Repointing brickwork — when and how

Why repointing matters

Repointing is the process of renewing the mortar joints between bricks. Good joints shed rain, keep out draughts and stop water reaching the internal fabric of a wall. Left too long, deteriorating mortar allows moisture to sit against bricks and timber, which can lead to costly repairs.

For homeowners, landlords and businesses across Newcastle upon Tyne and nearby towns, understanding when repointing is needed helps avoid surprises and keeps buildings watertight and looking cared for.

Signs you may need repointing

Repointing isn’t always required across an entire wall. Look for these common signs:

Mortar that is loose, crumbling or missing in places.
Horizontal cracking where mortar has failed.
Damp patches on internal walls that align with external joints.
White, powdery deposits (salt efflorescence) near the mortar, especially on coastal properties.
Bulging or spalling bricks where moisture has been trapped for some time.

Often the worst joints are around windows, doors and at roof level. A careful inspection will show whether localised, patch repairs are enough, or if whole elevations need attention.

Special considerations for older and coastal properties

Period houses and seaside buildings need particular care. Many older buildings used softer, lime-based mortars that allow the wall to breathe and move slightly. Replacing this with modern, hard cement mortar can trap moisture inside bricks and cause further damage.

On coastal properties, salt spray can speed up mortar decay and cause efflorescence. Repairs in these locations should consider salt-resistant finishes and, where appropriate, reusing compatible lime mixes.

How a proper repointing job is planned

Good outcomes start with a clear plan. We assess the brickwork, identify the cause of any damp or failure, and agree the scope before work begins. For many clients this avoids surprises later on.

Planning covers:

Extent of raking-out (which joints need work).
Type of mortar required (lime or cement, and the mix ratio).
Finish style — flush, recessed, struck or weathered — to match the look of the property.
Access and scaffolding needs, and any protective measures for nearby landscaping, windows and joinery.

This is where co-ordination matters: you’ll usually want one point of contact to manage trades and timing, whether work sits within a wider renovation or is a stand-alone repair. Our approach to project management keeps communication clear and co-ordinates the trades involved.

Step-by-step: how repointing is done

The repointing process is straightforward in principle but must be executed carefully.

1. Inspection and preparation

A contractor inspects the brickwork to decide how deep to remove old mortar. Preparation includes protecting windows, doors, plants and nearby surfaces.

2. Raking out the old mortar

Old mortar is removed to an appropriate depth — often well below the face of the bricks — using hand tools or specialist raking grinders. Over-deep raking or power tool damage to brick faces should be avoided.

3. Cleaning the joints

After raking out, joints are brushed clear of dust and loose material. In some cases they are dampened before pointing to ensure proper adhesion.

4. Selecting and mixing mortar

Choosing the right mortar is essential. For older, softer bricks a lime mortar is often the correct choice because it is more flexible and breathable. For modern brickwork, a suitable cement-lime mix may be appropriate. The mix is prepared on site and adjusted to match the colour and texture of the original joints.

5. Pointing the joints

The mortar is pressed firmly into the joints in layers and compacted to create a weatherproof seal. The surface is then tooled to the agreed finish. Care is taken to avoid staining brick faces; any smears are cleaned promptly using approved methods.

6. Curing and finishing

Proper curing lets the mortar set correctly. Where necessary, trades such as plastering, rendering and decorating may follow once the wall is dry and stable. If the repointing forms part of a larger repair, it will be coordinated alongside other building work such as joinery or damp-proofing.

Matching the appearance

Part of the work is aesthetic: matching mortar colour and joint profile helps maintain the character of the building. Sample panels can be prepared so you can approve the look before the whole job proceeds.

When repointing isn’t the only remedy

Sometimes failing mortar highlights another problem. Powdered brick faces, corroded wall ties, rising damp or defective flashings should be addressed before or alongside repointing. In these situations a full assessment of the elevation prevents repeated failures.

For routine upkeep and one-off fixes our building repairs and maintenance service covers small jobs as well as more extensive remedial work, ensuring the correct trades are involved.

Practical factors that affect cost

It’s tempting to look for a simple price, but repointing costs depend on a number of sensible factors:

The extent of the work: a small patch versus full elevation repointing.
Access and working height — scaffolding increases complexity.
Type of mortar and any specialist materials (lime mixes for historic buildings are often needed).
Brick condition — if bricks need replacing or wall ties are required, the job is bigger.
Finishing style and any matching work to restore appearance.

A good contractor will inspect the wall and explain what needs doing and why, so you can make an informed decision about priorities and budget.

Care and maintenance after repointing

Once repointed, keep an eye on gutters, downpipes and flashings so water is directed away from the brickwork. On coastal properties, occasional rinsing of salt deposits and following manufacturer guidance for any protective treatments will help longevity.

Why use local, experienced tradespeople

Local firms are familiar with the common brick types and weathering patterns in Newcastle, Tynemouth and surrounding areas. They understand the needs of period houses and coastal exposure.

If your repointing forms part of a larger renovation — for example, after a loft or garage conversion — having a single team manage the programme reduces disruption and keeps costs clearer. See our pages on loft conversions and garage conversions for examples of how masonry work sits within wider projects.

FAQ

How do I tell if mortar is original or has already been repaired?

Look for changes in colour, texture and joint profile. Older mortar typically appears softer and more eroded, and repairs may show different tooling or colour. A professional inspection can confirm whether previous repairs used compatible materials.

Will repointing damage my bricks?

When done correctly, repointing should not damage bricks. The risk comes from using inappropriate tools or mixes. Skilled operatives use hand tools where necessary and choose mortar compatible with the brick to avoid spalling or trapped moisture.

Can I do repointing myself?

Small, very localised repairs are sometimes suited to DIY, but repointing requires the right tools, mortar knowledge and workmanship to avoid long-term harm. For larger jobs, or properties with historic value or coastal exposure, it’s best to get professional advice and an agreed plan.

Repointing brickwork: when it is needed and how it is done