Bricks are tough. That’s why we still have buildings standing from the 1800s (and much earlier). But while bricks themselves can last for centuries, the mortar holding them together doesn’t. It weathers, cracks, crumbles — and when that happens, your property is suddenly exposed to water, cold, and structural problems.
If you’ve noticed flaking mortar, damp patches, or just want to understand what brick repointing is and why it matters, you’re in the right place.
What Is Repointing?
Repointing is the process of removing old, damaged mortar from between bricks and replacing it with new, fresh mortar. It’s a highly skilled job that restores the strength, appearance, and weatherproofing of a brick wall.
At Gap Restoration, we specialise in repointing brickwork across the North West — especially in older buildings where failing mortar is a serious concern.
Why Does Mortar Deteriorate?
Time, weather, and pollution take their toll. Over the years, mortar joints are attacked by:
-
Rain and frost cycles – water gets in, freezes, expands, and cracks the mortar
-
Wind and pollution – erodes the surface and washes away lime or cement content
-
Movement in the building – even tiny shifts can cause cracks
-
Poor-quality previous repairs – modern mortars used on older buildings can actually speed up damage
Once mortar starts to fail, water can seep into the wall, leading to damp, frost damage, and even loose bricks.
Signs Your Bricks Might Need Repointing
-
Crumbling, powdery, or missing mortar
-
Gaps forming between bricks
-
Damp patches inside the house, particularly on external walls
-
Bricks that feel loose or unstable when pressed
-
Moss or plants growing in joints (yes, that’s a thing)
If you see any of the above, it’s time to call in the experts.
What Happens If You Don’t Repoint?
We get it — repointing isn’t exactly glamorous, and it’s easy to put off. But here’s what ignoring the issue can lead to:
-
Water ingress – leading to damp, rot, and mould inside the property
-
Structural damage – loose bricks, bulging walls, or collapsing sections
-
Heat loss – poorly sealed mortar joints let warm air out and cold air in
-
Increased repair bills – the longer it’s left, the more costly it becomes
In short: mortar is your wall’s first line of defence. If you let it fail, the consequences get expensive quickly.
What Are the Benefits of Repointing?
Repointing might not be exciting, but it is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect and improve your home. Benefits include:
-
Improved structural stability
-
Protection against damp and frost damage
-
Enhanced energy efficiency
-
Preserved appearance – especially for period homes
-
Boosted property value – a well-maintained exterior always appeals to buyers
And done properly, you won’t need to do it again for decades.
Why Choose Gap Restoration?
We don’t just slap mortar on and call it a day. At Gap Restoration, we:
-
Use traditional materials that match your building (especially for heritage properties)
-
Colour match mortar for a seamless finish
-
Remove only damaged joints – preserving your brickwork
-
Work efficiently and respectfully on-site, keeping disruption to a minimum
From terraced homes in Eccles to large period houses in Worsley, we’ve repointed them all.
Think Your Property Might Need Repointing?
Don’t wait for damp, damage, or disaster. If your mortar’s looking tired, give us a call for a friendly, no-pressure assessment.
Call us today: 0161 793 5016 / 07974 931 560
Email: info@gap-restoration.co.uk
Visit: https://www.gap-restoration.co.uk
