Which brickwork pointing styles are best for historic or contemporary buildings?
Pointing is the process of creating the mortar joints between bricks in a piece of brickwork. When old mortar is partially removed and replaced, this is called repointing.
If you’ve looked closely at more than a few brick walls, you’ll know that pointing can look quite different from one structure to the next. Not only are there variations in the colour of mortar, its condition and the quality of pointing – the finish of the pointing can also take various forms. These different profiles are known as ‘pointing styles’.
Third-generation bricklayer, Marcus Clark, is director of Heritage Brickwork Restoration, a company of renovation and conservation craftsmen based in Kent. Clark oversees his firm’s repointing services and is an authority on mortar formulation for historic properties.
6 brickwork pointing styles to consider
1. Flush pointing
2. Recessed pointing
3. Weather struck pointing
4. Tuck pointing
5. Concave pointing
6. V-joint pointing
Learning how to point? Here’s where to start
‘Brickwork: History, Technology and Practice’ by Gerard Lynch
This book by master bricklayer Gerard Lynch is an investment, but keen bricklayers will find it an invaluable source of information. Marcus Clark learned under the book’s author.
Rolson 52296 Pointing Trowel, Solid Forged Ball Pein Hammer, 150 Mm
A good pointing trowel is one of the first bricklaying tools you’ll need as you start your bricklaying journey.
Womersleys Ironstone Heritage Lime Mortar Chalk Pre Mixed Natural Hydraulic Lime and Sand 25kg Bag
Every repointing project requires a well-chosen mortar. This pre-mixed hydraulic lime example is a good choice for trainees who want to practise traditional pointing styles.
FAQs on pointing styles
Which pointing style is most commonly used in modern properties?
Charlie Hill is the owner of Hill House Brickwork in Surrey, specialising in brickwork and pointing. The firm prides itself on expertly restoring and enhancing properties through meticulous care and craftsmanship.