Total Repointing, FAQ Friday

Q: What is the correct method for total repointing?

A: Correct total repointing requires removing the joint to a depth of approximately 2-1/2 times its width and then using a compatible mortar in relation to the final p.s.i. and both the liquid and vapor transmission rate as that of the remaining joint and brick. High lime content pointing mortar is compatible with
the soft and absorptive nature of historic brick which rely on their “fired skin” to protect themselves and the building from rain intrusion. If high concentrations of Portland cement were in the repointing mortar instead of lime, when moisture in the brick were to expand and contract during freeze/thaw cycles, often the unyielding mortar forces the softer face of the brick to exfoliate thus leaving a vulnerable unburned “salmon” center of the brick exposed to the elements.

A visit to Bricklayers Heaven

We recently went on  visit to Salem, NJ unaware of the epic journey and incredible historic structures we would happen upon… Salem NJ was the original site proposed to be what is now Williamsburg Virginia. Salem was founded in 1675 and main street still holds the charm of an earlier time.

We also took a walk out of town, through the forest in 105° heat to find an amazing house originally built in 1722. The Nicholson house was complete with a lozenge diapering pattern and remnants of the incised line in the center of the brick joints to receive penciling was still visible. The history of this house in not completely clear but was referred to as “The Harbison’s” house, Harbison was the name of a large dairy farm in the New Jersey and Philadelphia region in the 1800s.