Mastering The Art Of Repointing Old Brickwork Techniques Tools And Safety

Discover expert methods for repointing old brickwork, including using mortar rakes and chisels. Learn the two key pointing techniques and essential safety measures.

• Learn how to repoint old brickwork using different methods and tools.
• The process involves raking out old mortar, preparing the surface, and applying new mortar.
• Two common pointing techniques are weather struck and bucket handle.
• Safety precautions are important when using tools like mortar rakes and grinders.

In this guide, we'll explore the art of repointing old brickwork with Craig Phillips. Repointing is a crucial skill for maintaining the integrity and aesthetics of brick structures. The process involves removing old, deteriorated mortar and replacing it with fresh mortar. We'll delve into the tools and techniques required for this task, focusing on two common pointing methods weather struck and bucket handle. Safety precautions are also emphasized, especially when handling tools like mortar rakes and grinders.

• Repointing old brickwork is a vital skill for preserving the structural integrity and appearance of brick structures.
• The process involves removing old mortar and replacing it with new mortar.
• Two primary pointing techniques are weather struck and bucket handle.
• Safety precautions are crucial when using tools like mortar rakes and grinders.

Repointing old brickwork is essential to maintain the durability and appearance of brick structures. In this comprehensive guide, we will follow Craig Phillips as he demonstrates the techniques, tools, and safety measures involved in this process.

The Initial Steps

• Before beginning the repointing process, assess the condition of the existing mortar. It can vary in hardness, with some mortar having cement and others having lime.
• To start, you'll need a mortar rake. This tool helps remove the old mortar. You can adjust the depth of the rake, but typically, it's recommended to scratch out at least 15mm of the old mortar.
• If the mortar is stubborn, consider using a cold chisel to manually scrape out the perps of the mortar around the bricks.
• For extremely stubborn cement mortar, a 4-inch grinder with a raking bit can be used, but always wear safety goggles when working with power tools.

Preparing for Repointing

• After raking out the old mortar by about 15-20mm, it's essential to dampen the joints by spraying a bit of water on them.
• Once the wall is dry, you can begin the repointing process. Prepare a mortar mix with a ratio of three parts sand to one part cement.

Applying New Mortar

• To apply the new mortar, you'll need two trowels a regular bricklaying trowel and a pointing trowel.
• Apply a small amount of mortar to the edge of the pointing trowel and press it between the perps of the bricks, ensuring it reaches the back where the existing mortar is bedded.
• At this stage, neatness is not a concern; the primary goal is to ensure the mortar is tight between the joints.

Pointing Techniques

1. Weather Struck Pointing

   • To achieve a weather struck joint, use one edge of the pointing trowel and press it tightly against the mortar, smoothing it off.
   • Start with the uprights, pushing the mortar in tightly and smoothing it to eliminate air gaps.
   • This technique enhances waterproofing and aesthetics.

2. Bucket Handle Pointing

   • After applying the mortar, allow it to semi-dry.
   • Use a brick jointer to create a bucket handle shape by pressing it into the mortar.
   • The pressure applied determines the depth of the shape and smoothes the mortar.
   • Wipe off any excess mortar on the sides of the brick, which can be done once the mortar is dry.

Finishing Touches

• Allow the mortar to dry for 10 to 15 minutes before brushing it down with a soft brush to achieve the desired finish.
• You can choose between the weather struck and bucket handle pointing techniques based on your preference and the overall look you want to achieve.

Safety Precautions

• When using tools like mortar rakes and grinders, always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Exercise caution when handling sharp or power tools, ensuring they are in good working condition.
• Properly prepare the mortar mix and dampen the joints before starting the repointing process.
• Prioritize safety to avoid accidents and injuries during the repointing project.

In conclusion, repointing old brickwork is a valuable skill for maintaining the integrity and appearance of brick structures. By following the techniques demonstrated in this guide and adhering to safety precautions, you can successfully repoint old brickwork, enhancing its longevity and visual appeal. If you want more helpful tips and guidance, please visit our website, Silverlinetools.com.

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