The Difference Between Accurate Repointing & Inaccurate Repointing
The Difference Between Accurate Repointing & Inaccurate Repointing
Repointing is a critical process in caring for your historic masonry home. It involves removing deteriorated mortar from the joints between bricks or stones and replacing it with new, compatible material. While it may appear straightforward, the accuracy of this work can have a lasting impact, either preserving the character, durability, and appearance of your home or contributing to its decline.
What Accurate Repointing Looks Like
Accurate repointing respects the original materials and craftsmanship. It begins with carefully analyzing the historic mortar to replicate its composition, color, texture, and strength. Using compatible historic mortar ensures the masonry system remains breathable and flexible, essential for dealing with moisture and seasonal movement.
Joint profiles are also matched during accurate repointing. From the depth of the mortar bed to the shape and finish of the joint, every detail matters in maintaining the architectural coherence and physical performance of your historic masonry home.
The Risks of Inaccurate Repointing
Inaccurate repointing often uses incompatible mortar, such as too rigid or impermeable mixes. This mortar type doesn’t allow the masonry to breathe or shift naturally with temperature and moisture changes. The result can be cracked or spalled brick, trapped water, and material loss.
Improper restoration tools or methods can weaken the structure, such as grinding out joints too deeply or damaging adjacent masonry. In some cases, joints may be overfilled or reshaped, which alters the original appearance and can affect how moisture is managed within the wall system.
Conclusion- Why Accuracy Matters
Your historic masonry home was built with materials meant to work together in balance. Accurate repointing preserves that balance by using the right mix of materials and techniques. Inaccurate repointing disrupts it, leading to visible damage and, over time, the need for reconstruction.
