Hollow Two Brick Pier – Joints Recessed and Repointed CORE 1 of 3

1. Establish position of pier and with the aid of a builder’s square establish a 90 degree angle.

2. Establish the size of pier required and mark of the lengths (a) and (b) in cement screed.

3. Spread screeds for remaining two sides and using parallel dimensions mark off opposing lengths.

4. Check the squareness by measuring diagonals.

5. Recheck the overall dimensions and diagonals on top of first course.

DIAGRAMS E

‘Jointing’ is the term used for the treatment of mortar joints at the time the bricks are laid, using the bedding mortar to form the joint.

‘Pointing’ is the term used for the treatment of mortar joints that were recessed when the wall was built, to be refilled and treated at a later stage.

Correct recessing of the joints is a vital part of successful pointing.

Joints should be recessed fully to a depth of 15mm and brushed clean to ensure a good bond can be achieved when the ‘pointing’ is carried out.

There are several method for carrying out the recessing but, whichever method is used care must be taken to avoid damage to the arris of the brick, especially with soft handmade bricks.

Pointing is one of the most skill areas to become proficient at. It requires a great deal of practice to achieve a satisfactory finish.

There is a set sequence to pointing and it should always be followed.

Always start at the highest point of the wall.

Taking about 1 metre depth at a time, remove the mortar stains or loose mortar from the joints ad face of brick/ Care must be taken not to damage the face or soft bricks.

Wet the wall face starting at the top. The amount of water used will depend on the absorption rate of the bricks. Allow for water to be fully absorbed from the face of the wall before beginning the pointing.

Using the hawk and small pointing trowel, apply mortar to the cross joints first. Finish each joint by compressing and ironing the mortar with the trowel until it is slightly indented on the left hand side of the joint. Complete about 1m2 at a time.

In the same manner, fill the bed joints and compress and iron in with the top of the joint slightly cut back behind the arris of the brick above.

Once the joint has set it should be lightly brushed to remove any surplus mortar.

The areas suggested in these notes will vary depending upon the absorption rate of the brickwork. Experience will tell you the area which should be tackled.

The practice of washing buildings down on their completion with a brick cleaning agent has become more frequent in recent years.

If you are involved in this operation you must take the following precautions:

1. Follow manufactures application instructions to the letter.

2. Wear rubber gloves.

3. Wear eye protection.

4. Wear full cover overalls ensuring no part of your flesh is exposed.