This appears to be one of the common maintenance processes for those brick walls or any kind of structure with bricks, whose main purpose is to ensure that the structure is firm again and the point of the bricks is appealing to the eye.
Through time, the mortar joints applied between bricks fail because of the effects of various weather factors and humidity, leading to poor bricks’ stability and aesthetics. Repairing refers to a process whereby damaged or worn-out mortar is physically dismantled and replaced with new mortar for better structural integrity of bricks.
What is Repointing?
When constructing with bricks, such as for walls and building structures, it is known that bricks are vulnerable to damage as a result of weather incidences and any other form of shocks that reduce the strength of mortar joints.
Repointing is useful in jointly repairing the eventual cracking, gaps, and declining mortar. It also increases the physical rigidity of the structure and defends against infiltration of water, which would otherwise cause internal damage and the formation of mold.
Signs That Repointing Is Needed
Cracked or Crumbling Mortar: When there is evidence of faded or severely worn joints, or evident cracks, then there is likely to be a need to re-point in order to halt the decay.
Water Infiltration: Mortar joint not acting as a barrier as expected: If there are signs of stains or dampness on interior walls, particularly where brickwork is present, then it shows that the mortar joints are no longer effective in preventing water penetration.
Brick Movement: Sometimes, the easiest way to identify failed mortar is the loose bricks or spaces between bricks that signal it might require replacement.
Process of Repointing
Assessment: This requires a professional to conduct a survey that estimates the degree of the mortar’s deterioration and establish which part of the wall requires repointing.
Preparation: The existing mortar is then safely teased out whether by means of chisels or grinding equipment in a way that does not harm the contacting brick.
Mixing New Mortar: If the mortar is to be laid for the first time, then it is required to prepare it in a way that is similar to the original one in terms of colour, texture and its minimum strength.
Repointing: The actual construction of the masonry units requires the use of fresh mortar that should be filled and compacted into the joints by special tools.
Finishing: Mortar joints are tool finished and the mortar washed off the bricks leaving smooth and neat surfaces on the masonry.
Materials Used
Mortar: Repointing calls for use of good quality mortar, which includes sand, cement, and water with some other material such as lime, for enhanced firmness and elasticity.
Tools: These accessories consist of pointing trowels to apply and sculpt the mortar, jointers, and brushes also used in the process.
Benefits of Repointing
Enhanced Structural Integrity: Repointing consolidates masonry joints and reduces the risk of damages while putting off the likelihood of structural deterioration in buildings.
Improved Aesthetic Appeal: New mortar also brings the face value of the brickwork and returns the looks of the structure to its glory as newer structures appear more attractive.
Long-Term Cost Savings: Timely repointing also helps conserve the lifespan of brick structures, and therefore, in the long run, it reduces the extent of repairs or replacements being made.
Hiring a Professional
However, if only a small region is being re-pointed, then it is advisable that it is done in a DIY manner; however, for larger areas, it is recommended that one hires a mason or a contractor to do the job so that the best method and materials are utilized.
Repointing can be done effectively by personnel who have the professional expertise to develop a plan that will be most appropriate to deliver the goal of effective repointing to your property.
Raking and pointing it is the process, which is of immense importance when it comes to repairing and maintaining the structures with bricks in terms of strength, aesthetic values and durability.
It is thus important for owners of these properties to act swiftly when they observe deteriorated mortar joints and facilitate the correct approaches of intervening to save their buildings and their magnificent outlook for numerous more years.
