Expert lime mortar repointing for period and heritage properties across London and the Home Counties. Over 35 years of experience.
London Brickwork Repointing is a specialist in traditional lime mortar repointing throughout London and the Home Counties. With over 35 years of experience working on Victorian, Edwardian, Georgian and listed buildings, we provide expert repointing services that preserve the character, strength and longevity of historic brickwork.
Lime mortar is an essential component of older buildings. Unlike modern cement mortars, lime mortar allows masonry to breathe, enabling moisture to evaporate naturally and helping prevent damage to bricks. Using the correct mortar is crucial when maintaining period properties, conservation area buildings and listed structures.
Whether your property requires complete repointing, localised repairs, chimney repointing or specialist mortar matching, our experienced team can provide a professional and sympathetic restoration service.
Lime mortar repointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar joints from brickwork and replacing them with a carefully matched lime-based mortar.
Historically, most properties built before the early twentieth century were constructed using lime mortar rather than cement. Lime mortar remains flexible and porous, allowing buildings to accommodate slight movement and release trapped moisture.
Over time, weather exposure, pollution, frost damage and age cause mortar joints to deteriorate. When this occurs, water can penetrate the brickwork, potentially causing structural issues and accelerated decay. Repointing replaces these failing joints, restoring both the appearance and integrity of the masonry.
Many older buildings have suffered damage due to inappropriate cement repointing carried out during the twentieth century. Unlike lime mortar, cement is extremely hard and impermeable. When used on older brickwork, cement can trap moisture within the wall, forcing water through the bricks rather than the joints. This often leads to:
Lime mortar acts sacrificially, meaning it weathers before the brick itself. This protects the masonry and allows future maintenance to be carried out without damaging the original structure. For period properties, using the correct lime mortar is not simply recommended — it is essential.
Many homeowners are unaware their brickwork requires attention until significant damage becomes visible. Common signs include:
If mortar can be easily removed with a key or screwdriver, repointing may be necessary.
Every project begins with a detailed survey to assess the condition of the masonry and identify the correct mortar specification.
We inspect the property, identify previous repairs and determine the most appropriate lime mortar mix.
We carefully match colour, texture, aggregate type and joint profile so repairs blend seamlessly.
Old mortar is removed by hand and specialist tools to minimise disturbance to surrounding bricks.
Joints are cleaned and dampened to create ideal conditions for the new mortar.
Fresh lime mortar is applied in layers and compacted to ensure durability and adhesion.
Joints are finished to match the original profile — flush, recessed, weather struck or tuck pointed.
Lime mortar requires careful curing and protection from excessive drying, rain and frost.
The prices below are a starting guide for labour only. Every written quote we provide includes all materials, scaffolding and access — broken down clearly so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Contact us today — we cover London and the Home Counties.