Types of Pointing Finishes

Flush pointing is the most common type of pointing and it is used to create a smooth, even surface on the mortar. The mortar is pressed flush with the face of the wall but it is not water-resistant. It is best used when the wall is to be plastered or when the joints are to be hidden under paint.

Tuck pointing is a restoration process that is used to improve the appearance of brick and mortar joints. It can also help to protect and preserve the mortar in these joints, which in turn extends the lifespan of the mortar and the overall structure of the building.

Tuck pointing finishes feature a thin line of lime putty is applied over the restored mortar joints, which gives the impression of perfect brickwork. This type of restoration is common amongst heritage buildings in Sydney .

Tuck pointing is a skilled traditional art that is labour intensive and requires the utmost precision and patience to deliver. 

Beaded pointing is a type of mortar joint that is created by pressing mortar into a joint of brickwork. The mortar is then rounded off with a beaded tool, which gives it its distinctive appearance. This type of joint is not as water-resistant as some of the other designs, but it is considered to be more aesthetically pleasing by casting interesting shadows.

Weathered pointing is a type of mortar joint that is created by pressing mortar into a joint of brickwork on an angle sloping downward from the brick above. This type of joint is considered to be aesthetically pleasing, commonly used on older-styled buildings, as it can help to give the impression of age and character.

Keyed pointing is a type of mortar joint that is pressed into the mortar with a pointed tool, which leaves a curved arc groove in the mortar. This type of pointing gives the wall an excellent exterior look. It is used especially for the best type of work for vertical joints of walls.

Steel bars are often used to give a semi-circular shape to the keyed pointing, this can often enhance the appearance of the wall. This type of keyed pointing is most commonly used for the exterior walls of a building. It provides a strong and durable joint that is capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions.

V-grooved pointing is a construction technique that is used to create a V-shaped groove in the joints of brickwork walls. This technique is often used to repair damaged brickwork joints, as it can help to improve the overall appearance and stability of the wall. V-grooved pointing can also be used to prevent water infiltration, as the V-shaped groove helps to direct water away from the wall.

Struck pointing is a type of masonry joint that is formed when the bottom edge of the mortar joint is recessed allowing the top of the next brick edge to stick out slightly. This can also create aesthetically pleasing shadows that enhance the masonry, however, it is not as weather resistant as it allows water to sit on the top side of the brickwork.

A type of mortar joint that is characterised by its depressed or recessed appearance. This type of pointing is created by pushing the mortar into the joint with a special tool called a recessing tool. This tool makes a concave groove in the mortar.

Concave pointing is common in both residential and commercial buildings. It can be used on any type of masonry wall, including brick, stone and concrete. The size and depth of the recessed point can also be used to achieve a variety of different looks, depending on how far and wide the joint is.

 Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=81475205

Keystone Pointing primarily focuses on two types of pointing finishes, this is the concave finish and the flush finish, when used in conjunction with a tuckpointed brickwork finish.

We also typically offer the weathered and raked pointing types as they also offer benefits in terms of structural stability and long term effectiveness.

Ideally we will match the existing mortar and pointing style on your property.

Give us a call 0437 505 423  to discuss your repointing  and tuckpointing requirements in Sydney.