Mortar Matching
Good repointing should look like it belongs. Mortar matching is the work of getting the new mortar right in colour, texture and finish so repairs blend into the wall rather than standing out as obvious patches.
A mortar is not just grey filler. The colour, the sand and aggregate, the texture and the way the joint is finished all affect how the wall looks. Get any of these wrong and a repair can look like a scar across the elevation, even if it is technically sound.
When we match a mortar we look at several things together: the colour, the aggregate, the texture, the binder, the strength, the joint profile and the surrounding masonry, as well as the age and exposure of the building. It is the combination that makes a match convincing.
Strength matters as well as appearance. The mortar should suit the masonry so it weathers correctly and does not damage softer brick or stone. Matching appearance and getting the strength right go hand in hand rather than being separate decisions.
This is the kind of detail that separates specialist repointing from a general builder treating it as a sideline. On period and visible elevations in particular, careful matching makes a real difference to how the finished work looks and lasts.
Our Process
Study the existing mortar
We look closely at the original mortar and the surrounding masonry to understand what we are matching.
Aggregate and colour
We select sand and aggregate to match the colour and texture of the original as closely as possible.
Binder and strength
We choose a binder and strength that suit the masonry, not just the appearance.
Sample and check
Where useful we prepare samples so the match can be checked before the main work.
Joint profile
We finish the joints to the same profile as the original so the light falls on them the same way.
Repointing
The matched mortar is used to repoint, blending the repair into the wall.
Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
Colour, aggregate, texture, binder, strength and joint profile all matter, along with the surrounding masonry and the age and exposure of the building. It is the combination that makes a match look right.
The sand and aggregate largely determine the colour and texture of the finished mortar. Using the wrong sand is one of the most common reasons repairs end up looking like obvious patches.
Yes, this is where careful matching matters most. We consider both appearance and the strength needed to suit older, softer masonry.
We get as close as we reasonably can. Original materials and weathering can make a perfect match difficult, but careful matching makes repairs far less noticeable than a standard mix.
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