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Brickwork Pointing Contractors
With over 40 years of experience in brickwork pointing, we provide our services for the domestic and commercial sectors. Brickwork Pointing is a professional brick & stone pointing company that can cater to all your pointing requirements. Our polite and friendly pointing contractors have great experience and expertise in all aspects of brickwork & stone pointing, repointing, & repairs. If you’re unsure of the correct solution for your property, look no further and book a FREE onsite consultation with one of our qualified pointers. Get in touch today for a free quote.
Mortar Pointing/Repointing
MORTAR POINTING SPECIALISTS
Mortar pointing, also known as brick pointing or repointing, is the process of renewing or repairing the mortar joints between bricks or stones in a masonry structure, such as a wall or a chimney. Over time, the mortar between bricks can deteriorate due to weathering, temperature changes, and other factors. Mortar pointing is necessary to maintain the structural integrity of the masonry and prevent water penetration, which can lead to further damage.
The process of mortar pointing involves removing the deteriorated or damaged mortar from the joints and replacing it with fresh mortar. This helps to fill any gaps and cracks, ensuring a secure bond between the bricks or stones and enhancing the appearance of the masonry.
The mortar used in pointing is typically a mixture of cement, sand, and water.
The proportions of these ingredients may vary based on the specific requirements of the project and the type of masonry being repaired. The color of the mortar is also matched to the existing mortar to ensure a seamless and aesthetically pleasing finish.
Lime Pointing/Repointing
LIME POINTING SPECIALISTS | What is Lime Pointing?
When pointing or repointing a house today, we use a sand and cement mix (mortar) for the pointing. It is usually mixed at a ratio of 4/1 sand/cement and is suitable for the majority of jobs that we take on. However, modern cement can contain components that are detrimental to older building materials, IE brick or stone, which is where lime mortar pointing becomes a useful option.
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A lime mortar is a mixture of lime, water, and sand. It was used as a pointing material until the late twenties, when more advanced technology became available and sand & cement mix mortar became the standard used in the construction world.
Brickwork Repair
BRICKWORK REPAIR SPECIALISTS
Brickwork repairs can be carried out in multiple ways to fix a long list of small and serious problems. Replacing mortar in a brick wall when damaged can improve its long-term integrity, just as much as replacing cracked and damaged bricks at an early stage is always the best way.
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Brickwork in general is extremely durable and hardwearing, though will eventually give in to the tests of time and bad weather. Therefore, we highly recommend frequent property inspections, to detect instances where brickwork wall repairs may be needed.
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Some examples of these include the following:
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Cracked and Damaged Brickwork
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A few cracked or damaged bricks may not seem much to worry about but could also indicate an issue with the structure of your brick wall. you must understand that brick wall crack repair costs are far cheaper than rebuilding the full wall if the problem is left to get worse. Repairing cracked and damaged bricks is very simple and cost-effective, just as long as the problem is caught at an early enough stage.
Lintel Repair & Replacement
Have you noticed any cracks above your windows and doors? This can be a sign that the lintel supporting your brickwork above could be damaged. If this is the case you will need to consider repairing the lintel if possible and worse case lintel replacement.
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Lintels are installed above windows and doors to support and carry the weight above. If they start to show any signs of damage then the building may be at risk of falling down.
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What is a Lintel?
A lintel is a structural support that is designed to span across a window or door opening to carry the weight above. Lintels are made from different materials depending on the age or type of the building.
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In older properties, you will find that most lintels found will be stone timber or steel.
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In modern properties, you will only ever find concrete & steel lintels also known as cantic lintels.
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Timber Lintel Repair
Timber lintels are often found in older buildings and can last just as long as concrete and steel lintels however, they are prone to being damaged by dampness. Damp issues can lead to dry rot and wet rot. To fix this problem, an engineer will have to replace them with helical tie bars.
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Metal Lintel Repair
Metal lintels can eventually corrode over time which means that they will expand & crack. To fix this you will need a bricklayer to replace the existing lintel or inject resin into the lintel to fill cracks.
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Brick Lintel Repair
rick lintels and brick arch lintels and repaired using helical ties. The helical bars are stuck together with resin grout, so it creates a strong masonry structure.
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Concrete Lintel Repair
Concrete Lintels have steel rods running through the centre of them for extra support. They can be damaged by damp penetration and the steel bars can corrode thus weakening the lintel. To fix this you need a bricklayer to prop and remove the existing concrete lintel and replace it with a new one & patch brickwork where needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What is brickwork pointing?Brickwork pointing, also known as brick jointing or repointing, is the process of renewing the mortar joints between bricks in a masonry wall. It involves removing deteriorated or damaged mortar and replacing it with fresh mortar to strengthen the wall, improve its appearance, and protect it from weathering.
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Why is brickwork pointing necessary?Over time, the mortar between bricks can degrade due to weather exposure, temperature changes, and other environmental factors. Pointing is necessary to maintain the structural integrity of the wall and prevent moisture penetration, which can lead to further damage and deterioration.
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When should brickwork pointing be done?Brickwork pointing should be done when the mortar joints show signs of deterioration, such as crumbling, cracking, or gaps. Additionally, if you notice water seepage through the wall or loose bricks, it's a clear sign that repointing is needed.
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How is brickwork pointing done?Brickwork pointing involves the following steps: a. Remove the old mortar from between the bricks using appropriate tools. b. Clean the joints and remove debris. c. Prepare the mortar mix, ensuring it matches the existing mortar in composition and color. d. Apply the fresh mortar into the joints using pointing trowels or specialized tools. e. Shape the mortar to achieve the desired pointing style (flush, recessed, tuck-pointing, etc.). f. Clean any excess mortar from the bricks' surface. g. Allow the mortar to cure properly.
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What are the different types of brickwork pointing?Several types of brickwork pointing techniques include flush pointing, recessed pointing, tuck pointing, bucket handle pointing, struck pointing, V pointing, beaded pointing, grapevine pointing, ribbon pointing, and others.
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How long does brickwork pointing last?The longevity of brickwork pointing depends on various factors, including the quality of materials used, weather conditions, and the skill of the pointing work. Well-done pointing can last for several decades.
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Can I do brickwork pointing myself?Brickwork pointing is a skilled task that requires experience and knowledge of proper techniques. While minor repairs may be possible for DIY enthusiasts, it's generally recommended to hire a professional mason for larger and more extensive repointing projects to ensure the best results.
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How much does brickwork pointing cost?The cost of brickwork pointing varies depending on factors like the size of the area to be repointed, the pointing style chosen, the accessibility of the site, and the local labor rates. It's best to get quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices.
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Does brickwork pointing require any maintenance?Properly done brickwork pointing should not require frequent maintenance. However, it's essential to keep an eye on the mortar joints over time and address any signs of deterioration promptly to prevent more extensive repairs.
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Can I paint over brickwork pointing?While it's possible to paint over brickwork pointing, it's essential to use breathable masonry paint to avoid trapping moisture within the wall. Painting should only be done after the mortar has cured sufficiently. It's recommended to consult a professional for proper painting techniques. Remember, brickwork pointing is a crucial aspect of maintaining the integrity and appearance of masonry walls. If you have specific questions or concerns about your brickwork, it's best to consult with a qualified mason or contractor for expert advice and solutions.
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North West and surrounding areas