Making Old Brickwork Look New Again

Words: Mackenzie ClaassenPhotos: MARSHALLTOWN

Brickwork is built to last, but mortar isn’t. Over time, exposure to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and everyday wear causes joints to crack, crumble, and even recede. What starts as a cosmetic issue can quickly turn into a structural concern if left unaddressed.

That’s where repointing comes in. By removing deteriorated mortar and replacing it with fresh material, you will restore both the strength and appearance of the structure. While most attention goes to trowels and jointers, experienced tradespeople know that brushes also play a critical role from start to finish.

Remove Old Mortar
Removing old mortar, commonly referred to as “raking out,” can be done with a hammer and plugging chisel, a joint raker, or a grinder fitted with a raking bit. The choice depends on the hardness of the mortar and the size of the project.

Regardless of the tools used, the goal is to remove roughly ½" to ¾" of material to give the new mortar enough space to grip. It’s best to work in sections to maintain control and avoid compromising the integrity of the surrounding brickwork.

Once the joints are cleared, the surface may look ready, but there is still an important step to complete. Fine dust and debris left behind can interfere with the new mortar and need to be swept away.

Brush Away Dust and Debris
A stiff masonry brush is a great option for sweeping out joints and removing all remaining debris. This step will directly impact how well the new mortar bonds. Any dust left behind can weaken that bond.

The ideal brush for this task should feature firm, durable bristles capable of reaching deep into joints without damaging the edges of the brick. It’s not just about cleaning the surface but also about preparing it for a long-lasting repair.

Managing Moisture
Once the joints are clean, the same brush takes on a second, equally important role: controlling moisture. This is done by dipping the brush in water and dampening the bricks and joints. For the best finish, new mortar needs to retain its moisture to prevent it from becoming brittle, setting too quickly, and reducing its strength. New mortar sets best between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Mixing New Mortar
With the surface prepped, it’s now time to mix the mortar. Mixing should always follow the manufacturer's specifications. The desired consistency of mortar is thick and workable, similar to oatmeal, holding its shape without being overly stiff.

Matching the existing mortar in both composition and color is just as important. A close match ensures the repair blends seamlessly with the surrounding brickwork, maintaining a uniform appearance.

Inserting New Mortar and Tooling the Joint
Using a hawk or trowel and a tuck pointer, pack fresh mortar firmly into the joints. Proper compaction is important to eliminate voids and ensure a strong bond.

Once filled, the joints are shaped using a jointer or slicker to match the existing profile, whether concave, V-shaped, or more decorative styles. This step not only enhances the look but also improves water resistance by creating a tighter seal.

Brushes in the Finishing Phase
As the mortar begins to set, brushes once again become essential.

A softer masonry or bucket brush is used to lightly sweep across the surface, removing excess mortar and blending the new work with the old. The goal is to clean the brick faces without disturbing the joints. Do this by using light, horizontal strokes to help feather the edges and create a uniform finish. Too much pressure can pull mortar from the joints, while too little may leave behind unwanted residue. A properly brushed finish gives the repair a professional appearance.

Cleanup and Maintenance
Once the work is complete, tools should be cleaned immediately. Mortar left to harden on tools can be difficult to remove and may shorten their lifespan. A sturdy scrub brush paired with soapy water makes this process quick and efficient.

If a light haze develops on the brick surface after curing, it can be taken care of with a masonry cleaner and an acid-resistant brush. These specialized brushes are designed to handle harsh cleaning agents while maintaining their shape.

Curing for Lasting Strength
Proper curing is the final step in the process. Over the next several days, lightly misting the repaired area helps the mortar cure slowly, reducing the risk of cracking and improving overall strength.

While this step is often done with a sprayer, a brush can still be useful for gently redistributing moisture or touching up small areas as needed.

Repointing is often thought of as a task requiring only a trowel and mortar, but brushes are involved in nearly every stage, including cleaning, prepping, finishing, and maintaining. Each type of brush serves a specific purpose, and choosing the right one can make the work more efficient and the results more consistent.

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Making Old Brickwork Look New Again

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