Brick Restoration

Brick Restoration – Time and the elements can cause mortar to deteriorate. It is important to recognize that repointing will probably be both expensive and time-consuming due to the extent of handwork needed. The decision to repoint is most often related to some obvious sign of deterioration such as disintegrating mortar, cracks in mortar joints, loose bricks, damp walls, or damaged plasterwork. It is, however, erroneous to assume that repointing alone will solve all these problems.
 
The true cause of the deterioration should be determined before beginning any repointing work. Leaking roofs or gutters, differential settlement of the building, capillary action causing rising damp, or extreme weather exposure should all be recognized as sources of deterioration and should be dealt with pro actively. Without such action, mortar deterioration will continue and any repointing work will have been a waste of time and money.  We find it preferable to repoint only those areas that require work rather than an entire wall, as is often specified. Recognizing this at the outset may prevent many restoration and rehabilitation jobs from becoming prohibitively expensive.