Brick & Stone Repointing
Pointing of Brick and Stone work is necessary to prevent the ingress of moisture to the fabric of the structure.
The pointing acts like a sponge drawing moisture from the host masonry allowing the masonry to dry and therefore reduce the risk of frost damage.
Frost damage can occur if the brick or stone is saturated. The moisture in the brick can expand if temperatures drop to freezing, which can in turn cause spalling or delamination of the brick or stone.
The most common styles used in conservation and restoration work are those of Flush and brush, used mainly on stonework and on brickwork which is of good quality and regular in shape and size.
Tuck Pointing
The other pointing style is that of Tuck pointing. Tuck pointing is more commonly seen on buildings from the Georgian period. Bricks manufactured in this period often resulted in the size and shape not being as regular as later brick. To compensate for the irregularity in the brick shape and size, Tuck pointing was widely used. The technique gave the illusion of regular coursed brickwork, by firstly flush pointing all joints in a lime mortar coloured to match the host brick.
Before the coloured mortar had set a fine line is scribed into it. These joints were then pointed with a lime putty mix and clipped to give the impression of high class brick work.
At Magee Conservation we have the skilled technicians to carry out this work to the highest standards.
To discuss your requirements call today on 01 456 8899 or contact John Magee directly on 085 8565614 or email info@mageeconservation.ie
