Bricklaying & Pointing Restoration Preservation
Our expert brickwork is what sets us apart from the others!
Mortar quality has always been a major consideration for architects and builders.
Mortar color, width, and profile were considered part of a building’s architectural design the mortar holds masonry units together and also serves as the filler that compensates for small differences in the size of the masonry units to create an even, uniform wall. Both the quality and type of mortar used affect both the finished appearance and strength of the masonry wall.
Because most 19th century buildings were constructed of soft bricks that were bonded together with soft mortar it should be replaced with the like. This soft mortar contained a high concentration of lime and sand and contained little or no Portland cement which constitutes a high percentage of modern day mortar mixes.
The correct blend of lime mortar is critical to the success of rebuilding or repointing a wall made of historic brick so a mortar mix that is too hard could result in the cracking and failure of soft brick units due to differences in expansion and porosity rates in the mortar and brick.
We apply the knowledge and years of experience to utilize the correct mortar for any masonry restoration situation.
Heritage Historic
Preserving Legacy
Our unique mortar mixing methods are custom to each historical site.
Masonry Restoration
With our expertise your masonry structure can be restored to its original luster.
Common problematic areas
Failure of masonry mortar is perhaps the most common problem associated with brick and other masonry construction. Mortar joints slowly deteriorate over time due to exposure to weather. This deterioration results in moisture penetration in brick walls and foundations. To correct the problem, repointing (also known as tuckpointing) is necessary.
The process of replacing deteriorated mortar with fresh mortar that blends with the original treatment requires skill and patience and should generally not be undertaken by an amateur.
With repointing all deteriorated and loose mortar must be carefully raked out of the joints by hand with a hammer and chisel. Electric grinders and chisels with a masonry blades are used on horizontal joints. Only used by the most skilled masons with experience with such a tool.
