Repointing Services by Masonry Markham: Protecting Your Home's Integrity

At Masonry Markham, we specialize in repointing brick, mortar, stone foundations, and chimneys to restore and preserve the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your property. Our repointing services are a vital part of maintaining masonry structures, ensuring that your home or building in Markham, ON remains in excellent condition for years to come. Whether it's a historic property in Old Thornhill or a modern home in Cornell, we offer the expert services needed to keep your brickwork and stone foundations in top shape.

What Is Repointing?

Repointing involves removing old or deteriorating mortar from between bricks, stones, or blocks and replacing it with fresh mortar. Over time, the mortar that holds these materials together can erode due to weather exposure, moisture, and general wear and tear. By repointing, we prevent water infiltration, which can lead to further damage, such as cracks, instability, and even structural collapse.

What Time of Year is Best for Repointing?

The best time for repointing masonry is typically during the warmer months of spring, summer, and early fall. In Markham, the ideal repointing season spans from May to October, when temperatures range between 10°C and 25°C. The reason warmer weather is preferred is that mortar requires consistent temperatures and humidity levels to cure properly. Freezing temperatures can cause newly applied mortar to crack or weaken, which is why we avoid repointing in winter. By scheduling your project during the warmer months, we ensure that the work is completed efficiently and effectively.

Is Repointing Brick Expensive?

The repointing brick cost varies depending on several factors, including the size of the area, the height of the structure, and the type of mortar used. On average, homeowners in Markham can expect to pay between $8 and $15 per square foot for standard brick repointing. This may increase for projects involving taller chimneys or historic homes where special care is required.

While the initial cost of repointing brick may seem significant, it is a much more affordable option compared to the potential costs of not addressing the issue. Neglecting deteriorating mortar can lead to more severe structural problems down the line, including water damage, crumbling brick, and the need for extensive masonry reconstruction.

Repointing Services We Offer

1. Repointing Brick: Our brick repointing services are designed to restore the durability and appearance of your home’s brickwork. Whether it’s a wall, a chimney, or a façade, we use high-quality mortar that matches the original in texture and colour, ensuring a seamless finish.
   
2. Repointing Mortar: Mortar plays a critical role in holding masonry units together. We expertly remove damaged or crumbling mortar and replace it with new, high-grade material that is specifically chosen for your property’s unique needs.

3. Repointing Chimney: Repointing chimney structures in Markham is essential for maintaining safety and functionality. Chimneys are particularly susceptible to weather damage, especially during Markham’s cold winters. Our team will ensure that your chimney remains secure and free from moisture penetration.

4. Repointing Stone Foundation: Homes in Markham’s heritage districts, such as Unionville, often have stone foundations. Over time, the mortar in these foundations can erode, compromising the structure's stability. Our masonry services will reinforce these foundations, ensuring long-term durability.

What Are the Problems with Repointing?

While repointing is an essential maintenance task, there are potential issues if the job is not done properly:

1. Incorrect Mortar Mix: Using the wrong type of mortar can cause more harm than good. Modern mortar mixes are often too hard for older brickwork, leading to cracks and damage. At Masonry Markham, we use historically appropriate materials and techniques to ensure compatibility with your property’s existing structure.

2. Aesthetic Mismatch: Inexperienced contractors may not match the colour or texture of the original mortar, resulting in a patchy, uneven look. Our team takes great care to match the new mortar to the existing one, preserving the building’s visual appeal.

3. Incomplete Removal of Old Mortar: If the old mortar is not fully removed before applying new material, the new mortar won’t adhere properly, leading to premature failure. Our skilled masons meticulously remove the old mortar, ensuring a solid, lasting bond.

Why Choose Masonry Markham for Your Repointing Needs?

At Masonry Markham, we take pride in offering top-tier repointing masonry services to the Markham community. Our experienced masons understand the specific challenges posed by Markham’s climate and architectural styles, and we tailor our services to meet these needs. We offer free estimates for all repointing projects, so you can understand the costs and scope of your project before committing.