If you’ve recently had your home repointed, or you’re considering getting the work done, one of the most common questions we hear is — how long will it last?
It’s a fair question and the honest answer is that it depends on several factors. Here’s what you need to know.
What is the Lifespan of Repointing?
When carried out correctly by an experienced contractor using the right materials, repointing can last anywhere between 20 and 30 years. In some cases, particularly on well-sheltered properties using quality lime mortar, it can last even longer.
However, repointing that has been done poorly — using the wrong mortar mix, inadequate preparation or cutting corners on the rake out — can fail within just a few years. This is why choosing the right contractor matters as much as the job itself.
What Affects How Long Repointing Lasts?
The type of mortar used This is probably the single most important factor. Older properties, particularly Victorian and Edwardian homes which are common across Manchester, Bury and Salford, were built with soft lime mortar. If a contractor repoints these properties using a hard cement mortar, the mortar will not flex with the natural movement of the building. Over time this causes cracking, water ingress and in some cases damage to the bricks themselves. Always make sure your contractor uses a mortar mix appropriate for your property.
The quality of the rake out Before new mortar can be applied, the old damaged mortar needs to be fully raked out to a sufficient depth — typically at least 15mm. If this isn’t done properly, the new mortar won’t bond correctly and will start to fail prematurely. This is one of the most common shortcuts taken by inexperienced contractors.
Weather exposure Properties that are fully exposed to the elements — particularly north and west facing elevations in the North West of England — will see their mortar deteriorate faster than sheltered walls. This is simply the nature of our climate. Regular inspections every few years will help you catch any deterioration early before it becomes a bigger problem.
The quality of the original brickwork If the bricks themselves are in poor condition — spalling, cracked or porous — even the best repointing job will have a reduced lifespan. A good contractor will flag any brick issues before starting work.
How Do I Know When My Repointing Needs Doing Again?
Even good repointing will eventually need attention. Signs that your mortar is starting to fail include:
- Mortar that crumbles or comes away when pressed
- Visible gaps or recessed joints between bricks
- Damp patches appearing on internal walls
- Moss or plant growth taking hold in the joints
- Loose or shifting bricks or stones
If you spot any of these signs it’s worth getting a professional to take a look sooner rather than later. Catching deterioration early is always cheaper than leaving it until serious damage has occurred.
Why Choose Alexander Pointing Ltd?
As a family run business with over 30 years experience repointing homes across Manchester and the North West, we understand that every property is different. We take the time to assess your home properly, use the right materials for your specific brickwork and back all our work with a guarantee.
We’ve built our reputation on doing the job properly the first time — and making sure it lasts.
Call us today on 0161 327 2843 for a free no-obligation quote.