What Does It Mean To Repoint Brick?

The maintenance and repair of the brick façade is crucial for the longevity of the built fabric of Manhattan and the maintenance of iconic New York City architecture. After some time, the mortar joints of the building will crack and allow water penetration, structural failure and high cost in repair. Based on years of experience mending broken bricks, Sardar Restoration Corp performs repointing services for bracketing structures in Manhattan and the other boroughs of NYC. Let’s explore this in detail:

Difference Between Brick Pointing And Repointing Brick

Here is the chart differentiating between brick pointing and repointing. To understand repointing, you must first learn the following: “What is brick pointing?” in detail.

How To Repoint Brick?

Repointing brickwork helps maintain the longevity and aesthetic value of the structure made from the bricks. First, ensure that the building’s temperature is within the legal range for cured mortar, usually between 40°F and 100°F, preferably for two to three days. Any other special guide should be obtained from the manufacturer’s manual.

Preparation and Materials

Steps to Repoint Brickwork

Step 1: Assess Mortar Depth

Measure the width of the brick joints to determine how deep the old mortar needs to be removed. Use the following guidelines:

Joint Width Mortar Removal Depth

Step 2: Set the Raking

Cut a piece of pin corresponding to the number of measurements taken and fit it to the raking tool as needed.

Step 3: Remove Vertical Mortar

Start with the head and then move to the next subhead, and so on. Then, use the raking tool to rake out the mortar from vertical joints. It is advisable to brush the joints occasionally with a masonry brush to clear deposits on the surface and get a good view of the appropriate joint.

Step 4: Eliminate horizontal mortar joints

Do it on the horizontal joints to remove excess material after clearing the vertical joints. It starts from the head, and images are built from the head down through the body. Masonry brush- use it to sweep the joints often.

Step 5: Clean the Joints

Sometimes, some mortar may stick to the joints and be hard to remove; it can be scraped off using a wire brush. After this, the joint should be cleaned using a masonry brush to accept the fresh joint mortar.

Step 6: Mix the Mortar

The mortar is prepared in a bucket with water to eventually achieve a peanut butter-like consistency. It’s preferable to lay down Type O mortar for pointing the non-structural elements since it’s softer and also doesn’t damage old bricks.

Step 7: Apply Mortar to Horizontal Joints

• Scoop a small amount of mortar onto the hawk board.
• Hold the hawk below the joint and use the pointing trowel to press and tamp mortar into the horizontal joints.

Step 8: Apply Mortar to Vertical Joints

Follow the same process for the shorter vertical joints, ensuring they are filled and compacted.

Step 9: Let the Mortar Partially Dry

Let the mortar set for about 30-45 minutes. Using your finger, probe the surface of the consistency to check how firm it gets when pressed. If the mortar does not sink to the level of the block joint, it is good for jointing the blocks.

Step 10: Strike the Joints

Use the edge of the margin trowel to smooth the mortar, shaping it to protrude slightly from the brick face.

Step 11: Final Repointing

• For vertical joints, press the trowel into the mortar and slide it along the joint to smooth and compress.
• Repeat this process for the horizontal joints.

Step 12: Brush Away Excess Mortar

Use a masonry brush to remove excess mortar from the brick surface gently. Be careful not to disturb the newly applied mortar.

When To Repoint Brick?

Repointing is necessary to maintain the stability and appearance of brick structures. Watch for these signs that your mortar needs attention:

• Mortar is breaking apart or crumbling.
• Tiny holes have developed in the mortar joints.
• Cracks appear, disrupting the smooth surface.
• Erosion of the mortar has exceeded 1/4 inch in depth.
• Mortar is pulling away from the bricks, leaving gaps.

Essential Safety Measures

When working on brick repointing, it is important to contain any risks that harm the workers. Personal protective measures that must always be worn include eye protection and dust masks to avoid too much exposure to dust. Wear gloves when working with fresh mortar since the lime is hydrated and easily scratches the skin.

Tools You’ll Need

Prepare these tools and materials to ensure efficient and effective repointing:

• A joint raker with wheels for precision work
• Masonry and wire brushes for cleaning joints
• Hammer for chiseling away old mortar
• Hawk board to hold fresh mortar
• Measuring tape for accuracy
• Bucket for mixing mortar
• Garden hose for cleaning the work area
• Drop cloth to protect nearby surfaces
• Personal protective equipment, including gloves, dust mask, and safety glasses

What Happens If You Don’t Repoint Brickwork?

Procrastination in repointing brickwork is a chain that results in a series of deteriorating effects on the structural aspect, aesthetic value, and durability of the brickwork structure. Let me explain in detail what can happen:

Water Infiltration

Damaged mortar allows water to penetrate through the brick joints, which can seep into the underlying structure. Over time, this moisture can cause:

• Damp walls, leading to mold and mildew growth inside the property.
• Freeze-thaw damage in colder climates, as trapped water expands and contracts with temperature changes, causing further cracking and deterioration.

Structural Instability

Mortar holds the bricks together, ensuring the stability of the structure. When mortar crumbles or erodes:

• It may also cause bricks to become loose, slide, or even drop off, mainly because the walls may be crucial support structures.
• The overall structures lose their strength and, in extreme cases, collapse, as evidenced by their collapse when experiencing severe force.

Increased Repair Costs

Neglecting repointing leads to more extensive damage over time. What begins as minor mortar erosion could escalate into:

• Exchanging certain sections of the wall or even the bricks included in it.
• Examples include consideration of structural repairs, which are incredibly costly compared to mere pointing.

Aesthetic Degradation

Eroded mortar and loose bricks can make the structure look old and poorly maintained. This can:

• Lower property value.
• It affects the even worse curbs for businesses or anyone with a house to sell.

Compromised Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Gaps in mortar joints allow air to pass through, reducing the structure’s thermal efficiency. This leads to:

• Higher heating and cooling costs.
• A less comfortable indoor environment.

Pest Intrusion

Cracks and gaps in the mortar provide entry points for insects and small animals, such as ants, wasps, and even rodents. Once inside, these pests can cause additional damage and be difficult to remove.

Preserve Manhattan’s Historic Brick Walls with Sardar Restoration Corp – Serving NYC and All Boroughs!

Brick-and-mortar buildings are part of the New York City landscape, particularly Manhattan, which houses some of the city’s most famous landmarks. However, aging and environmental factors erode the structure of the buildings. Sardar Restoration Corp has specialized in repointing brick walls to maintain such structures’ aesthetic and structural value.

Why Choose Sardar Restoration Corp in Manhattan?

• Maintain Manhattan’s Charm: Our expert team carefully matches mortar to restore historic aesthetics.
• Durable Solutions: Replace crumbling mortar to prevent water infiltration and structural damage.
• Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Repointed walls seal drafts, improving insulation and reducing energy costs.
• Borough-Wide Coverage: Proudly serving all five boroughs—Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Manhattan—plus NYC neighborhoods.

Our Unique Approach to Manhattan and NYC’s Brickwork

With extensive experience across Manhattan and NYC’s boroughs, we understand the city’s architectural diversity. From pre-war townhouses to industrial buildings, we use precision and care to deliver unmatched results that blend craftsmanship and longevity.

Schedule Your Manhattan Repointing Service Today!

Protect the integrity of Manhattan’s historic structures with Sardar Restoration Corp.

Wherever you are, our services are tailored to meet local needs. Contact us today at (+1) 917-355-8556 or sardarrestoration@gmail.com, or visit us at 2770 Fish Ave, Bronx, NY 10469, United States. Let us bring excellence to your next project!

FAQs

Can you repoint bricks yourself?

While it’s possible to attempt DIY repointing, it’s a complex task best entrusted to professionals for durable, high-quality results.

What are the common mistakes when repointing brickwork?

Errors such as using the wrong mortar mix or improper joint filling can lead to costly issues down the line.

Is it expensive to repoint brick?

Repointing is a cost-effective alternative to major repairs, though the overall price can vary based on the project size.

Is it worth repointing a house?

Repointing not only improves your property’s aesthetic appeal but also extends its structural integrity, making it a valuable investment.

How does repointing prevent water damage?

Repointing seals gaps in the mortar, preventing moisture infiltration and protecting the integrity of your property.

Can repointing be done on historic buildings without damage?

Yes, when done correctly, repointing preserves the historical value of buildings, maintaining both form and function.

What are the signs of bad mortar that indicate repointing is required?

Signs include cracked, loose, or missing mortar and visible gaps or water stains.