Repointing for Brooklyn brickwork, with the mortar matched in strength and colour so the repair does not stand out or cause new damage.
Every property is different, so the starting point is always a look at the building rather than a price over the phone. Once we have seen it you get the scope, the materials and the figures in writing, and nothing begins until you have agreed to them.
When might you need it?
These are the signs owners usually notice first.
- Mortar joints that have receded, crumbled or washed out
- Cracked, spalling or loose brick faces
- Parapet walls that lean, bow or have open joints along the top
- Rusted steel lintels lifting and cracking the masonry above
- Water marks, salt deposits and damp showing through interior walls
What the work involves
- Close inspection of the wall, the joints and the structural details
- Raking out failed mortar to a sound depth
- Repointing with a mortar matched to the original in strength and colour
- Cutting out and replacing damaged brick with a close match
- Rebuilding parapets and copings where the wall has moved
- Removing and replacing failed lintels with proper support
- Cleaning down and removing debris from site
How the process works
Site assessment
We look at the elevation, the joints and any movement, and work out how far the problem actually extends.
Scope and method
The repair method, the mortar specification and the figures are set out for you in writing.
Protection and setup
Access, scaffolding and protection for windows, paving and planting are arranged first.
Construction
The masonry work is carried out in sections with progress updates.
Final review
We walk the elevation with you and check the finished joints together.
What you get
- A wall that sheds water rather than holding it
- Structural details brought back to sound condition
- Repairs matched to the existing brick and mortar rather than patched over
- Work that keeps the building looking like itself
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my building needs pointing?
Run a key along a mortar joint. If it crumbles away easily, or if you can see daylight or open recesses, the joints are past their working life.
Will the new mortar match?
We match colour and, more importantly, strength. A mortar harder than the brick causes damage, so the match is specified rather than guessed.
Do you replace lintels without taking the wall down?
In most cases yes. The masonry above is supported temporarily while the lintel is cut out and replaced.
This service is part of Masonry and Facade Restoration.
