dry, the pamments were carefully repositioned and placed on a weak lime mortar mix. We desired a slight concave drop around the door area to give the impression of wear, so the spirit level was discarded for phase 1 of the project.
Picture 5
With the floor relayed, I was ready for grouting with lime mortar, the walls are replastered.
Picture 6
The results, a typical Victorian cottage floor. Norfolk reds (local bricks) and 9" by 9" terracotta pamments.
Click here to see an enlarged version of the photo.
Picture 7
A handmade kitchen typical of a bygone era, installed and fully functional.
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