Question 1

Masonry

Answer

We have a good network of masons with whom we work. A large percentage of them are part of the "Label du Patrimoine" which means they have been recognised for their outstanding work. Although they are able to carry out "new build" work (such as rendered block work) most of the masons with whom we work spend the majority of their time restoring old stone properties. This can entail using old corner stones for door and window surrounds, creation of arches or unusual shapes to fit with ancient buildings, "crepie à l'ancienne" which is an old style render, lauze rooves (a very old style stone roof often seen on churches), pisé floors (often seen in châteaux and which take the form of a large pebble style floor) - the list is endless. "Proper" masonry work is not to be rushed but you will be delighted with the results - it's worth the wait!

Question 2

Tiling

Answer

Tiling in old houses can often be more difficult than in new builds. The floors are generally wood and so tiling straight on top is not an option as movement would cause cracking in the joints and even the tiles themselves. Special screeds are laid before the tiles are laid on wooden floors. Tiling can also take the form of a mix of old tiles and oak which is a design seen in some châteaux. The tilers with whom we work are also able to lay "douche à l'Italienne" (large Italian walk-in showers), complete with the special evacuation pipework. We have a network of specialists in tiling, whether wall or floor.

Question 3

Charpente

Answer

In France the artisan laying the tiles on a roof does not always have to be the same person as the artisan creating the roof structure. Charpentiers work with both new beams and old treated beams. All wood used in France is treated against woodworm, capricorn beetle and termites.

Question 4

Roofing

Answer

Tiles in the Dordogne area are offered in many shapes and sizes. The old peg tiles are in diminishing supply - companies now tend to make new tiles with varying mixed colours to make them look "old" and they come with a guarantee against frost. Given the steep pitch of the rooves here it is not uncommon to see the majority of a roof tiled in peg tiles with the bottom section tiled with much larger tiles for extra support. The "scalloped" effect under the guttering is a local feature called "genoise" and can be made in single, double or even triple. "Lucarnes" (or dormer windows) are very common in the Dordogne. There are various designs, the sides of the lucarne being either tiled, rendered or a more elaborate brique effect.

Question 5

Carpentry

Answer

Carpenters are worth their weight in gold given their ability to make "irregular shaped" rooms appear more uniform. Bespoke kitchens and bathrooms can be finished to a high standard in a variety of natural woods - either for staining, waxing or painting. Doors and windows of varying sizes may be made - each tailor made to the size of the old stone opening. Generally speaking the mason will create the opening for a new door or window, the carpenter will make and fit the window, and then the mason will finish by making the surround airtight.

Question 6

Painter

Answer

Painters here in France are more like artists. They take great pride in their work and enjoy advising clients as to the type of paint and colours they feel are best suited to an old stone property. Painters tend to mix their own paints to suit the client's requirements. In order to lighten beams if a room is sombre a limed effect is often used.

Question 7

Fabrics

Answer

Beautiful fabrics can be found here and in old stone houses they often compliment the rooms. Covering antique chairs, chaises longues etc is also an ideal way of adding a fresh look to an old piece of furniture and making blinds to fit to the various windows which are not standard size can also add a lovely finishing touch to a room.

Question 8

Swimming Pools

Answer

We are able to project manage the installation of new pools and repairs to existing pools including, obtaining the necessary permits for a new pool from the various authorities. Infinity pools have become very popular and given the stunning views enjoyed by the majority of property owners here a large percentage of them want to ensure they place their pools in the best possible location. Pool houses, covered eating areas and summer kitchens are also frequently requested by clients who wish to have "all amenities" in close proximity to their pool. These structures can take the form of open wooden decking, stone flooring with beams & tiled roof structures, or occasionally even old stone open buildings or "au vents".

Question 9

Gardens & Landscaping

Answer

We are able to project manage the installation of new pools and repairs to existing pools including, obtaining the necessary permits for a new pool from the various authorities. Infinity pools have become very popular and given the stunning views enjoyed by the majority of property owners here a large percentage of them want to ensure they place their pools in the best possible location. Pool houses, covered eating areas and summer kitchens are also frequently requested by clients who wish to have "all amenities" in close proximity to their pool. These structures can take the form of open wooden decking, stone flooring with beams & tiled roof structures, or occasionally even old stone open buildings or "au vents".

Question 10

Ironwork

Answer

There are a number of local ironworkers who make bespoke gates, barriers/bannisters, fancy fencing etc. Given that these are all hand made, artisans are also able to make copies if you have a particularly favourite design you have seen.