Repointing Ottery St Mary Devon (EX11): Every Ottery St Mary home will need a little repair and maintenance every now and then, irrespective of how old it actually is. Properties in Ottery St Mary are impacted by all sorts of pollution, weather and other damaging issues that may have an adverse effect on the condition of the mortar between the bricks, and should you discover evidence of this you will want to call on some expert help. It's imperative to keep the brickwork in excellent shape to keep your house watertight, and the most cost effective solution is to employ a brick repointing specialist in Ottery St Mary.
The mortar and bricks are what make a property strong enough to withstand the weather. To prevent any draughts and damp from forcing its way in through gaps or holes, and therefore keeping a house dry and warm, the mortar must be in tip top condition. But exactly how can can you be certain whether your home needs repointing or not?
Examine your external walls and try to spot any obvious damage that can easily be seen with the naked eye. If you find damage or areas that look distinctly different to the remainder of the building, you may need to speak to a professional repointing company for a more thorough analysis. In areas such as under eaves or on chimney stacks it might be necessary to use a professional to check, but you should be able to see for yourself in most cases the physical warning signs of deterioration.
When your house in Ottery St Mary needs repointing, it's not simply the appearance that is a concern, the safety risks need to be looked at too. The structural integrity of any Ottery St Mary house is only as effective as its bricks and mortar. With regards to property damage and the related risk of injury, any weakness in the integrity of the building can have alarming implications, and this is especially so in the case of buildings with chimneys or tall buildings.
It may be the case that damaged bricks are the primary reason for any missing or crumbling mortar that you find on your house. Any deteriorating brickwork discovered during the inspection by the repointing company will be replaced or repaired before any mortar repointing takes place.
In properties where the exterior walls have been plasterered over or painted in the past, you may notice sections that are prone to damp or are discoloured, which may be a sign of problems underneath. It could all point to more serious problems under the surface coating, if you discover flaking, bubbling or cracks of the paint or plaster. The only safe way to investigate a problem of this kind is by employing an experienced brickwork and repointing company who will find the main cause behind the damage. A competent repointing specialist in Ottery St Mary will easily achieve this and help keep your house in the best condition.
WHAT ARE THE STEPS IN REPOINTING BRICKWORK IN OTTERY ST MARY?
A fair amount of time may be required to repoint your home in Ottery St Mary, and working up high may also be involved. To evaluate the level of damage and the work that's required on your property, the first step for a repointing firm will be to conduct an eyes-on inspection of the brickwork. Once they've considered all of this information, they'll be able to provide you with a price quote for the whole project. You should not automatically assume that the best estimate is the cheapest estimate, and remember to get no less than three price quotes before make up your mind.
A further site survey could be needed when you accept a quotation and may include the use of extending ladders, or even a scaffold, to gain access to out-of-reach areas of your home. If this 2nd more meticulous survey reveals more serious issues, the first estimate may need to be revised. If your Ottery St Mary home has not been repointed previously and is over sixty years old, the chances are that it will need more remedial work than a more modern property would.
As soon as the issues have been confirmed then work can start. There's every chance that your repointing contractor will need a scaffold so as to have a stable platform while doing the work on your home. Some protective shielding can be fixed to the outside of the scaffold, after it has been put up. This is to stop any debris or mortar dust falling and damaging your property or that of your neighbours.
All external wires, such as TV or satellite cables, will be detached from the walls and any pipes will be adjusted or removed to allow access to the brickwork behind. These fixtures can all be put back into position on the completion of the project.
A lot of buildings in Ottery St Mary are either rendered, pebble-dashed or painted, and if this is the case with your dwelling, these cosmetic coverings must be removed so that the pointing specialists can get to the brickwork. To ensure a uniform finish for your outside walls, the brickwork behind these coverings will need to be thoroughly cleaned and sanded.
If you've not yet decided upon a a style of pointing (Weather Struck, Recessed, Tuck or Flush pointing), or you want to see how the various pointing options look on your house, a decent Ottery St Mary repointing specialist will be happy to mock up a test panel on your brickwork. This test panel will allow you to visualise how each design compares to each other and also which matches your style of property best.
The joints are now vigorously raked out to take away the old mortar and clean the gaps between the bricks. This can be quite a laborious procedure where the old mortar and any dust or loose debris must be carefully cleaned out to produce a satisfactory binding surface for the new mortar. The repointers will be especially cautious around doors, windows and other openings where movement in the brickwork or an over application of mortar can result in difficulty in opening and closing them.
So the new mortar does not dry out too rapidly, the walls will be dampened before the new pointing is started. This delayed drying time stops the mortar from becoming inflexible and cracking, which can lead to a compromised joint. Any smears and excess mortar that is left on the bricks can be cleaned off as soon as the mortar is properly dry. A wire brush can be used to clean the wall areas which have been finished before starting on the next section of the wall requiring work.
During this stage the need for any brick replacement, lead flashing replacement or chimney repairs will be undertaken by your contractor.
Any render, paint or other wall coverings that you require will be applied as soon as all repointing work has been finished. The final step of the project will entail all pipes, cables and other fixtures fixed back in their rightful locations, the scaffolding taken down and all waste removed and disposed of.
Your repointing and brick repair should last up to 50 to 60 years as long as it's accomplished by a skilled and professional repointing contractor in Ottery St Mary. Guarantees that are offered for the repointing should have an affiliation with providers and manufacturers from the construction industry covering substandard materials.
Accreditation can take many forms, however those that stand out in the repointing industry are: the National House Building Council (NHBC), the National Federation of Building Contractors (NFBC) and the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), with qualifications and certifications from construction industry forerunners such as the Chartered Institute of Building. Each individual who does work on your repointing project is also required to be part of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme and be able to confirm their skills and ability by producing an appropriate CSCS card.
It's not only in Ottery St Mary that you can access repointing companies - neighbouring places like: Feniton, Taleford, Cadhay, Whimple, Perkin's Village, Sidbury, Gosford, Fairmile, Wiggaton, Fluxton, Higher Metcombe, Clyst St Lawrence, Metcombe, Rockbeare, East Hill, Lancercombe, Aller Grove, Cobden, Southbrook, Alfington, Putts Corner, Aylesbeare, Fenny Bridges, West Hill are also covered. It's most likely that any repointing companies in the Ottery St Mary district will have the phone code 01404 and the postcode EX11.
Brick Staining Ottery St Mary
A process called brick staining is used to alter the colour of bricks on a building in Ottery St Mary. Staining differs from painting in that it penetrates the brick, rather than covering the surface, allowing the brick's natural appearance and texture to remain visible. This method is often employed when the existing bricks are discoloured, mismatched, or when a consistent appearance is sought.
Brick staining is particularly beneficial due to its durability. Unlike paint, the stain soaks into the brickwork, making it less prone to fading, peeling, or chipping. This creates a long-term solution for enhancing the look of brickwork, with little need for ongoing maintenance.
In terms of breathability, brick staining is superior to paint. The bricks used for building naturally take in and release moisture, and a breathable stain enables this process to continue. Using a stain reduces the risk of moisture being trapped inside the brickwork, which over time, can cause damage.
Brick staining is actually a relatively straightforward process but requires meticulous planning and preparation. The stain should only be applied to clean, dry brickwork to ensure uniform absorption. After the stain has been applied, it dries pretty quickly, and with usually permanent results, it provides a fast and effective means of updating the exterior of a building in Ottery St Mary. (Brick Staining Ottery St Mary)
Tuck Pointing Ottery St Mary
What is Tuck Pointing? A restoration procedure that can be used on old and weathered brickwork where the mortar joints are crumbling and unstable, tuckpointing (or tuck-pointing) can be very useful. It's a technique that's used to cosmetically augment the appearance of walls to give the illusion that they are in perfect condition.
A portion of the crumbling, old mortar is raked out and replaced with a new colour-matched mortar that's as close as possible to the colour of the stone or brick from which the wall is made. Then to give the impression that the joints are neat and tidy, where in fact the joints may be irregular in width, a narrow contrasting line of (usually lighter) mortar is "tucked" in.
The effect of tuckpointing can be quite striking, especially when viewed from afar, and can substantially improve the visual appearance of a wall without the requirement for disruptive refurbishments. (Tags: Tuckpointing Ottery St Mary, Tuck Pointing Mortar Ottery St Mary, Tuck Pointing Ottery St Mary).
Brickwork Joint Raking Ottery St Mary
Removing old, crumbling mortar from between the bricks in a wall is done through the process of brickwork joint raking. Typically, this is done prior to repointing, where new colour-matched mortar is applied to the joints. Raking out the old mortar helps ensure the new mortar bonds well with the bricks, providing a strong and long-lasting finish.
The process involves using specialised tools like a raking bar or a mortar raking blade to cautiously remove the old mortar without damaging the bricks. It's essential to remove the mortar to an appropriate depth, typically around 15-20mm, to allow the new mortar to properly set and adhere.
Enhancing the lifespan and appearance of brickwork is achieved by raking out and renewing the joints. Keeping the brickwork looking great and maintaining the integrity of the building, it helps prevent structural damage from water ingress. This makes the raking of brick joints an important part of restoring and maintaining brick walls in Ottery St Mary. (Brickwork Joint Raking Ottery St Mary)
Brick Cleaning Ottery St Mary
To make brick walls look clean and tidy, brick cleaning involves removing grime, dirt, and other stains from their surface. The bricks' appearance can be compromised over time due to the damaging effects of pollution and weather exposure. The process of brick cleaning can help to rejuvenate the appearance of the building by restoring the bricks to their former glory.
For brick cleaning, there are a number of different methods to choose from, including jet washing, chemical cleaning and sandblasting. The selection of the method used for brick cleaning depends on the stains that need to be removed and the condition of the bricks. For an effective and safe process, it's imperative to enlist the services of an experienced brick cleaning company that can ensure the preservation of the brickwork and the surrounding area.
The process of cleaning can prolong the life of the bricks and ultimately save you money on repairs. It's important to choose a brick cleaning service that takes environmental factors into consideration, such as the methods and products used during the process. On top of that, to avoid any surprises, it is important to choose a company that offers a detailed quotation and timeline for the project.
Chimney Repointing Ottery St Mary
Chimneys are often overlooked with regards to property maintenance, however a chimney which is falling into disrepair can be an expensive hazard. During a preliminary examination of your chimney in Ottery St Mary, a specialist company may recommend repointing or even a rebuild of your chimney, according to the size of the damaged and affected area. Specialist chimney repointing will re-establish the structural stability of your chimney by replacing the old, decaying mortar with fresh, new material. In many cases this should forestall the need for a complete chimney rebuild and give you peace of mind for years to come. Having your chimney in Ottery St Mary repointed also helps prevent damage to the inside of your chimney, by preventing moisture from seeping through the cracks and gaps in old mortar. Most modern chimneys are steel lined and if this liner comes into contact with moisture, reduce its lifespan. Once repointing work has been accomplished, an exterior sealant should be applied which repels water and allows the release of any internal moisture.
Brick Crack Stitching
Brickwork crack stitching is a process that is used to repair cracks in brickwork structures and buildings. It involves the insertion of stainless steel rods into the mortar bed of the affected area, which are then secured using a specialized grout. By providing extra support to the vulnerable brickwork, this technique aims to prevent further cracking and extend the structure's lifespan. The steel rods used in this technique are designed to flex, enabling them to react to the structure's natural movements and absorb any stress, thus preventing further damage to the weakened brickwork. The crack stitching process can be applied to numerous structures in Ottery St Mary, including walls, bridges, arches and chimneys, for the purpose of repairing cracks and increasing structural stability. This procedure is a cost-effective and practical solution to a prevalent problem in brickwork structures, providing long-term stability and durability. This technique is appropriate for use on modern and historic buildings alike and is typically considered a preferable alternative to rebuilding or repointing, because it is more economical and less disruptive. Crack stitching has become a preferred option among homeowners and contractors due to its dependability and practicality when it comes to restoring cracks in brickwork structures and buildings.
Patch Repointing Ottery St Mary
Unlike a full-blown repoint, which involves replacing mortar across the entire structure surface, patch repointing concentrates on distinct damaged areas, making it a more focused and cost-effective method. Especially in older buildings in Ottery St Mary, patch repointing is an essential maintenance task for brickwork. Invariably, wear and weathering cause the mortar between bricks to crumble with the passing of time. Failing to tackle this deterioration will lead to the need for repairs to prevent further problems and secure the structure. Patch repointing involves raking-out the defective mortar and replacing it with new mortar, matching the original as closely as possible. By this process, the appearance of the brickwork is not only restored, but the integrity of the wall is also strengthened.
A lot of Ottery St Mary property managers and householders opt for patch repointing and pointing services to prolong the life of their buildings. For places affected by harsh weather conditions, these services are critical, as water entering and freezing in cracks can lead to serious damage. To guarantee an effective and seamless repair, the right type of mortar to match the building's age and style is carefully chosen by specialists providing these remedial services in Ottery St Mary.
Long-term cost savings can be achieved by opting to invest in patch repointing, which prevents more severe structural problems. Frequent inspections help to identify areas that require attention, allowing repairs to be conducted swiftly and effectively. Using specialist repointing services enables homeowners and property managers in Ottery St Mary to ensure their buildings are visually appealing, functional and safe for a long time to come. (Patch Repointing Ottery St Mary)
Mortar Colour Matching
The aesthetics and integrity of masonry structures are determined by the details, especially in historical or older ones. Among these details, one that stands apart in its significance is mortar colour matching. Mortar colour matching is a necessary part of any brickwork restoration project, however it is only appreciated by professionals and purists.
Mortar is the binding agent that holds together masonry products such as stones, bricks, or others. Its dual role is to ensure structural integrity and to augment the aesthetic look of the edifice. The mortar is an important part of a brick wall, as it provides structural integrity and helps to keep the bricks in place. The overall look of a building can be significantly affected by any difference in mortar colour.
When buildings are refurbished or repaired, the new mortar must be seamlessly blended with the existing one. The art and science of mortar colour matching is crucial here. Uniformity is key to maintaining the structure's original aesthetic appearance in refurbishment projects, creating the illusion that no work has taken place.
Obtaining the right colour match could be more difficult than it might first appear. Factors to bear in mind include:
- Additives: In modern mortar formulations, additives such as colouring agents and durability-improving chemicals are common, and each can change the mortar's final colour.
- Binders: Lime and cement, acting as binding agents, have an affect on the mortar's colour. The shades of the mortar can be subtly altered by varying the proportions of these materials.
- Sand: The final colour of the mortar mixture is significantly influenced by the granularity, type and colour of the sand used. Sands from different regions exhibit varying shades, making it essential to source the appropriate type of sand.
Over time, the colour of mortar can be affected by environmental conditions like temperature variations, moisture and air pollution. Hence, it's not just a matter of matching the original colour, but also foreseeing the ageing process of the new mortar in contrast to the old.
Mortar colour matching offers advantages that extend beyond simply aesthetic appeal. Problems like thermal movement or differential settling may ensue if the mortar's strength and composition are not matched. This may result in the building's structural stability being compromised over time.
In summary, it is evident that the precise colour matching of mortar is a vital element of masonry renovation, demanding both a deep understanding of technical procedures and the ability to achieve a visually harmonious result. Whether your passion is centred on restoring a crumbling family home or conserving a historical structure, achieving a flawless mortar match is the building block of success. Its value extends beyond mere aesthetics, ensuring both durability and longevity for years to come. (70707 - Mortar Colour Matching Ottery St Mary)
Ottery St Mary Repointing Tasks
Just Some of the Jobs That a Repointing Specialist Can Do
There is a variety of work that can be accomplished by your local Ottery St Mary repointing specialist including the repointing of chimneys, brickwork repointing, paint removal from brick, ribbon pointing and repointing, brick step repointing, patch repointing, lintel replacement, brickwork pointing and repointing in Ottery St Mary, valley repointing in Ottery St Mary, stone cleaning, masonry and brickwork decorating in Ottery St Mary, fireplace restoration, fireplace repointing, porch repointing, brickwork colour restoration services, ridge tile repointing, brick repointing, facade restoration in Ottery St Mary, domestic repointing, roof repointing, brick staining, the lime pointing of stonework and brickwork in Ottery St Mary, weather struck pointing and repointing, dry verge system installations, garden wall repointing, mortar rake grinding, brickwork crack stitching, re-pointing mortar joints, brick joint renovation, pointing and repointing paving, and repointing scaffolds. Listed are just some of the duties that are performed by experts in repointing. Ottery St Mary specialists will let you know their full range of repointing services.
Other Tradespeople in Ottery St Mary: Whenever you're thinking about doing improvements to your home or garden in Ottery St Mary, it's quite possible you'll need various different craftsmen during the course of the project, and although you might be currently searching for a local Ottery St Mary repointing specialist, you could also be in the market for brickwork cleaning in Ottery St Mary, groundwork in Ottery St Mary, a bricklayer in Ottery St Mary, an odd job man in Ottery St Mary, SKIP HIRE in Ottery St Mary, damp proofing in Ottery St Mary, stone cleaning in Ottery St Mary, a plumber in Ottery St Mary, a carpenter and joiner in Ottery St Mary, a plasterer in Ottery St Mary, a window fitter in Ottery St Mary, waste removal in Ottery St Mary, scaffolding in Ottery St Mary, and more.
Repointing Specialists Near Ottery St Mary
Also find: West Hill repointing, Gosford repointing, Feniton repointing, Aylesbeare repointing, Fairmile repointing, Higher Metcombe repointing, Cobden repointing, Sidbury repointing, Rockbeare repointing, Fluxton repointing, Aller Grove repointing, Whimple repointing, Perkin's Village repointing, Wiggaton repointing, Southbrook repointing, Lancercombe repointing, Alfington repointing, East Hill repointing, Metcombe repointing, Putts Corner repointing, Clyst St Lawrence repointing, Fenny Bridges repointing, Taleford repointing, Cadhay repointing and more. There are building companies who specialise in repointing near to all these villages and towns. With their exceptional skills, these specialists can rejuvenate your brick walls, giving them a fresh, like-new appearance. Is your brickwork longing for a facelift? Give it the facelift it deserves with the specialist expertise of a professional. Say farewell to crumbling and hello to charming once more! Local householders can get price quotes by going here.
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