Joints and cracks
Repointing and masonry repair
Crumbling joints let water in, and water that freezes breaks the brick. We find the cause, then repair it so the problem doesn't come back.
What we repair
- Worn mortar joints: we rake them out and refill them (repointing)
- Cracks in brick, stone or block
- Spalled or crumbling bricks, replaced one by one
- Water leaks through masonry, flashing or sills
- Damaged masonry low walls, steps and porches
Why repointing matters
The mortar joint is the part of the masonry that's meant to wear first, to protect the brick. Once it's recessed a few millimetres, water stays in the wall and frost does the rest. Redoing joints in time avoids replacing bricks later.
The cause before the repair
A crack can come from a rusting lintel, a moving foundation or an overflowing gutter. We look at the whole picture before proposing a repair, so we don't just hide the problem.
Frequently asked questions
When do joints need redoing?
When the mortar is recessed, powdery or comes out when scratched with a key. If several areas are affected, it's best to act before winter.
Will the new mortar match?
We adjust the mortar colour to come close to the existing one. A new joint always looks a little lighter at first, then weathers in.
Is a crack in my brick serious?
Not always, but it's worth a look. We'll tell you whether it's cosmetic or has a cause to fix.
Our other services
Tell us about your project.
Describe the work and attach a few photos: we'll get back to you with the next steps. Rather talk to someone? We pick up.