Instructor: Jon Owens
Cost: $75
Have wet/damp brick walls?
Learn the introductory basics on how to steward your historic structure!
When it comes to maintaining historic masonry, one rule reigns supreme: keep the building dry. This foundational workshop explores the invisible yet powerful role moisture plays in the life and longevity of solid structural masonry buildings. Participants will gain a clear understanding of how water moves through stone, brick, and mortar—and how improper repairs or modern materials can unintentionally trap moisture and accelerate decay.
Through discussion and case studies, we’ll examine why old buildings “breathe,” and how to help them continue doing so for generations to come. Topics include:
Moisture Fundamentals: How water travels not only downward but upward through capillary action—and how this natural process affects walls, foundations, and finishes. Identifying sources of moisture—from leaking roofs to poor grading—and employing simple, sustainable fixes that align with the building’s original design.
Historic Lime Mortars and Plaster: Understanding the role of earth mortars, lime pointing, and the delicate balance between foundation and soil. Why is it so important to use historic materials on a historic structure.
Keeping the Home Healthy: Why a “breathable” home matters and how using historic earth mortars contributes to a clean, eco-friendly home!
As Jon Owens likes to say, “A historic building must have a good hat, good boots, and a raincoat to keep its head, feet, and body dry.” Participants will leave with the knowledge to recognize early warning signs of moisture damage, make informed material choices, and care for historic masonry in a way that honors its structure and story.
Appropriate for students aged 18+. All ages are welcome.
Financial assistance available, if needed. Please email Info@LancasterWorkshop.com.
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Moisture Fundamentals: How water travels not only downward but upward through capillary action—and how this natural process affects walls, foundations, and finishes. Identifying sources of moisture—from leaking roofs to poor grading—and employing simple, sustainable fixes that align with the building’s original design.
Historic Lime Mortars and Plaster: Understanding the role of earth mortars, lime pointing, and the delicate balance between foundation and soil. Why is it so important to use historic materials on a historic structure.
Keeping the Home Healthy: Why a “breathable” home matters and how using historic earth mortars contributes to a clean, eco-friendly home!
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For more than 30 years, Jon Owens led his own historic preservation firm specializing in masonry restoration, slate and tile roofing, and custom millwork. His craftsmanship can be seen on projects ranging from the 1796 Cunningham House and Christ Lutheran Church in Gettysburg to Washington, D.C. landmarks like the Blair House and Potomac Annex — and countless homes and historic sites in between.
He brings not only deep technical expertise, but a genuine love for old buildings and the stories they hold. Jon is passionate about preserving historic structures using renewable, healthy materials that allow buildings to breathe and last. Known for his integrity, care, and commitment to doing the job right, he’s eager to share his knowledge and help others learn how to repair even the most challenging historic structures with confidence and respect.
Jon is also the founder of Lancaster Lime Works in Lancaster, PA — a company dedicated to producing and promoting 100% natural, breathable lime mortars, plasters, and finishes for historic buildings. Through Lancaster Lime Works, Jon has helped homeowners, contractors, and preservationists across the country repair old structures using time-honored, sustainable methods and materials.
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We know life happens! If you need to cancel or reschedule your workshop, here’s how it works:
More than 7 days before class → Full refund (minus a 10% admin fee) or a 100% credit toward another workshop (good for 6 months).
1 day before class → No refund or credits.
No-shows → Not eligible for refund or credit.
If we cancel a workshop → You’ll get a full refund or a 100% workshop credit — your choice.
*Special note: If you’re sick or have an emergency, please reach out at least 24-48 hours before class. We’ll do our best to offer a credit or transfer.
To cancel or request a change, email us at Info@LancasterWorkshop.com or call 717-478-4199.