Brick Repointing
& Mortar Repair
We repair and replace damaged bricks and mortar on both modern and heritage properties.
We also replace vents, chimney pots and damaged or broken bricks. All mortar pointing is carefully colour matched to give a seamless finish. Brick repointing and mortar repair is an alternate option to our tuckpointing services.
What is repointing?
Repointing is the process of repairing and replacing aged mortar in brick and stonework.
Our repointing and mortar repair craftsmanship ensures that repairs blend seamlessly with the existing brickwork and stonework with mortar that is carefully colour matched and mixed to suit.
What causes brick and stonework to degrade?
Brick and stonework are generally tough and long-lasting building materials, but old age can eventually degrade even the toughest materials. There are also a number of factors that can influence the longevity of brick and stonework, including:
Prolonged exposure to wind and rain that can cause rising damp
Excessive salt and moisture from Perth’s proximity to the ocean and rivers
Using mortar that is the wrong strength or consistency
How to repair brick and limestone
Our team of artisans are experts in repairing brick and limestone stonework. Our brick repointing, limestone repointing and mortar repair services along with rising damp and waterproofing services can repair and restore your damaged masonry.
These services not only enhance the structural integrity of stonework to enhance longevity, they also enhance the look and feel, increasing the value of a property.
Signs of damp or wetness Signs of moisture on the walls or floor are a likely indication of water penetrating through damaged mortar (See Rising Damp & Waterproofing for more on how we can help)
Loose bricks Any loose bricks or stones can allow water to penetrate, which can lead to rising damp and structural damage
Loose or missing mortar The surest sign that brick or stonework requires repointing, loose, cracked or missing mortar requires repair to ensure the structural integrity of a wall or chimney.
How to tell if your brick or stonework needs repair
do i need masonry repair?
Check your brickwork for missing mortar (pictured). Missing mortar is a sure sign that your property needs repair. Don’t ignore the signs of damage, the longer you leave it the bigger the job is to repair and restore it.
Our Repointing and Mortar Repair Process
Repointing, or mortar pointing, is an essential process for maintaining the stability, waterproofing, and structural integrity of your brickwork. It helps prevent further deterioration and ensures the longevity of your heritage building.
1: preparation
We begin by carefully removing the old mortar to an appropriate depth using a masonry grinder or an Arbortech mortar saw. The depth typically ranges from 10mm to 20mm, depending on the condition of the mortar. Afterward, we wash out all dust and loose sediment to prepare the surface for new mortar.
If there are cracks that need stitching or bricks with fretted faces that need replacing, this is also addressed during the preparation stage.
2. colour matching
In this stage, we match the colour of the new mortar to the original brick pointing, ensuring a seamless blend with the existing brickwork. If the client wants a bespoke look, we can also create a custom colour to suit the design and aesthetic preferences of the project.
3. application of new mortar
Once the colour is matched, we begin applying the new mortar. The mortar is repointed off a hawk using a nose pick or a mortar pointing gun, depending on the project requirements.
Before the mortar starts to set or harden, we press, rake, or cut it to create the desired finish.
Common finishes and cutting styles include:
Flush cut
Pressed joint
Raked joint
Weather struck
Double cut
Once the mortar has been cut to the desired shape, we brush down the wall to remove any dags or imperfections, ensuring a clean and polished look.
4. acid washing (optional)
Acid washing is an optional stage and may not be suitable for all heritage specifications or pure lime mortars. If selected, we use a diluted hydrochloric acid and water mixture to gently apply with a brush. Afterward, we wash the acid away to neutralize the pH and ensure the wall is safe.
This process helps remove ghosting or unwanted mortar splatters from the repointing process, leaving behind a clean, fresh surface.
Important Note: Careful attention is required when using hydrochloric acid for brick washing. If the acid is too strong, it can damage bricks, causing brick burn or efflorescent staining.
Repointing Before and After Photos
Before brick and limestone repointing
After brick and limestone repointing
BRICK AND MORTAR REPOINTING PHOTO GALLERY
Hear from some of our restoration clients
testimonials
Get in touch for repointing and stonework repairs
We believe our restoration services are second to none in Perth. If you are after quality craftsmanship and personal service call, text, or email us for an obligation-free quote, or to talk about your project.