In building maintenance, pointing is the technique of repairing mortar joints between bricks or other masonry parts. There is a big difference between pointing and repointing. For example- Pointing applies to the initial build process or the creation of the visible shaped joint between the bricks. On the other hand, repointing is the repair of existing pointing, wanting the removal of the damaged material as well as filling with a new mortar mix.
The completed profile of the mortar joint at its external surface is generally known as ‘pointing’. Depending on exposure or to create a particular visual effect, this profile can be varied. Some of the most common brick pointing Queens NY profiles are listed just below:
1. Flush: The mortar is completed flush with the face of the masonry units.
2. Beaded: This is a more rounded type of brick pointing Brooklyn NY with a concave edge and this can look beautifully pleasing.
3. Rubbed: It is a rounded groove and formed in the middle of the pointing by using a suitable tool.
4. Tuck Pointing: In this profile, brick pointing contractors in Queens NY Use two colours of mortar to provide the impression that the joints are very thin.
5. V-pointing: With a sharp inward, V-groove instead of rounded.
6. Penny roll: To provide a tidier impression, a recessed line is created in the middle of the joint when the joints are degraded or wide.
7. Strap: In this brick pointing Bronx NY profile, a neat strip of mortar sits proud of the face of the brickwork to give a good impression when joints are degraded.
8. Recessed: Mortar is pressed back by 5 mm or more from the face of the masonry units. This is because it creates a shadow gap between the brickwork units.
Depending on the age of your home or building, the kind of masonry, and the nature of the wall construction and mortar will be either cement mortar or lime mortar. Lime is beneficial in repointing mortars and often cure or set slowly and are less prone to cracking and shrinkage. Lime mortar is leakier and will let trapped moisture escape the structure. On the other hand, additives may be used to quicken or slow the setting process in cement-based mortars and to protect drying mortars in cold weather.
