Stone buildings require a sympathetic approach to repointing. The wrong mortar can trap moisture, accelerate stone decay and dramatically alter the appearance and character of the property.
At SGT Repointing Solutions, we provide specialist stone repointing services throughout Kent and Sussex, helping to preserve traditional stonework using suitable materials and traditional methods.
Whether your property is constructed from sandstone, flint, ragstone or mixed historic masonry, we carefully assess the condition of the wall and recommend suitable mortars and finishes to suit the structure.
Repointing traditional stone walls, heritage buildings, lime mortar masonry and weathered stone elevations.
The mortar within a stone wall plays a major role in how the structure performs. Traditional stonework was often designed to work with breathable lime mortar that allows moisture to evaporate naturally through the joints.
When mortar begins to fail, open joints can allow increased water penetration into the wall, leading to frost damage, movement, vegetation growth and deterioration of the stone itself.
Correctly repointing stone masonry helps protect the structure while maintaining the original character and appearance of the building.
Traditional stonework often suffers when inappropriate materials or unsuitable repairs have been used previously.
Weathered mortar allows increased water ingress into the stone wall structure.
Hard cement mortar can trap moisture and accelerate deterioration of softer stone faces.
Inflexible mortars can contribute to cracking and stress within older masonry walls.
Failed joints can allow moss, weeds and organic growth to develop within the masonry.
Dense cement repairs can prevent traditional walls from drying naturally.
Incorrect pointing styles or mortar colours can significantly alter the appearance of heritage stonework.
Many traditional stone buildings perform best when repointed using suitable breathable lime mortars.
Lime mortar allows moisture to evaporate naturally through the joints rather than becoming trapped within the stone.
Because lime mortar is generally softer and more flexible than cement, it can also help reduce stress within older masonry structures.
The correct mortar mix depends on the type of stone, age of the building, site exposure and condition of the wall.
We inspect the existing mortar, stone condition and previous repair work before recommending suitable repairs.
We choose a suitable mortar mix based on the stone type, age and exposure of the structure.
Failed mortar is carefully removed to minimise damage to surrounding stone edges and surfaces.
Fresh mortar is compacted correctly into the joints and finished in a suitable traditional style.
Every stone building behaves differently, which is why we tailor our repointing methods to suit the individual structure and masonry type.
Our aim is always to provide durable and visually sympathetic repairs that preserve the character and long-term health of the building.
If your stonework has weathered joints, failing mortar or previous cement repairs, SGT Repointing Solutions can help restore the masonry correctly.
Contact Us About Stone Repointing