Cement Mortar Removal
On some older buildings, previous repairs were carried out with a hard cement mortar that does not suit the masonry. Where this is causing problems, careful removal and replacement with a more compatible mortar can help.
Hard cement pointing on a soft, older wall can sometimes contribute to masonry deterioration. Because the cement is less permeable than the brick or stone, moisture can be pushed to escape through the masonry faces, and over time that can lead to spalling and erosion, particularly on exposed elevations.
Removal needs care. Cement mortar is often harder than the surrounding masonry, so taking it out badly can chip and damage the edges and faces of the bricks. The aim is to remove the mortar without harming the masonry it sits between, which is skilled and sometimes slow work.
We assess the situation before recommending removal. Not every cement repair is a problem, and stripping sound pointing for its own sake can do more harm than good. Where the existing mortar is genuinely causing damage or has failed, we remove it carefully and repoint with a mortar better suited to the wall.
This is not a blanket service to rip cement out of every building. It is for older properties where inappropriate hard pointing is causing real problems, and where a more compatible mortar will help the wall perform as it was intended to.
Our Process
Assessment
We check whether the cement pointing is actually causing a problem before recommending any removal.
Method planning
We plan a removal method that protects the arrises and faces of the surrounding masonry.
Careful removal
Hard mortar is removed carefully so the bricks or stone are not chipped or damaged.
Preparation
Joints are cleaned out and prepared ready for a compatible replacement mortar.
Repointing
The wall is repointed with a mortar better suited to the masonry, matched to the property.
Finishing and curing
Joints are finished appropriately and protected while they cure.
Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Plenty of cement pointing causes no problems, especially on buildings designed for it. We only recommend removal where hard or inappropriate mortar is genuinely causing damage to older masonry.
It can if it is done carelessly, because cement is often harder than old brick. That is exactly why it needs an experienced, careful approach. Protecting the masonry is the priority throughout.
Usually a compatible lime-based mortar suited to the age and exposure of the building, matched as closely as possible to the original in colour and finish.
Signs can include damp inside, spalling or flaking brick faces next to hard joints, and mortar that is clearly much harder than the surrounding masonry. We can take a look and give you an honest view.
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Other Services
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