What is Brick Pointing?
Pointing or brick pointing is the process of applying fresh mortar to the joints between bricks in order to maintain the structural integrity of a masonry wall and to improve its appearance. Mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and water that is used to bind together bricks or other masonry units.
The type of mortar used for brick pointing depends on the application, as well as the weather conditions and the type of brick being used. For example, softer bricks may require a different type of mortar than harder bricks. Weather conditions also play a role in choosing the right mortar, as colder temperatures may require a different mix than warmer temperatures.
Brick-pointing is typically done every few years, as needed. It is important to inspect the condition of your mortar joints regularly and to repair any cracks or gaps as soon as possible. Allowing mortar joints to deteriorate can weaken the overall structure of a wall and lead to more serious damage.
If you are unsure about how to properly point bricks, it is best to hire a professional masonry contractor to do the job for you. They will have the experience and knowledge necessary to ensure that the job is done correctly. Paramount Pointing is a company offering pointing as well as across the entire UK.
Different types of Pointing
Flush Pointing
The first type of pointing is called Flush pointing, and it involves pushing mortar into the edges and then, neatly trimming them with a trowel to smooth out a flat edge. It is not always the best-looking method but it ensures durability and keeps out dust and water. For this reason, this is one of the most common methods used.
Recessed Pointing
In this situation, the edges of the mortar are pressed back by 5mm or more. A suitable tool maintains the face of the pointing vertical while the plaster is applied. This method provides an excellent aesthetic appearance.
Beaded Pointing
A convex edge is used to create it. It’s made of steel or iron and has a concave edge. Although it provides a nice appearance, it is more fragile than other varieties when compared.
Struck Pointing
The face of the pointing is kept steeply inclined, with its top edge pressed inside the face by 10mm, allowing water to flow easily out.
Rubbed, Grooved or Keyed Pointing
A groove is carved on the mid-height of a flush pointing knife by a pointing tool, hence this is also known as flush pointing with a groove. It has an excellent appeal.
Tuck Pointing
In this example, the raked junction is filled first with mortar that comes to a smooth finish with the face.
While the wet pressed mortar is green, a groove or channel with a width of 5mm and a depth of 3mm is carved in the centre of the groove.
After the groove has been created, white cement putty is pressed into it and held projecting beyond the adjacent face by 3 mm. Bastard pointing or half tuckpointing is what you get if the expansion is done in mortar.
V Pointing
This type of pointing is done with a V-groove to create a V shape in the mortar.
How is it Done?
Remove old mortar and clean bricks
When a specialist starts repointing bricks, the first step is for them to remove the old, damaged mortar from the joints. This is done using a chisel and hammer or a power tool like an angle grinder. Once all of the old mortar has been removed, the joints are cleaned out and any debris is cleared away.
Mix new mortar and apply
The next step is to mix up the new mortar. The type of mortar used will depend on the type of bricks being used, as well as the climate and exposure to the elements as well as the desired appearance. Once the new mortar is mixed, it is applied to the joints using a trowel.
The finish
After the new mortar has been applied, it is smoothed down and finished off with a pointed tool. The joints are then left to dry for a few days before being sealed.
Why is it Important?
Brick repointing is important because it repairs and restores mortar joints in masonry construction. Over time, weathering and decay can cause the mortar joints to become loose and damaged. Repointing restores the joints to their original condition, making the wall more durable and weather-resistant.
Additionally, repointing can improve the appearance of your brick walls by giving them a clean, fresh look. It can also help prevent further damage from occurring by sealing off any cracks or gaps that might allow water or pests to enter.
Finally, repointing can extend the life of your brick walls by protecting them from the elements and preventing further deterioration.
When should I have my bricks repointed?
When you should have bricks repointed depends on a number of factors, such as the age of your home, the type of mortar used, the climate, and whether or not there are any cracks or gaps in the mortar.
If you live in an area with a lot of freeze-thaw cycles, for example, you may need to have your bricks repointed more often than someone who lives in a more stable climate.
Similarly, if your home is older and was built with a softer mortar, it may need to be repointed more often than a newer home built with a stronger mortar.
There are a few signs that you should look for that indicate it’s time to have your bricks repointed:
- Cracks or gaps in the mortar
- Crumbling or flaking mortar
- Gaps between the bricks and the mortar
- Water damage
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to have your bricks repointed as soon as possible. Allowing the cracks and gaps to remain unrepaired can cause further damage to your home, and may even lead to structural problems.
How much does it cost?
The cost of brick repointing varies depending on a number of factors, such as the size of your home, the number of bricks that need to be repointed, and the type of mortar used as well as the area that you live in.
In general, you can expect to pay between £50 and £60 per square meter for typical brickwork and between £60 and £100 per square meter for stone walls.
Approximate prices to repoint the front or side of a house could cost between £1,750 and £2,250 per property or between £4,000 and £5,000 for a semi-detached house.
However, if you only have a few bricks that need to be repointed, the cost will be much less, and there are a lot of factors that can change the price of your quote.
Conclusion
Brick-pointing is the process of applying fresh mortar to the joints between bricks in order to maintain the structural integrity of a masonry wall and to improve its appearance. Mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and water used to bind together bricks or other masonry units. Contact us today for points no matter where you are in the UK.
