If you’ve noticed crumbling mortar, damp patches on your walls or gaps appearing between your bricks, you’re probably wondering how much it’s going to cost to get it sorted.
Repointing is one of those jobs that homeowners often put off, but the longer you leave it the more expensive it becomes. So let’s get straight to the point.
What is Repointing?
Repointing is the process of removing old, damaged mortar from between the bricks or stonework of your home and replacing it with fresh mortar. Over time, mortar naturally deteriorates due to exposure to rain, frost and wind — particularly in the North West where the weather can be harsh. Once the mortar starts to fail, water gets in and the damage accelerates quickly.
So How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of repointing varies depending on a number of factors. Every property is different which is why we always carry out a free no-obligation visit before providing a quote. That way you get an accurate price based on your specific property rather than a ballpark figure that could be way off.
What Affects the Price?
Size of the property — A standard three bedroom semi will have significantly more brickwork than a two bedroom end terrace. The more surface area, the more time and materials required.
Condition of the existing mortar — If the mortar is badly deteriorated across the whole property, it will take longer to rake out and replace than a house that just needs localised repairs.
Access requirements — Most repointing jobs require scaffolding, particularly for the upper sections of the property. It’s always worth confirming what’s included in your quote upfront.
Type of mortar — Standard sand and cement mortar is the most common option. However older properties, particularly Victorian and Edwardian homes which are common across Manchester, Bury and Salford, often require a softer lime mortar to match the original construction and allow the building to breathe naturally.
Location on the property — Ground floor repointing is more straightforward than working at height. Chimney stacks and gable ends require additional access equipment.
What’s Included in the Price?
A reputable pointing contractor should include the following as standard:
- Full rake out of damaged mortar joints
- Replacement with colour matched mortar
- Cleaning down of the finished work
- Removal of waste materials
- A guarantee on the completed work
At Alexander Pointing Ltd we provide all of the above as standard on every job.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Go for the Cheapest Quote
It can be tempting to go with the lowest price, but repointing is one of those jobs where cutting corners causes serious problems down the line. Using the wrong mortar mix — particularly a mix that is too hard for older brickwork — can actually cause more damage than the original deterioration. We see this regularly on properties across Manchester where a previous contractor has used an inappropriate cement mix that has caused the bricks themselves to crack and spall.
Always check that your contractor is registered with a recognised trade body such as Trust Mark or Fairtrades, and that their work comes with a proper guarantee.
How Do I Know if My Home Needs Repointing?
Common signs to look out for include:
- Mortar that crumbles when you press it
- Visible gaps or recessed joints between bricks
- Damp patches appearing on internal walls
- Moss or plant growth in the joints
- Loose or shifting bricks
If you’re unsure, we’re happy to carry out a free inspection and give you an honest assessment.
Get a Free Quote Today
As a family run business with over 30 years experience repointing homes across Manchester, Bury, Salford, Stockport and the wider North West, we take real pride in every job we carry out. Our reputation has been built on quality workmanship, honest pricing and treating every customer’s home with the same care we’d give our own.
Call us today on 0161 327 2843 for a free no-obligation quote. We’ll visit your property, assess the work required and give you a straightforward honest price with no hidden extras.