1800s farm cottage

[Debfro]

Hi,
we have bought an old 1800s farm cottage, which the previous owners have sadly neglected, and therefore things that should only be a small problem, are now big ones.
Also, they have removed a lot of old features, although we have found a beauty:

Untitled

• Debfro
• 10 Sep 2014
• 2

My question is about plastering both this fireplace and also the house. the parts of the walls exposed enough are either in brick:

Untitled

• Debfro
• 10 Sep 2014
• 2

or lath and plaster. I have been advised to match the plaster, as this will prevent the building not being able to 'breathe', but also if patched up with a breathable plaster any damp (which is an issue we are in the process of recitfying)v will seep out of that section...

So, as matching the plaster the best thing to do?

And how do I know what kind of plaster was used? It is a lightish grey colour.

Thanks,

 

[ree]

I think that you would be best to start with the basics of your project:

Where is the damp that you speak of? In the floor, near the floor or further up the wall(s)? Do the floors have membranes (DPM's)?

Where is the chimney breast in relation to the general dampness? Is it damp?

What is your proposal for the fire opening and fireplace?

How much original "plaster" is left on the walls?

Is the exterior rendered?