Repointing is a budget-friendly option and a smart way to shield your residential and commercial properties for years. No matter how budget-friendly it is, homeowners often try DIY repointing because it mitigates the labor cost and saves money. Although hiring a professional to restore the masonry in a complex situation is recommended, DIY can only be successful when the repairs are minor. Early cost estimates of materials used and other miscellaneous costs help you understand how much it costs to repoint brick structures.
Let’s have a detailed look at the estimated cost of DIY repointing and some of the innovative spending strategies:
List of Accurately Estimated Repointing Costs
Here is the breakdown of the project materials and scope with accurately estimated costs that will help you sort out the repointing process efficiently:
Assess the Project Size & Complexity
- Evaluate the total project area where repointing is needed.
- Measure the height and length with accuracy.
- Calculate the square-foot area.
- Identify the project’s scope, whether just fixing or full repointing.
Understanding the full scope is key. See how hard it is to repoint a house to get a realistic picture of the effort involved.
Required Tools Checklist
The following are some of the basic tools that are required to DIY repoint your home.
| Masonry tools | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| Heavy-duty chisel | $10 – $20 |
| Lump Hammer | $15 – $25 |
| Groove cleaner | $8 – $15 |
| Joint sealer tool | $10 – $20 |
| Mortar-holding tray | $12 – $18 |
| Dusting Brush | $6 – $12 |
| Safety essentials | $15 – $30 |
| Cement tub | $10 – $20 |
Note: These prices are not fixed and may vary depending on store, brand, and location.
Masonry Mix Components
| Masonry supplies | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Factory-prepared mortar | $20 – $40/bag |
| Traditional cement base | $8 – $15/bag |
| Fine-grade sand | $5 – $12/bag |
| Masonry lime | $10 – $18/bag |
Note: These prices are not fixed and may vary depending on store, brand, and location.
Additional Upgrade Options
a. Color additives
The patched or repaired area should match the original color, so color additives are used here, which cost you nearly $5-$15 for each packet.
b. Protective coatings
After repointing, DIYers prefer to seal coats with water-resistant sealants for enhanced durability and extra protection. These sealers also cost you around $20-$50 per container.
Sealants and proper pointing also improve energy performance. Learn how brick pointing can reduce energy costs.
c. Cleaning materials
Cleaning agents, protective covers, and rags can cost around $10-$30.
Smart Spending Strategies
- You should opt for renting tools if you don’t need them again, or the project is a one-time project to avoid costly purchases and make it an economical process.
- Follow the step-by-step process to apply proper techniques and avoid trial-and-error expenses.
- Get the mortar in stock or large quantities if the project demands multiple repairs; it also saves money.
- Always look up the weather forecast and check which season is ideal for repointing so it doesn’t require a process redo and prevents poor mortar bonding.
Times to Avoid DIY
- DIY is a budget-conscious process, but it’s better to leave this job to highly certified professionals for accurate results.
- Even the advantages of cutting costs may exceed the limit due to the efforts and investments in DIY.
- If the structural issue is major, like shifting of walls or significant water damage, the professionals should promptly address it.
- Historic properties require sensitive repointing work; it is advised not to DIY there because a small mistake can lead to permanent damage.
Historic buildings require extra care. Read how repointing can be done safely on historic properties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is better to do DIY repointing only if the project is on a small scale. Estimating the cost for a DIY repointing doesn’t require much. Still, from gathering tools to buying mortars, paints, protective sealants, and safety equipment, it may overshadow the money you thought of saving from DIY. DIY has both advantages and disadvantages.
Sardar Restoration Corp. proudly serves every corner of NYC, including the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, and Queens. Our services are designed to meet your needs, providing top-quality solutions wherever you are. Check our service areas to see how we can assist you in your location.
Contact us today at (+1) 917-355-8556 or sardarrestoration@gmail.com, or visit us at 2770 Fish Ave, Bronx, NY 10469, United States.
FAQs
Can I repoint brickwork myself, or should I call a pro?
Yes, you can! If the repairs are minor, having a DIY experience for tool-based learning is okay. Still, it is obvious to call a professional when there is significant structural damage, as large-scale projects are complex.
To weigh your decision properly, check our full post on whether repointing is a DIY job.
Do you offer repointing services in industrial areas with maintenance guidelines?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. offers repointing services for residential, commercial, and industrial properties with proper maintenance guidelines and follow-ups. DIY repointing can cost you around $200 to $600, including materials, tools, and others, but it’s recommended to keep in mind the additional charges.
Will DIY repointing last as long as professional work?
It depends on the quality of the repointing work! But if the DIY repointing is done with proper & innovative techniques, it can last up to 20 years.
For comparison, see how long professionally done brick pointing typically lasts.
What happens if I mess up? Can you fix the DIY repointing work?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. offers complete, comprehensive repointing services with excellent fixing solutions and brings life to what you envisioned about your DIY repointing work.
Most failed DIY projects happen due to avoidable errors. See common mistakes when repointing brickwork before you start.
