Why It’s Never A Good Idea To Postpone Brick Repairs & Repointing

1. Why It’s Never A Good Idea To Postpone Brick Repairs & Repointing

2. Older homes built using masonry techniques will undoubtedly need repointing at some point in their lifespan, no matter how durable the materials they were constructed from. But what if the exterior of your brick or stone home is looking a bit shabby, and you don’t know what to do about it? Firstly, you should schedule a consultation with a local masonry contractor, who can carry out a detailed assessment of your home. Then, according to the results of their examination, the brick or stonework will likely be repaired or repointed.

3. Repointing is a common procedure, and yet many homeowners aren’t aware of when their property needs it, or even of what it is. So let’s start by explaining at the process of repointing, and what is involved during it: Repointing explained While pointing refers to the way in which mortar joints between brick and stone are finished, repointing is when aging or damaged mortar is removed and replaced. Because although brick and stone are exceptionally durable materials, they, like most other materials, come to a point in their lifecycle when they need to be repaired, or in some instances, replaced altogether.

4. The process of repointing helps to improve a structures overall stability, and restores it to its former visual glory, too. However, it’s important to note that not all failing or aging brick or stonework needs repointing, so you should always seek a professional opinion before coming to any conclusions.

5. The process of repointing involves the following steps: Examination or consultation ● Before any masonry work can get underway, the structure must be professionally examined. This will help the masonry contractor determine the extent of repointing work that needs to be carried out, and assess any damage that may have been caused by eroding mortar.

6. Obtaining materials ● Repaired and repointed areas of a structure must blend in with the old materials, and be matched as closely as possible. The mortar used by the masonry contractor should also have similar characteristics to the original masonry, to prevent any structural stresses that could lead to cracks, from occurring. Removing old mortar ● The mason will then begin removing the old mortar from the affected joints, and will clean them thoroughly before applying the new mortar.

7. Applying new mortar ● The areas with recessions that are the deepest will be filled first, and the mortar will be applied in a number of layers. How often should your brickwork need repointing? Mortar can usually last for around 25 years before it starts to deteriorate, but this will depend on environmental conditions and overall maintenance.

8. What can happen if you don’t have your brick or stonework repointed? Ultimately, neglecting to repoint your brick or stone home could quickly lead to your joints being destroyed by moisture. Over time, the brick or stone will begin to erode, and then you’ll have a much bigger and costlier repair job on your hands. Does your home need repointing? Repointing may be necessary if the mortar between the bricks or stones has begun to crack or crumble, or if there are visible gaps between them. Loose bricks or stones may also indicate a need for repointing, as can damp patches appearing on the interior walls of your home.

9. If you’ve got any concerns about the exterior of your brick or stone home, it’s best not to wait until the problem gets worse (which it inevitably will), and instead, seek a prompt consultation and inspection from a local masonry contractor.

10. RZ Construction Group Inc is one of the best fully inclusive general and brick pointing contractors in Queens, NY. From initial design to final clean up, our results speak for themselves. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to provide both commercial and residential construction services to customers in Astoria and the surrounding area. We offer all kinds of services related to masonry and brick pointing in Queens NY. Proud to serve New York State for 25 years. No job is too small nor too big. If you are looking for masonry contractors in Queens, NY or want to know more about our wide range of professional but affordable construction and repair services, reach out to us at (718) 938-9887.