Repointing is an essential maintenance task for brickwork, helping to preserve the structural integrity of your building. Whether it’s a domestic house in Belfast or a historical site in Northern Ireland, repointing brickwork is a job that requires skill, precision, and techniques. When done incorrectly, it can lead to huge damage to your brickwork that can be expensive to fix.In this blog, we will explore some of the most common mistakes when people do repointing and how to avoid them.
Failing to Grind Out to an Adequate Depth While Repointing Brickwork
The most common mistake when repointing brickwork is not grinding out the old mortar to an adequate depth before applying the new mortar. The objective of grinding out old mortar is to remove weak, damaged, or deteriorated mortar. So that new mortar can bond effectively with the bricks. If you don’t grind out enough depth, the new mortar won’t bond properly and repointing work may not last very long.Grinders are powerful tools but also dangerous. To ensure safety for both the contractor and the surrounding public, it is important to use the correct equipment such as a grinder shroud and dust extraction system.Grinding too shallow or leaving old mortar in place could result in future problems like dampness, it is a common issue for those who skip this step. To do the job right way you have to ensure the depth of mortar removal is 20mm to 30mm depending on your brickwork condition.
Choosing the Wrong Mortar Mix
Another mistake commonly made by people when repointing brickwork is the use of the wrong type or strength of mortar. The strength and composition of mortar used in repointing should match the original mortar. Using too weak or too strong mortar can lead to long-term damage.Traditional mortar repointing methods often call for a lime-based mortar in the UK or Northern Ireland. Which allows the brickwork to breathe and prevent moisture trapped within the wall. If you use a cement-based mortar that is too strong for your building’s age or type of brick you can risk causing damage to the bricks because the mortar may be too inflexible and hard to bend. That can cause bricks to crack or break.When it comes to mortar repointing, always ensure that you choose the right strength to match the needs of your property. Historical buildings often require softer, more flexible mortar for structural integrity.
Ignoring the Weather Conditions While Doing Repointing Work
Ignoring the impact of weather is a common mistake when repointing brickwork. Repointing during wet or rainy conditions can cause the mortar to weaken, while hot, dry weather can make it set too weekly which can lead to cracks and poor adhesion.It is essential to plan your repointing work around mild, dry weather conditions to ensure proper curing of the mortar and strength. Longer-lasting bond with the brickwork. Always check the forecast and avoid working in extreme weather conditions.
Applying Mortar Incorrectly
Applying mortar incorrectly is a common mistake when repointing brickwork. This includes using the wrong consistency or rushing the application, which can lead to uneven joints and weak adhesion.Too much mortar can spill over the bricks, making it difficult to achieve a clean finish. Other hand, too little mortar can result in gaps that leave the joints exposed.It is important to apply the mortar evenly, ensuring it fills the joint fully without excess. Taking the time to carefully apply the mortar will result in stronger, longer-lasting brickwork repointing.
Removing Too Much Old Mortar
It’s important to grind out damaged old mortar to ensure a strong bond with the new mortar mix. However, removing too much old mortar during the cleaning process is a mistake during repointing brickwork. Removing too much can damage the surrounding brickwork, compromising the structural integrity of the wall.It is essential to strike a lance. Grind enough around 20mm to 30mm to remove weak old mortar and avoid excessive removal because of that harm to bricks. Proper depth is key to achieving durable, long-lasting brickwork repointing.
Conclusion
Repointing brickworks is a vital maintenance task that not only extends the life of a building but also enhances its appearance and value. To ensure a successful outcome, careful planning, the right materials, and skilled execution are important. By avoiding common mistakes like incorrect mortar application, poor weather timing, and excessive mortar removal you can achieve long-lasting, durable results.If you are unsure of how to tackle the job by you own self, hiring a professional painting contractor can help you achieve the best results and save you from costly future repairs.
