Professional Pointing & Repointing Services

Expert Pointing & Repointing Specialists

Pointing and repointing are essential maintenance tasks that protect your property's brickwork from water damage and deterioration. HouseProud Roofing provides comprehensive pointing services throughout South East London and Kent, specializing in chimney repointing, parapet walls, and all aspects of masonry restoration.

When mortar joints deteriorate, they allow water to penetrate the brickwork, leading to damp issues, frost damage, and structural problems. Our skilled craftsmen use appropriate mortar mixes and traditional techniques to restore your brickwork's integrity and appearance.

Our Pointing Services

What is Pointing and Repointing?

Pointing refers to the mortar joints between bricks or stones in masonry construction. Repointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar and replacing it with new mortar to restore the wall's integrity and weatherproofing.

The mortar joints serve several crucial functions:

• Binding bricks together structurally
• Preventing water penetration between bricks
• Allowing walls to flex and move slightly
• Contributing to the aesthetic appearance
• Protecting brick edges from damage

Why Repointing is Necessary

Over time, mortar deteriorates due to exposure to weather, particularly in exposed locations like chimney stacks and parapet walls. Several factors contribute to mortar deterioration:

• Weather Exposure - Wind-driven rain, frost, and temperature cycles
• Age - Natural degradation over decades
• Incorrect Original Mix - Overly strong or weak mortar
• Pollution - Acid rain and atmospheric pollutants
• Salt Damage - Crystallization causing erosion
• Biological Growth - Moss and algae retention causing damage

Signs you need repointing include:

• Crumbling or eroding mortar joints
• Gaps or holes in pointing
• Loose or missing mortar
• Water staining on internal walls
• Damp patches near affected areas
• White salt deposits (efflorescence) on brickwork
• Loose bricks
• Vegetation growing from joints

Chimney Stack Repointing

Chimney stacks are particularly vulnerable to mortar deterioration due to their exposed position. Water penetration through failed pointing can cause serious problems including internal leaks, structural damage, and accelerated deterioration.

Our chimney repointing service includes:

• Complete removal of deteriorated mortar to appropriate depth (typically 15-20mm)
• Thorough cleaning of joints to ensure good bonding
• Dampening of brickwork to control suction
• Application of weather-resistant mortar mix
• Proper compaction for dense, weatherproof joints
• Correct joint profiling for water shedding
• Color-matched mortar to blend with existing work
• Repointing of chimney pot bedding if required
• Treatment of any spalling or damaged bricks
• Full scaffolding provided as needed

Types of Pointing Finishes

Different pointing styles suit different properties and weather conditions. We provide various pointing finishes to match your existing brickwork or create the desired appearance.

Flush Pointing:

• Mortar finished flush with brick face
• Modern, clean appearance
• Suitable for most applications
• Good weather resistance

Weatherstruck Pointing:

• Sloped joint that sheds water effectively
• Traditional finish for exposed locations
• Excellent for chimneys and parapets
• Superior weather protection

Bucket Handle (Recessed Round):

• Rounded, slightly recessed finish
• Traditional appearance
• Suitable for most conditions
• Aesthetically pleasing

Recessed Pointing:

• Mortar set back from brick face
• Creates shadow lines emphasizing brickwork
• Period-appropriate for some older properties
• Requires appropriate mortar strength

Tuck Pointing:

• Traditional decorative technique
• Creates fine white lines over colored mortar
• Period-appropriate for Georgian and Victorian properties
• Specialist skill required

Mortar Specifications

Using the correct mortar mix is crucial for successful repointing. The mortar must be compatible with the existing bricks and appropriate for the building's age and exposure.

Modern Cement-Based Mortars:

• Suitable for modern bricks (post-1900s)
• Various mix ratios for different applications
• Good weather resistance
• Faster curing than lime mortars
• Common mixes: 1:1:6, 1:2:9 (cement:lime:sand)

Lime-Based Mortars:

• Essential for older properties (pre-1900)
• More flexible than cement mortars
• Allows moisture to evaporate through joints
• Compatible with softer historic bricks
• Self-healing properties with micro-cracks
• Breathable - prevents damp issues

We always ensure the mortar is:

• Weaker than the bricks (sacrificial)
• Compatible with existing mortar type
• Appropriate for the building's age
• Suitable for exposure conditions
• Color-matched where required

Heritage and Period Property Pointing

Historic buildings require specialist knowledge and materials. We have extensive experience working on period properties, listed buildings, and properties in conservation areas.

Our heritage pointing services include:

• Use of appropriate lime mortars
• Traditional pointing techniques
• Hot mixed lime mortars where required
• Matching historic pointing styles
• Natural hydraulic lime (NHL) mortars
• Conservation area compliance
• Listed building consent support
• Breathable mortars to prevent damp

For older properties, using modern cement-rich mortars can cause serious problems:

• Traps moisture in softer bricks
• Causes brick face spalling
• Creates damp issues inside
• Too rigid - doesn't allow movement
• Incompatible with historic construction

Parapet Wall Repointing

Parapet walls are particularly exposed to weather and require regular maintenance. Like chimneys, they're vulnerable to water penetration and freeze-thaw damage.

Our parapet repointing includes:

• Complete repointing of all mortar joints
• Inspection of copings and flashings
• Repointing of coping stones
• Lead flashing checks and repairs
• Damp-proof course inspection
• Treatment of damaged brickwork

Brick Repairs and Replacement

During repointing, we often identify damaged bricks that should be replaced to maintain structural integrity and appearance.

Brick repair services include:

• Replacement of spalling bricks
• Matching of brick type and color
• Removal and replacement of frost-damaged bricks
• Sourcing reclaimed bricks for period properties
• Professional brick matching service
• Specialist brick cutting where needed

The Repointing Process

Professional repointing requires skill, appropriate tools, and proper technique. Our process ensures lasting results:

1. Assessment and Preparation:

• Thorough inspection of brickwork
• Identification of extent of repointing needed
• Analysis of existing mortar type
• Scaffolding installation if required
• Protection of surrounding areas

2. Mortar Removal:

• Careful removal of old mortar to appropriate depth
• Use of specialist tools (grinders, chisels, rakes)
• Avoid damage to brick edges
• Square-cut joints for better bonding
• Dust suppression where required

3. Joint Preparation:

• Thorough cleaning of joints
• Removal of all loose material and dust
• Dampening of brickwork to control suction
• Ensuring proper depth throughout

4. Mortar Application:

• Preparation of correct mortar mix
• Application in layers if depth requires
• Proper compaction for density
• Complete filling of joints
• Consistent technique throughout

5. Finishing:

• Creation of chosen pointing profile
• Consistent finish throughout
• Careful brushing and cleaning
• Protection during curing period

6. Curing and Protection:

• Protection from rapid drying
• Weather protection if needed
• Appropriate curing time before exposure
• Final clean of brickwork

Mortar Color Matching

For partial repointing or where aesthetics are important, we can match mortar colors precisely using:

• Colored sands from various sources
• Natural oxide pigments
• Sample mixing and testing
• Analysis of existing mortar
• Trial areas before full application

When to Repoint

Timing your repointing project correctly is important for best results:

Best Conditions:

• Spring or autumn temperatures (10-20°C ideal)
• Dry weather for several days after completion
• No frost forecast within 48 hours
• Moderate humidity levels
• Not in direct hot sunshine

Avoid:

• Freezing conditions
• Very hot weather (over 25°C)
• Heavy rain expected
• Extremely windy conditions

Benefits of Professional Repointing

Proper repointing provides numerous benefits:

• Weather Protection - Prevents water penetration
• Structural Integrity - Maintains wall strength
• Prevents Damp - Stops moisture ingress
• Extends Lifespan - Protects bricks from damage
• Improves Appearance - Restores visual appeal
• Energy Efficiency - Reduces drafts and heat loss
• Property Value - Maintains and enhances value
• Prevents Expensive Repairs - Stops small problems becoming major

Common Pointing Problems to Avoid

Poor repointing can cause more harm than good. We avoid these common mistakes:

• Wrong Mortar Mix - Too strong mortar damages softer bricks
• Insufficient Depth - Shallow pointing fails quickly
• Poor Preparation - Dirty joints prevent bonding
• Ribbon Pointing - Mortar only on joint face (poor practice)
• Incorrect Weather - Working in frost or extreme heat
• Poor Compaction - Weak, porous joints
• Wrong Finish - Inappropriate for building or conditions

Maintenance After Repointing

Properly executed repointing should last 30-50 years or more. To maximize lifespan:

• Keep gutters and downpipes clear
• Maintain flashings and cappings
• Address any new cracks promptly
• Regular visual inspections
• Remove vegetation from joints
• Consider waterproofing treatments if appropriate

Cost Factors

Repointing costs depend on several factors:

• Extent of work required
• Height and access requirements
• Type of mortar specified
• Pointing style chosen
• Brick condition and repairs needed
• Heritage/conservation requirements
• Scaffolding needs

We provide detailed, transparent quotes outlining all costs.

Why Choose HouseProud Roofing?

• Experienced pointing specialists
• Traditional craftsmanship with modern standards
• Appropriate mortars for all building types
• Comprehensive 10-year workmanship guarantee
• Fully insured for your protection
• Experience with heritage properties
• Competitive pricing with detailed quotes
• Professional scaffolding arrangements
• Clean, efficient service
• Free surveys and expert advice

Serving South East London & Kent

We provide professional pointing and repointing services throughout South East London and Kent, including Erith, Bexley, Dartford, Sidcup, Bromley, Orpington, and all surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation survey and quote for your repointing needs.