How Often Do you Need to Repoint a Brick House?

Why does your brick house need repointing?

You might notice your brick house showing signs of wear, especially in those spaces between the bricks. That’s where repointing comes in – it’s the process of removing old mortar and replacing it with fresh mortar between the bricks of your house.

Think of mortar joints as the unsung heroes of your brick walls. They work like natural glue, keeping your brickwork strong and preventing water from sneaking behind your walls. Without proper mortar, your brick structure could face serious problems.

Water damage is sneaky – it starts small but can lead to big headaches. When old mortar deteriorates, moisture finds its way in, causing structural brick repair needs and even mold growth. This is especially true for older homes built before 1930, where the original mortar wasn’t as durable as today’s materials.

Keep an eye on your mortar joints between bricks. Regular maintenance and timely brick mortar repair can save you from costly masonry restoration down the road. Your home’s longevity depends on catching these issues early.

How often should you repoint? 5 Key factors

Mortar type selection

The choice of mortar significantly impacts repointing frequency. Lime-based mortars, while more breathable and traditional, require more frequent maintenance with a lifespan of 20-30 years.

In contrast, cement-based mortars offer extended durability, lasting over 50 years. However, it’s crucial to note that using cement mortar on older buildings can be detrimental, as it may trap moisture and cause brick damage.

Weather impact and climate conditions

Environmental factors play a vital role in determining repointing intervals. Properties in New Brunswick experiencing severe weather patterns, particularly those with frequent freeze-thaw cycles, face accelerated mortar deterioration.

Constant exposure to moisture, extreme temperature fluctuations, and heavy rainfall can compromise mortar integrity faster. Regular inspections become essential in these areas to prevent extensive damage.

Wall direction and sun exposure

The orientation of your walls directly affects mortar longevity. South-facing walls are particularly vulnerable due to intense UV exposure throughout the day. This continuous sun exposure leads to more rapid deterioration of mortar joints compared to walls facing other directions. The combination of heat and UV rays can cause the mortar to crack and crumble more quickly.

Craftsmanship quality

The initial installation quality dramatically influences how long mortar joints will last. Professional, well-executed pointing work using properly mixed mortar can maintain its integrity for decades.

Poor workmanship, including incorrect mortar mixing ratios or improper application techniques, often results in premature failure. This emphasizes the importance of hiring skilled professionals for initial pointing work.

Building age

The age of your property is a crucial factor in determining repointing frequency. Older homes, particularly those constructed before 1930, typically require more frequent attention, usually every 25-30 years.

Modern buildings benefit from advanced construction techniques and materials, often extending the repointing interval to 50-100 years. Regular assessment becomes more critical as buildings age.

When your mortar joints need attention – 5 key signs to spot

1. Watch for crumbling mortar, visible gaps between bricks, and white powdery deposits (efflorescence) on brick surfaces – these indicate deterioration.
2. Check horizontal mortar joints carefully, as they collect more water and deteriorate faster than vertical joints during weather exposure.
3. Notice increased indoor drafts or unexpectedly high heating bills, which often signal compromised mortar allowing air infiltration.
4. Test mortar strength by gently scraping with a screwdriver – if it crumbles easily, immediate attention is needed.
5. Look for loose or wobbly bricks in your wall – this means the mortar has failed to hold them securely.

Pro tips for successful repointing

Choose the right mortar – The most important part

Selecting appropriate mortar is a key for successful repointing. Using new mortar that’s too hard can cause bricks to crack and deteriorate, while overly soft mortar will break down quickly. Getting the right match is essential for long-lasting results.

To identify your original mortar type, examine its color, texture, and conduct simple hardness tests. This assessment helps ensure you select a compatible replacement that won’t damage your existing brickwork.

For historic buildings, Natural Hydraulic Lime (NHL) mortar is often the best choice. Its breathable and flexible properties protect old bricks while maintaining structural integrity.

When dealing with localized damage, tuckpointing might suffice instead of complete repointing. This targeted approach repairs specific damaged areas, saving time and money while preserving the wall’s integrity.

Weather can impact your repointing schedule

Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles in New Brusnwick pose a significant threat to mortar integrity, causing rapid deterioration as water expands and contracts within the joints. This process can accelerate the need for repointing significantly.

The ideal time for brick repointing in Fredericton, NB is during spring or fall when temperatures are mild and conditions are dry. These seasons provide optimal conditions for proper mortar curing.

Climate change has introduced new challenges, with increased storm frequency in region requiring more regular inspections and potentially more frequent repointing schedules.

Maintenance between repointing

• Annual inspections are important, particularly focusing on foundation-level mortar joints where moisture tends to accumulate. Early detection of issues can prevent major damage.
• When cleaning brick walls, avoid high-pressure washing which can damage mortar joints. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning methods using appropriate cleaners and soft brushes to preserve the mortar’s integrity.
• Keep climbing plants like ivy away from your brick walls. Their roots can penetrate and weaken mortar joints, accelerating deterioration over time.
• Maintain your gutters regularly to prevent water from overflowing onto brick walls. Proper drainage is essential as constant water exposure can significantly reduce mortar lifespan.

Avoid 4 common mistakes that shorten mortar joint life

1. Applying brick sealants might seem protective, but it often backfires by trapping moisture within the bricks. This trapped moisture can lead to accelerated deterioration from the inside out.
2. During repointing, overfilling mortar joints is a common error. When joints are packed too full, the mortar can’t cure properly, leading to premature cracking and failure.
3. Many homeowners in Fredericton, NB overlook minor cracks, considering them cosmetic issues. However, these small imperfections can quickly develop into serious structural problems if left unaddressed.
4. Aggressive cleaning methods can strip away the brick’s natural protective layer. This patina actually helps protect your brickwork, and its removal can lead to faster deterioration.

Signs you need full masonry restoration instead of repointing

• When walls begin to bulge outward, it’s a serious warning sign of structural failure. This condition requires immediate professional attention as it can lead to complete wall collapse.
• If you notice multiple bricks becoming loose in a pattern, rather than isolated spots, it indicates a systemic problem. This often means the entire wall section needs complete masonry restoration rather than simple repointing.
• Rust stains streaking down your brick walls aren’t just unsightly – they signal corroding steel lintels beneath. This corrosion can compromise the structural integrity of your wall.
• Modern thermal imaging can reveal hidden moisture damage within walls, helping identify problems before they become visible disasters.

Contact Fredericton’s most trusted brick repointing specialists today!

Are your bricks showing signs of wear and tear? Let Atlantic Brick and Stone’s experienced team assess your home’s masonry condition. Our skilled masons provide top-tier repointing services backed by our craftsmanship warranty.

Don’t let deteriorating mortar compromise your home’s structural integrity. Our professional team is just a call away, ready to deliver exceptional results that protect your investment. Contact us now for a thorough evaluation and expert repointing solutions.

Summary

• Repointing involves replacing old mortar to maintain brick wall strength and prevent water damage, particularly in older homes built before 1930.
• Regular maintenance is crucial; signs of deterioration include crumbling mortar, visible gaps, and loose bricks requiring immediate attention.
• Factors influencing repointing frequency include mortar type, weather conditions, wall exposure, quality of initial work, and the home’s age.
• Choosing the right mortar is essential; using incompatible types can damage bricks and affect structural integrity, especially in historic buildings.
• Signs for full restoration include bulging walls, multiple loose bricks, rust stains, and the need for thermal imaging to detect hidden moisture issues.

FAQ’s about brick repointing schedule

What happens if you don’t repoint brickwork?

If you neglect to repoint brickwork, water can penetrate, causing dampness and efflorescence, which accelerates the deterioration of both mortar and bricks. This compromises the wall’s structural integrity, leading to costly repairs. Ultimately, it can also damage interior finishes like plaster and wood.

Can I repoint my brick house myself, or should I hire a professional?

Small repairs might be DIY-friendly, but for full repointing, it’s best to hire a masonry repair contractor to ensure durability and proper technique.

How long does a repointing job take?

A full repointing job may take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size and condition of the wall.

Is repointing the same as tuckpointing?

Not exactly. Tuckpointing is a decorative technique that uses contrasting colors to imitate fine joints, while repointing focuses on structural repair.