Lime Mortar Repointing – Newcastle & North East – Lime Repointing
Expert Lime Mortar Repointing & Lime Pointing Services in North East England
We offer professional lime mortar and lime repointing services in Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland and surrounding areas in North East England. With over 24 years experience we pride ourselves on customer satisfaction, providing an expert service at a competitive price. Our craftsmen specialise in lime mortar repointing for various structures such as residential properties, homes, historical buildings, heritage listed buildings, churches, castles, farmhouses and all other local buildings and architecture.
Lime repointing is usually required due to the deterioration of existing lime mortar joints, as over time, exposure to weather, moisture, and environmental factors cause the mortar in these joints to deteriorate, crack, or crumble. Lime mortar repointing restores structural integrity, stability and appearance of brickwork and stonework.
Using the correct lime mortar mix that matches and compliments the materials used within the structure is highly important. Our expert craftsmen will carefully select and formulate the correct lime mortar mix suitable for the current structure and job at hand.
Local areas we service include:
Jesmond, Spital Tongues, Arthurs Hill, Heaton, West Jesmond – also covering all locations within Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, Tyneside and Gateshead.
Professional Lime Repointing Contractors
- Expert lime repointing contractors
- All lime repointing work undertaken
- 24+ years experience
- High quality craftsmanship & Competitive pricing
- Lime mortar mixed specifically to your building
- Preserves structural integrity, prevents further deterioration & improves aesthetic
- Conservation & heritage approved materials
- Natural-based & eco-friendly products
- Fully insured services
- Customer satisfaction guarantee
- Free assessment & Quotes
Repointing Service Areas
We operate across the following areas and surrounding locations…
- North East England
- Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Northumberland
- North Tyneside
- South Tyneside
- Gateshead
- Wallsend
- North Shields
- Killingworth
- Shiremoor
- Tynemouth
- Whitley Bay
- Ponteland
- Morpeth
- Hexham
- Tynedale
- Blyth
- Seaton Valley
- Alnwick
Hydraulic Lime Repointing
Hydraulic lime mortar (also known as semi-hydraulic lime mortar) is strong, durable, environmentally friendly, and resistant to weathering. Hydraulic lime mortar mixes usually consist of lime, sand and hydraulic or pozzolanic additives. Hydraulic lime repointing is often required for external buildings and structures that are exposed to moisture and weathering, such as buildings within rural and coastal environments. This lime mix is suited to both historic and modern buildings and structures. .
The lime in hydraulic lime mortar is set by a mixture of carbonation and hydraulic processes, meaning it sets and hardens via contact with water. This mortar is stronger and more durable than pure lime, which makes it ideal for buildings constructed after the 18th century. The hydraulic lime mortar is breathable, which allows moisture to escape and offers enhanced weather resistance. The moderate porosity of hydraulic lime mortar makes it compatible with many building materials including cob, brick and stone. Hydraulic lime mortar is flexible enough to accommodate minor structural movement, which reduces the cracking risk. It is typically used to repoint buildings from the Georgian, Victorian and early industrial eras.
Pure Lime Mortar (Non-Hydraulic Lime) Repointing
Pure lime mortar mix is made up of aggregate and pure lime, with no additives. This mix is often used for historical buildings that predate the 19th Century, when lime mortars were traditionally used. The pure lime mortar allows moisture to escape from walls and prevents moisture buildup. The porosity of pure lime mortar allows it to be compatible with building materials that are softer and more absorbent, such as old bricks or softer stone such as sandstone and limestone. Pure lime mortar is flexible and allows the building to move slightly without cracking or causing damage. It is used to repoint historic buildings, such as castles and churches, often dating from medieval times.
Heritage Lime Mix Repointing
Heritage mortar mixes can be tailored to replicate the mortar formulation of specific historical buildings. The mixes are made up of lime putty and lime hydraulic lime to accurately replicate the properties of original mortar. Heritage lime mixes are authentic and compatible with existing materials.
Heritage lime mix repointing offers good strength, breathability, flexibility, and good porosity, allowing moisture to evaporate; helping to prevent damage caused by trapped moisture. Heritage lime mixes preserve the historical value and integrity of a building. Repointing heritage and listed buildings, such as stately homes and manors is essential to the maintenance of the building.
Northumbrian Lime Mix Repointing
Northumbrian Mix is a variation of lime mortar that is widely used within Northumberland and rural areas throughout North East England. The mortar is usually composed of hydraulic lime and sharp sand. Sometimes, it also contains additives such as animal hair and pozzolans to improve strength and workability. Northumbrian Mix is breathable, and allows moisture to escape the wall, which in the damp climate of the area, is essential. The moderate porosity of Northumbrian mix ensures compatibility for the predominant building materials in the region, including sandstone or limestone. Northumbrian Lime Mix is flexible enough to accommodate structural movement caused by external factors. This reduces the chance of failure of mortar. It is used to repoint historic Northumberland farmhouses, outbuildings, cottages and other local structures, some of which can date back to the Middle Ages.
Our Repointing Process
Evaluation & Quote
Firstly we will evaluate your property to understand the current condition of the building or structure; the building materials originally used, mortar type and colour, and the extent of the existing damage or deterioration to the mortar joints. We will also establish the area size and whether equipment such as scaffolding or access machinery is required for the job. We will then provide you with a detailed quote.
Preparation
When you have accepted the quote and signed your agreement we will begin work within our agreed timeframe (weather permitting). We will start by thoroughly preparing the area and assembling any required access equipment. Our craftsmen will then carefully remove all the existing damaged, loose, or deteriorated mortar joints with a chisel or a grinder. The area is then brushed off, cleared and is now ready to be repointed.
Restoration
Our craftsmen will carefully comprise and mix mortar that is specific to your property repair. The mortar will match the material used when your property was constructed, also matching the original colour as closely as possible. Breathable lime-based mortar mixes are most commonly applied but this can vary. Your property is then repointed and the joints finished to specification. Finally the joints are brushed and the area cleared and tidied. Job done! 🙂
Why choose NE Repointing Services?
Expert Repointing
Contractors
NE Repointing Services are a team of highly skilled, professional repointing contractors that have the necessary knowledge and skills required to correctly assess and successfully complete any repointing project within Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyneside, Northumberland and North East England.
24+ Years
Experience
Our experienced repointing contractors have over 24 years industry experience bricklaying, brickwork repointing, stonework repointing, repointing houses, farm houses, stone barns, listed buildings and numerous other brickwork and stonework structures throughout Northumberland and North East England.
Professional
& Reliable
NE Repointing Services endeavour to deliver a professional and reliable service throughout every step of your repointing project. Our staff are polite, punctual and adhere to our agreed timeline wherever possible. Using the highest quality materials we guarantee quality craftsmanship on every job.
Fully Insured
Services
Rest assured with peace of mind knowing that our team of repointing contractors are fully insured for any damages caused to your home or property; in the unlikely event of any damages occurring to the property during, or as a result of works that are carried out by our team your property is fully covered.
All Works
Guaranteed
All of our structural repointing work includes a minimum 10-year guarantee. Extended guarantees may be available, but the duration depends on factors such as the condition of surrounding materials, structural integrity, ground conditions, water levels, environmental exposure and the property’s location. Patio repointing carries a shorter guarantee due to natural wear.
Customer
Guarantee
NE Repointing Services are focused strongly on customer satisfaction and guarantee that all of our customers will be 100% satisfied with all works carried out inline with our agreed contract. Unfortunately we cant guarantee the weather, but we will always endeavour to complete every project on time, within budget and to the highest possible standards.
Lime Mortar Repointing FAQ
Which lime mortar is most suitable for repointing listed or heritage buildings?
The type of lime mortar that is required to repoint listed or heritage buildings will differ and is determined by the materials that were originally used to construct that particular building. In order to repoint your building correctly our craftsmen will formulate a specific mix that matches the materials used within the original build.
What are the signs that my building requires repointing work?
Repointing is required when you see signs such as missing or crumbling mortar, gaps in bricks or stones, or water leakage. We can evaluate the condition of your building and make recommendations.
Will new lime repointing look different or change the appearance of my building?
Our craftsman will match the make-up and colour of the original material as closely as possible. Lime repointing will compliment the existing stonework or brickwork of the building, however, the colour and texture of the new lime mortar may slightly differ from the original, and will appear fresher; as it does not contain any dirt, moss or other environmental contaminants.
What color and texture of mortar can you match?
Our skilled artisans can certainly match the texture, color and composition of existing mortar in order to create a seamless blend with surrounding masonry.
Which types of lime mortar do you use?
Our lime mortars are available in a variety of mixes including hydraulic lime mortars, pure lime mortars, and heritage mixes. We also have regional mixes like Northumbrian mixes that we use to match different building materials and historical periods.
Are the materials you use eco-friendly?
Lime mortar can be used for repointing. It is an environmentally-friendly and sustainable choice. Natural, recyclable and emitting minimal amounts of carbon during its production, lime mortar is a great choice for repointing.
How often should lime mortar joints be repointed?
All brick or stone buildings will require repointing at some point in time but the frequency will depend on various factors such as the age of the building, the condition of the original lime mortar, and environmental conditions. Good quality lime repointing can last over 100 years.
How long does lime repointing take?
Each lime repointing job is unique and will largely depend on as the size of the area that requires repointing, the extent of the existing mortar deterioration, ease of access, and weather conditions. Small lime repointing jobs can be done within days, whereas larger jobs can take several weeks. After your first consultation, our team will give you a timeline.
Does lime mortar work well for building modern homes?
Lime mortar can be used in modern construction, although it is more commonly found on historic buildings.
How long will lime mortar last after repointing?
Repointing with lime mortar can last several decades, sometimes up to 100 years depending upon factors like exposure to the weather and general property maintenance. Most lime mortar repointing should last up to 50 years.
Are you able to offer a guarantee on the repointing?
We guarantee our work and stand by the quality to give our customers peace of mind and satisfaction.
Can lime repointing improve the energy efficiency of my home or building?
Yes, lime repointing can improve the energy efficiency of your home by sealing cracks and gaps, reducing air leakage and damp, and by helping to prevent surface heat loss.
How much does lime repointing cost?
The cost of lime mortar repointing will depend on various factors such as the size and complexity of the job, accessibility, preparation work required, the type of lime mortar mix used, and labour costs. Typically lime mortar repointing can cost anywhere between £40 - £80 per m².