Bungaroosh Repairs in Brighton & Hove—Restoring the City’s Historic Fabric

Understanding Bungaroosh: A Local Legacy

Bungaroosh, sometimes spelled “bungarouche,” is distinctive to Brighton & Hove and nearby coastal regions. Historically, builders combined lime with readily available aggregates such as flint, broken bricks, pebbles, and, on occasion, wood offcuts. This patchwork approach reflected both local resourcefulness and the need to keep construction costs down.

1. Composition

   • Lime Mortar: Unlike modern cement mortar, lime is porous and more flexible.

   • Flint & Brick Rubble: Often sourced from local beaches or demolition materials.

   • Organic Material: In some cases, even shells or small pieces of timber find their way into bungaroosh walls.

2. Vulnerability to Moisture

   • Bungaroosh walls rely on breathability; they must be able to absorb and then release moisture without trapping it.

   • Modern, non-breathable products can inadvertently seal in damp, leading to rapid deterioration.

3. A Heritage Worth Preserving

   • Many historic terraces, cottages, and period properties across Brighton & Hove feature bungaroosh construction.

   • Local authorities, such as the Brighton & Hove City Council (BHCC), often encourage proper maintenance and repairs to safeguard the city’s architectural identity.

Common Pitfalls in Bungaroosh Repairs

Despite its historic prominence, bungaroosh can be misunderstood by well-meaning contractors not specialised in heritage structures. Some common errors include:

1. Using Cement-Based Mortars

   • Problem: Cement does not share the same vapour permeability as lime. When combined with bungaroosh, cement mortar traps moisture within the wall, leading to decay.

   • Why It Matters: Over time, trapped water can freeze, expand, and cause cracking or bulging.

2. Applying Non-Breathable Paints or Renders

   • Problem: Acrylic-based or vinyl paints seal the wall’s surface.

   • Consequence: The trapped moisture results in damp patches, flaking plaster, and even structural damage to the bungaroosh core.

3. Installing Modern Damp-Proof Courses

   • Problem: Bungaroosh walls were never designed for injected damp-proof courses or certain tanking systems, which can disrupt the wall’s natural moisture balance.

   • Impact: Such interventions often exacerbate damp, leading to further deterioration of the internal material.

In their guides on building conservation, Brighton & Hove City Council emphasises using breathable materials and avoiding modern interventions that compromise older, lime-based walls. For additional context, the BHCC’s resources on damp in historic buildings highlight that chemical damp-proof treatments can be ineffective—or even damaging—when dealing with permeable materials like bungaroosh.
(Source: Brighton & Hove City Council: Damp Treatment)

Why Bungaroosh Needs a Specialist Approach

1. Localised Knowledge

Bungaroosh is not a material found throughout the UK; it’s specific to Brighton & Hove and select nearby areas. It requires a tailored strategy rooted in local building traditions and climatic conditions.

2. Lime Compatibility

A key principle of heritage conservation is that repairs must be “like-for-like.” In other words, you repair lime-based walls with compatible lime mortars, not with cement. This ensures the wall can continue to “breathe” and flex naturally.

3. Structural Assessment

Bungaroosh walls can be structurally sound for centuries if kept dry and properly maintained. However, concealed damp or poor previous repairs can weaken the core. A thorough survey is essential to determine any hidden damage.

4. Preservation of Architectural Character

The visual character of bungaroosh can vary from property to property, sometimes featuring flint nodules or brick fragments that become partially visible. Respecting and, where appropriate, retaining these original features is part of Brighton & Hove’s broader conservation ethos.

Safe-Bricks: Your Bungaroosh Repair Specialist

Comprehensive Assessment

• Initial Survey: We evaluate the extent of damage, looking for signs of damp, cracks, or bulging.

• Laboratory Tests (If Required): In tricky cases, we may arrange mortar analysis to ensure a precise match for your bungaroosh wall’s original composition.

Material Matching

• Lime-Based Mortars: We use breathable, NHL (Natural Hydraulic Lime) mortars or carefully formulated lime putty mixes that bond well with existing bungaroosh.

• Compatible Aggregates: Where necessary, we replicate the original flint or brick fragments for seamless integration.

Breathable Finishes

• Traditional Renders: Instead of modern gypsum or cement renders, we apply lime-based or other vapour-permeable coatings.

• Limewash & Mineral Paints: These finishes allow moisture to evaporate and maintain the aesthetic integrity of period properties.

Continuous Monitoring

• Post-Repair Checks: Bungaroosh repairs must settle and adapt to changing moisture levels. We offer follow-up inspections to ensure that everything remains stable.

• Maintenance Advice: Guidance on best practices—such as preventing water ingress and using breathable interior finishes—helps preserve your walls for the long term.

Collaborating with Local Authorities

In conservation areas or for listed properties, official approval may be required before making alterations to bungaroosh walls. Brighton & Hove City Council provides thorough guidance on the permissions process, along with details on appropriate materials and methods.
(Source: Brighton & Hove City Council: Listed Buildings)

• Listed Building Consent: Required for any work that may affect a building’s special architectural or historic interest.

• Conservation Areas: Homeowners often need to ensure external alterations respect local character.

• Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs): BHCC publishes SPDs offering advice on maintaining period properties, emphasising the importance of breathable solutions for bungaroosh walls.

Working with Safe-Bricks on Permissions

• Documentation & Drawings: We can assist with preparing the necessary documentation to satisfy council requirements.

• Dialogue with Conservation Officers: If your property is listed or within a conservation area, we help communicate your approach to local heritage officers, demonstrating how our techniques align with official guidance.

Damp & Moisture Considerations

Because bungaroosh walls are inherently porous, managing moisture is crucial. Our approach includes:

1. Investigating Water Sources

   • Checking roof flashings, gutters, and downpipes to ensure no leaks saturate the wall.

   • Reviewing internal plumbing for hidden issues that might seep into masonry.

2. Ventilation

   • Encouraging airflow in enclosed spaces, such as basements or underfloor voids, to minimise condensation.

   • Installing or upgrading vent bricks if needed, especially in older structures.

3. Avoiding Modern Tanking

   • We do not recommend standard cement-based tanking systems for bungaroosh, as they trap moisture within the wall.

   • Instead, we rely on breathable, water-shedding finishes that allow vapour to escape.

(For official best practices on damp control in historic buildings, see Historic England’s Guidance. While not Brighton-specific, it reinforces the importance of compatibility with traditional materials.)

Extending the Life of Your Bungaroosh Walls

Regular Maintenance

Bungaroosh can last centuries if properly cared for. Simple tasks, like repointing with lime mortar and maintaining roof coverings, help prevent water ingress and structural deterioration.

Early Intervention

If you spot cracks, bowing walls, or damp patches, addressing them swiftly can stave off more extensive damage. Overlooking minor faults often leads to costlier repairs down the line.

Appropriate Internal Finishes

Inside the property, consider breathable plasters or limewash instead of modern gypsum or latex-based paints. This ensures moisture vapour can exit through the wall, reducing condensation and mould risks.

Working with Safe-Bricks: Our Process

1. Consultation

   • We arrange an on-site visit to inspect the condition of your bungaroosh walls and discuss your concerns.

   • We provide an initial assessment and a transparent quote.

2. Detailed Survey & Scope of Work

   • If needed, we perform in-depth investigations—removing minor sections of render, conducting moisture readings, and examining mortar samples.

   • We produce a detailed project plan, specifying materials, timelines, and costs.

3. Repairs & Restoration

   • Our team carefully removes any incompatible materials—such as cement mortar or non-breathable paints.

   • We then apply lime-based mortars and renders, matching the original appearance and composition of your bungaroosh walls.

4. Finishing & Aftercare

   • Once the wall repairs are completed, we apply final decorative finishes—often limewash or mineral paints.

   • We offer tips on routine maintenance, ensuring your newly restored bungaroosh stands the test of time.

5. Ongoing Support

   • Should you require further assistance or a follow-up inspection, our team is just a phone call away.

   • We pride ourselves on fostering a long-term relationship with homeowners who value Brighton & Hove’s heritage.

Contact Safe-Bricks for Expert Bungaroosh Repairs

Bungaroosh is more than a quaint historical curiosity—it's a vital part of Brighton & Hove’s architectural tapestry. Repairing it correctly requires a nuanced approach, one that respects its lime-based roots and ensures lasting durability.

At Safe-Bricks, we specialise in bungaroosh repairs that preserve your home’s character while addressing practical needs like damp control and structural stability. Our work aligns with Brighton & Hove City Council guidelines and the broader principles of sustainable heritage conservation.

Ready to Restore Your Bungaroosh Walls?

• Call Now: 07459174692

• Email: info@safe-bricks.com

• Request a Quote: Contact

Safeguard the legacy of your property with specialist bungaroosh repairs. By choosing Safe-Bricks, you’re investing in both the historic integrity of your home and the comfort of future generations. Let us help you keep Brighton & Hove’s heritage alive, one careful repair at a time.