Pointing

Pointing refers to the mortar that fills the joints between bricks or stones in a wall. Over time, this mortar weathers and breaks down, and the process of removing the old mortar and replacing it with fresh mortar is called repointing. Good pointing keeps water out, maintains structural integrity, and contributes significantly to the appearance of your home’s exterior.

Why pointing matters

Mortar joints do more than hold bricks together:

• Weather protection — pointing is the first line of defence against rainwater penetrating the wall
• Structural integrity — deteriorated mortar weakens the wall and can lead to loose bricks
• Thermal performance — gaps in mortar create cold bridges and drafts
• Appearance — fresh pointing dramatically improves the look of brickwork

Signs your pointing needs attention

• Mortar is crumbling, cracking, or falling out of joints
• Gaps visible between bricks or stones
• Damp patches appearing on internal walls opposite external brickwork
• Loose bricks, especially at exposed corners or around windows
• Moss or plant growth in the joints

Types of pointing

• Flush pointing — mortar is smoothed flat with the face of the brick. Clean, modern appearance
• Bucket handle (concave) pointing — a slightly curved indentation in the mortar. Very common in domestic properties
• Weather struck pointing — mortar is angled to shed rainwater. Functional for exposed walls
• Recessed pointing — mortar is set back from the brick face. Creates shadow lines but less weather-resistant
• Ribbon (strap) pointing — mortar raised above the brick face. Generally considered poor practice as it traps water

Important: matching the mortar

This is where many DIY and even professional jobs go wrong. Using the wrong type of mortar can cause serious damage:

• Old buildings (pre-1920s) — typically need lime mortar, which is softer and breathable. Using modern cement mortar on old brickwork traps moisture in the bricks, causing them to crack and spall (the face of the brick breaks off)
• Modern buildings — can use standard cement mortar mixes

Getting the mortar type wrong is one of the most common and damaging mistakes in building maintenance. If your home is older, insist on lime mortar.

Tips for homeowners

• Match existing mortar — in colour, texture, and composition, especially on period properties
• Don’t use cement mortar on old buildings — lime mortar is essential for pre-1920s construction
• Repoint before rendering — if you’re coating walls, fix the joints first
• Get references — good pointing is a skilled craft. Ask to see examples of previous work
• Consider scaffolding costs — repointing upper floors may require scaffolding, which adds to the budget