Here we explain when you must avoid repointing a brick structure and why.
Even though repointing is necessary throughout the life of any masonry structure, it’s not always the ideal solution. Repointing refers to repairing the joints or grout between bricks when they have cracks or crumbling. Although it provides an affordable way to restore masonry work, it’s not always the best option. Here we explain when you must avoid repointing a brick structure and why.
The Repointing Process
Repointing is a dusty job that a masonry professional can do with a few essential tools and techniques. First, the mason uses a mechanical angle grinder to eliminate the damaged mortar between the horizontal joints. Secondly, the masonry contractor utilizes a scrapping device to destroy the remaining damaging materials while also being careful not to mess up the alignment and placement of nearby bricks. Once the masonry expert has removed all damaged portions, they must clean the debris to apply the newly mixed mortar. Therefore, your brick structure will have new durability and aesthetic appeal.
When Must You Avoid Repointing?
Moreover, one of the worst things you can do regarding your masonry’s longevity is to ignore underlying problems and try to repair everything with repointing. So, when must you avoid repointing a brick structure? Settling or foundation problems often start as cracks that move up the walls of a building, having people instantly think repointing can repair the issue. Repointing only fixes joints; any other damage will cause the entire wall to split in places. Sometimes, it can even accelerate the speed at which the brick structure cracks completely.
Excessive water damage is also a leading trigger of brick masonry damage. When there are cracks in the mortar joints, water has the opportunity to seep inside. If the water damage is not treatable, repointing will only enclose the water deep inside so that it continues to produce troubles until it eventually compromises the structure’s stability.
Signs that Repointing is Not the Ideal Option
Furthermore, repointing fixes mortar joints, not bricks or the structure’s foundation. So, you must avoid repointing a brick structure if you notice the following signs:
- You can view loose bricks
- You discover cracks shaped in the formation of stairs
- Bricks are spalling due to water damage
- The brick structure is shifting out of place
- There are weeds developing between bricks
- Bricks display signs of damage
CONTACT DEL PRETE MASONRY TODAY!
Whether you are ready to start your next masonry project or are still hesitant and have questions, Del Prete Masonry is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to get it right the first time. Questions? Want to visit some of our residential or commercial projects? Ready to set up a consultation? Feel free to give us a call at 410-683-0650 or visit us online. We are happy to serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and to keep up with our new and exciting projects, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest
Tags: baltimore commercial masonry, brick repointing, Del Prete Masonry