When it comes to masonry repairs and restorations, the most affordable and time-tested method is repointing. Repointing is a construction technique that involves raking out old mortar and installing freshly made, compatible mortar in its place. It is important to keep proper maintenance and regular upkeep of your masonry in order to make it stay for decades in good condition. Timely repointing can prevent several types of destruction in your masonry. Make sure to identify the signs that tell you you need to repoint as soon as possible to avoid the risk of hefty repairs.
In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the risks that come with the delay in repointing work and what the consequences of it are:
Water Encroachment
When the mortar gets old or eroded, it starts falling, which means the brickwork or mortar causes breaches and triggers fractures. Due to this, it allows air and moisture to enter the masonry. Here are some of the consequences of water encroachment in the masonry:
- Swollen plaster and cracked paintwork
- Moisture-induced microbial growth
- Weakening of the framework
- Ice damage leading to structural movement
Foundation Jeopardy
The main role of repointing is to give resilience to your brick structures and maintain structural integrity, but with time, mortar starts deteriorating and loses its strength, which weakens the structure.
Here are some of the threats of mortar degradation:
- Leaning of brick structures
- Collapsing of walls
- Misalignment of interior bricks
- Unstable foundations and base
Increased Repair Investments
Neglecting the repairs can turn into a big financial risk, as the delay in repointing leads to major restorations and repairs. It’s better to address it on time rather than have the damage on a large surface. Here’s an estimated price list given for repointing work orders:
| Work order | Budget Estimate (Per Sq. Ft.) |
|---|---|
| On-time brickwork repointing | $5–$12 |
| Damaged brick replacement | $20–$35 |
| Complete wall replacements | $40–$60+ |
Drop in Aesthetics & Property Value
The deteriorated mortar can result in a bad visual appearance of your property’s aesthetics, which risks the devaluation of your property. Here are some of the signs that lead to major problems:
- Damp patches and staining on the walls
- Façade brick dislodgement
- Bricks that are not properly stacked and misaligned
See how brick repointing can improve property value and why delaying it might cost you more in the long run.
Insect Infestations
Mortar that has been damaged has voids and openings in the walls, which make it an easily accessible pathway for rodents, bugs, insects, and other unwanted pollutants. Here are some of the problems that can lead to property damage:
- Health risks from contaminated air
- Insects can gnaw on the electrical lines
- Compromised energy performance
Heating & Cooling Loss
Mortar with wide gaps and holes leads to energy inefficiency in the brick structures, which results in draft-related discomfort, including:
- Insulation issues
- Energy consumption is much more than usual
- Higher electricity bills
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, it is important to perform repointing on time without delaying it, as it causes devastation to your masonry. Your one wise act of repointing on time can reduce future repair bills. Be it historic or modern construction, make sure to use appropriate materials for excellent and durable repointing, which improves the value of your property and enhances its visual appearance.
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
Do you also replace damaged bricks, or just the mortar?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. offers both the services of replacing and repairing the mortar and brick with attention to detail, ensuring the use of the appropriate type of mortar and other masonry materials.
How do I know if my building needs repointing?
By noticing the below-written signs, you’ll get to know if your building needs repointing or not:
- Powdery mortar that comes out with a little touch
- Damp patches on the walls & surfaces
- Dislodged & misaligned bricks
- Visible voids in the mortar joints
Do you use weather-resistant and long-lasting materials?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. always prioritizes using industry-approved and high-quality materials that last for decades and are also weather-resistant and can endure all types of weather conditions.
Do you work on both residential and commercial buildings?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. offers repointing and other masonry services for both residential and commercial properties in NYC and its five boroughs.
