Repointing brickwork and compatible lime mortar repairs
Repointing renews deteriorated mortar joints between bricks or stones, but choosing a mortar by appearance alone can cause avoidable damage. The right approach starts by understanding the masonry, the original mortar, exposure and the reason the joints have failed. In older South Devon buildings, a hard, dense replacement can behave very differently from softer traditional masonry. Send ADB SW photographs of the affected wall, its location and any damp concerns so we can talk through the repointing work alongside any related building repairs.
Diagnose before removing mortar
Weathered joints are not always the source of a damp patch or a reason to repoint an entire elevation. Water may enter through defective gutters, roof details, cracked render, openings or high ground levels. A careful inspection looks at the pattern and depth of erosion, the condition of the brick or stone, previous repairs and the wall’s exposure. The aim is to distinguish local failure from a broader moisture problem and avoid replacing sound mortar unnecessarily.
On older solid-wall properties, moisture movement through the wall can be part of how the building behaves. Cement-rich pointing applied to soft brick, stone or an originally lime-built wall may be too hard or impermeable for the substrate. This can concentrate weathering in the masonry itself. If the building is listed or in a conservation area, check consent and material expectations before removing or replacing historic fabric.
Match mortar to the wall
Mortar selection should reflect the masonry’s strength, porosity, joint profile and exposure. Traditional lime mortars are often appropriate for older solid masonry because they can accommodate movement and allow moisture to evaporate; modern masonry may call for a different specification. “Lime” is not a single recipe: binder, aggregate, colour, grading and mix all affect appearance and behaviour. A sample panel can help assess texture, colour and finish before the full area is undertaken.
The visible joint profile also changes how rain sheds from the wall and how the elevation looks. Reproducing a suitable existing profile may be more appropriate than introducing a deep or overly smooth joint. Mortar should not be selected solely to match a small dry sample, since its finished colour changes as it cures and weathers. For significant historic work, specialist conservation advice may be needed to establish the right materials and method.
Preparation and workmanship
Sound repointing depends on removing failed mortar carefully without damaging arrises or widening joints unnecessarily. The depth and method of raking out should suit the joint and masonry; aggressive cutting can scar soft brick and create a larger repair than the original defect. Dust and loose material need to be removed, and the substrate prepared in line with the mortar system. The joint is then filled and finished consistently, with attention to curing and protection from unsuitable weather.
Work at height, access, protection of windows and surrounding surfaces, and management of dust should be planned. Mortar should not be allowed to smear across porous masonry and set there, since cleaning can damage the face. The agreed sample, joint profile and extent help prevent disagreements about the appearance. A small test area can reveal whether the mortar and technique suit the wall before proceeding more widely.
Set a clear scope and aftercare
A good written scope identifies the elevation or specific areas, the existing defects, proposed mortar, joint finish, preparation method and any making-good. It should state how access and protection will be handled and whether adjacent repairs, such as gutters or render, are included or excluded. Agree what happens if opening-up reveals loose masonry or a more extensive problem than visible at first inspection.
Start by discussing the wall’s location, the areas needing attention, access arrangements and the proposed materials, then set out those details in the agreed written scope. For a listed building or uncertain historic fabric, establish whether a conservation professional or consent is needed. After completion, follow the mortar supplier’s or specialist’s curing guidance and avoid premature washing, sealing or painting. Keep a record of the material and work for future maintenance. Repointing is not a substitute for fixing a separate route by which water reaches the wall.
Common questions
Should old brick always be repointed in cement?
No. Mortar should be selected for the masonry and existing construction. Hard cement can be unsuitable for softer traditional brick or stone; have the wall assessed before choosing a mix.
Does repointing cure damp?
Only if failed joints are a relevant route for water. Gutters, roof details, ground levels, render and other causes should also be checked before settling on a repair.
Can I repoint just a small area?
Sometimes a local repair is appropriate, but its extent and finish should be assessed against the surrounding wall so the repair is compatible and durable.
Do listed buildings need approval for repointing?
Requirements depend on the building and proposed work. Check with the local planning authority or a conservation professional before removing historic mortar.
How much does repointing cost?
The area, joint condition, masonry, mortar choice, access and scaffold requirements affect the price. Agree the extent and a compatible material specification before comparing written quotes; a general square-metre figure cannot establish the work required.
Tell us about your project
Send the property details and the work you have in mind so the scope can be discussed before a quote is agreed.