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Staircase & Structural Repairs Case Study
Structural Repairs to internal and external Portland and other sand stones.
Take a virtual tour to understand the projects led by the Stonemasons and Project Managers at MGS Restoration Ltd. We encourage you to contact us if you think you’d like to work with us.
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Water Damaged Dental Repairs, London
August, 2022
Project:
Parliament Hill School, Highgate Rd, Highgate, London, NW5 1RL, UK
Details:A long-standing issue with the roof guttering system had allowed water to seep into the decorative overhanging dental detailing for decades, leading to erosion and sections breaking away. MGS was commissioned to fully rebuild the missing elements, carrying out the restoration safely from a 20-metre-high cherry picker operated by our IPAF-qualified team.
Royal Mail Streatham Delivery Office
February, 2024
Project:
Royal Mail Streatham Delivery Office - 10 Prentis Rd, London SW16 1QA
Details:
This project required our team to work safely and efficiently at a variety of heights, carrying out essential repairs both at ground level and at the top of the building. The primary concern was a severely cracked chimney stack that posed a risk of continued movement and further deterioration.
To restore stability, we installed 8mm stainless steel dog cramps, carefully positioned to draw the fractured sections back together and lock them securely in place. This reinforcement method ensures the chimney remains structurally sound for years to come, preventing future displacement.
All works were completed in accordance with best practice and safety guidelines, with our trained operatives using appropriate access equipment to deliver a high-quality, long-lasting repair for the Royal Mail facility.
Portland Staircase Structural Repairs
September, 2024
Project:
Queens Gate Terrace
Details:
This historic former diplomatic residence presented significant challenges due to the extensive deterioration of its main staircase. Over the years, numerous treads and risers had suffered chips, fractures, and areas of complete material loss, affecting both safety and appearance. The most critical issue was a heavily damaged winder step on the fourth floor, where a large section had broken away and required a full structural rebuild.
Our expert stonemasons carried out a meticulous restoration, using carefully positioned reinforcing bars combined with a high-strength concrete repair mortar to recreate the missing geometry of the step. This method ensured not only an accurate visual reconstruction but also a long-lasting structural solution built to withstand daily use.
Further complications arose from the staircase construction itself: the landings were only 100mm thick, making them particularly susceptible to stress-related cracking. Each landing required precision cramping to draw the fractured areas back together, followed by specialist repair techniques to secure and stabilise the weakened sections.
Through detailed craftsmanship and a thorough understanding of traditional building methods, MGS successfully restored the staircase to a safe, durable, and visually cohesive condition while respecting the historical character of the property.
MGS followed the structural surveyors report and in turn created weekly reports on progress and methods of repairs for feedback on works.
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Portland Staircase Structural Repairs
September, 2025
Project:
65-69 Linden Gardens, Notting Hill Gate, London
Details:
Three staircases were restored in full during this project, each presenting its own set of challenges. The first staircase had undergone alterations in the 1980s when a lift was installed, resulting in the removal of approximately 90% of its original Portland stone nosings. To reinstate the staircase to its proper condition, we supplied and installed new matching Portland nosings, mechanically fixing them through the face to ensure maximum strength and long-term stability. In total, more than 20 new nosings were replaced.
Many of the landings throughout the property were constructed at just 100mm thick, making them highly prone to cracking. One particularly large landing required structural stitching in two locations using 8mm stainless steel threaded bars. These were anchor-resined into place before being finished with a high-strength concrete repair mortar, allowing the surface to be painted at a later stage.
Additional works included extensive chip repairs and build-ups. Where necessary, stainless steel wire was bonded into the stone to create a secure foundation before applying repair mortar. Larger damaged areas required reinforcement with 6mm stainless steel rods and bars to restore both strength and original form.
Through these methods, each staircase was carefully brought back to a safe, durable, and visually consistent condition.
Walkway / External Step Repair and Fill
October, 2019
Project:
Salisbury House , London , EC2M 5QQ
Details:
This purpose-built office, dating back to 1901, had developed structural movement in its Portland stone entrance walkway. The overhanging section near Liverpool Street showed signs of shifting, prompting MGS to be appointed to carry out essential repairs. Our team secured the structure using a dog cramp to prevent further movement, filled all gaps with anchor resin, and completed the restoration with a Portland premix blend of dust, cement, and lime additives for a seamless finish.
