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Repointing Brickwork

Posted by Tracy Tomlinson, on
My kitchen is an extension built with red brick (8" thick). I have damp coming through the walls from outside - I've had an engineer look at it and it isn't rising damp and is coming from the bricks outside where rain is getting in via the mortar. I just need a little advice as to how much I would be looking at. The kitchen is roughly 11 foot by 6 and it would only be one side. Thanks, Tracy.
David White-Miller

David White-Miller

Hi Tracy The first thing you need to establish, what is the original binder..(mortar) If it is a solid wall then it will be lime mortar. In my experience problems only arise when these joints have been repointed using cement mortar. Firstly, lime mortar and cement mortar are totally incompatible, no adhesion takes place. Secondly, cement mortar inhibits moisture evaporation from the joints and I suspect this is the root of your problem. If I can be of any further assistance feel free to contact me. David

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