What You Need to Know About Professional Brick and Stone Pointing

There's no mistaking a well-pointed piece of masonry. The clean, sharp lines add an element of sophistication and refinement to any home or building. But what most people don't realize is that professional brick and stone pointing is more than just a cosmetic improvement. In fact, it's a crucial part of maintaining the structural integrity of your property.

Brick and stone pointing is the process of filling in the joints between bricks or stones with mortar. Over time, weathering and other environmental factors can cause these joints to loosen or even fall out completely. If left unrepaired, this can lead to serious problems like water damage, leaks, cracks, and even total collapse. In other words, it's not something you want to ignore!

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this important service.

Why Is Brick and Stone Pointing Important?

As we mentioned above, the primary reason for professional brick and stone pointing is to maintain the structural integrity of your property. But it's not just about preventing catastrophic failures. Regular pointing can also help improve the energy efficiency of your home or building by sealing up any gaps or cracks that might otherwise let heat escape.

In addition, adequately maintained masonry can significantly increase the curb appeal of your property. Whether you're trying to sell your home or simply want to impress your neighbors, nothing beats the look of freshly pointed brickwork!

When Should I Have My Masonry Repointed?

Ideally, you should have your masonry inspected by a professional once every few years to check for any signs of damage or deterioration. Even minor problems can quickly escalate into major (and expensive) repairs if left unchecked.

Of course, there are some situations where repointing is a more urgent matter. If you notice any cracks wider than 1/4", gaps larger than 1/8", or pieces of mortar falling out, it's time to call in a pro! These are all clear signs that your masonry needs repair.

How Is Masonry Repointed?

The process of repointing brickwork begins with a thorough cleaning of the affected area using high-pressure water jets. Once the surface is clean, any loose or missing mortar by hand with a chisel before the new mortar is applied in its place. The final step is to smooth out the joints with a trowel so that they match the surrounding mortar lines as closely as possible. After the new mortar has had a chance to set properly (usually 24-48 hours), the job site will be cleaned up, and all debris will be removed. And that's it! Your masonry will be good as new and will last for years with proper care and maintenance.

In short, professional brick and stone pointing is a crucial part of maintaining your property's aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Repointing is always a wise investment whether you're dealing with minor cosmetic damage or more severe issues like cracks or leaks. Just be sure to leave it to the professionals! Over The Top Waterproofing offers high-quality repointing services at competitive prices. Contact us today for a free quote!