How to Replace Brick Mortar
A step-by-step guide from Handyman
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| Bricks and mortar eventually succumb to the effects of weather and time. But repointing – removing and replacing crumbling mortar – is a simple process. It also prevents moisture getting between cracks, which could lead to more extensive, expensive repairs down the track. To tint the mortar to match existing brickwork, mix coloured oxide with a small amount of mortar and spread it onto scrap board, making a note of how mush is used. Let it dry for two days then make colour adjustments from this test. If a significant area needs replacing, or if bricks are crumbling or missing, call in the professionals. |
STEP 1
Remove the old mortar
Use a plugging chisel and lump or
mash hammer to a depth of 25mm or
until you reach sound mortar. Remove
the debris. Mix four parts bricklayer’s
sand to one part Type A cement. Add
water to make a paste stiff enough to
keep shape when formed into a ball.
STEP 2
Replace the mortar
Let the mortar stand for up to
90 minutes which gives about half
an hour to work with it. Hold mortar
on the underside of a trowel and push
into the joint with a joint ironing
tool. Avoid getting mortar on the face
of the bricks to save cleaning later.
STEP 3
Rake the joints
When the mortar is thumbprint
hard, smooth over with a wheel rake
to match the existing joints.
When completely hard, clean any
excess mortar from the bricks with
a scrubbing brush.
Solid finish
Keep any old solid mortar as the
contact point for new mortar.
Add Water if the mortar becomes
stiff. If too stiff, mix a new batch.
Mix small batches of mortar,
maintaining mixing ratios.
Pack mortar tightly in 6mm layers
when filling a gap more than 20mm.
Each layer should be thumbprint
hard before the next is applied.
Wear gloves and eye protection.
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