Repointing becomes necessary when the existing pointing work on a masonry wall becomes defective and no longer provides a defence against water entering the wall. When pointing deteriorates to the extent that water freely penetrates the external skin there is an increased chance of damp in the property, the process of frost weathering is worsened and the chance of wall tie failure is more likely. When repointing a traditionally constructed brick wall the first step is to rake out the mortar between the bricks to a depth of approximately 20mm. Once the dust has been washed out new mortar is trowelled into place.
Carrying out repointing work
In some older or historic properties lime mortar is used to protect the structure as a sacrificial component, being weaker than the surrounding brickwork and cheaper to repair or replace. It also wicks moisture away from the masonry allowing it to evaporate and has self-healing properties to increase the life of the wall.
Walls can be repointed in patches or as a whole elevation. We mix the repointing mortar to best as possible match the colour and texture of the existing pointing. The main types of repointing we do are ‘bucket handle’, ‘weather struck’, ‘birds beak’ and ‘recessed’ but we can do others on request. Repointing work is often carried out in conjunction with other repair work such as helical bar installation and underpinning.
Please contact us if you have any concerns about faulty pointing on your property or any other structural defect that may be worrying you.