Rationale: What's the Point in Re-Pointing?

Lime Mortar is important because it allows moisture to move in and out of the building. It is the science and the structure working together to allow moisture transfer or known as osmosis and occurs even at a cellular level. Lime has been used for centuries and is the right material and best choice for traditional, old, solid wall heritage buildings.

Tick Tock. So... What's changed?

Cement gypsum based materials became introduced in the 19th century as a result of the industrial revolution. The revolution/process created cement, a much harder material and widely available. Since then any traditional heritage building retrofit or repair typically used cement mortar unless they knew the science of the reason why they must not use it because cement prevents moisture transfer.

Which is the softest?

​Bricks become the softest of the two materials and are damaged as moisture (osmosis) is forced through the brick, passing through the mortar is no longer possible when cement is there and the mortar joints cease their correct functionality to allow moisture transfer. The science (osmosis) continues its demand hence why the property develops sacrificial brick everywhere where cement can be seen. Over time more bricks become sacrificial to the elements, trapped water/moisture tries to escape (osmosis).
Moisture enters through the brick and passes back and fro, temperature fluctuations (freeze/thaw) weaken the brick, cement prevents movement, moisture moves through the softer material (the brick is softer since the cement has been used by modern builders).

Hopefully this helps to briefly explain what happens and why mortar needs to be remedied with traditional materials to avoid damaging the structure over time.

Cement Damages Traditional Brick Buildings

Traditional Buildings need Traditional Mortar

Adrian and his team undertake replace, rebuild and repoint buildings and existing walls. Replacing and Repointing bricks / stone walls 
​Contact Adrian 07449944628 to discuss your project or complete the form below.

If in doubt listen to this 2 minute video.

Watch Sacrificial Brick Explanation Video

ReBuild, Repoint /Repair Buildings

Repairing Heritage Buildings, England

Chimney Repointing and Repair

Loose stone, bricks or mortar on chimneys can be hazardous or even fatal if any debris falls below and hits people or animals. We undertake chimney repointing and repair. We are able to survey using drones to get access and take a closer look at the problem.
We operate across England and the South West. Call Adrian to discuss 07449944628    

Party Wall, Foundations and Extensions