Lime mortar, one of the most traditional materials used for repointing services, is a popular choice due to its breathability and flexibility. For centuries, lime mortar has been the most commonly used material for house repointing in Sheffield. Why use lime mortar? The composition of lime mortar consists of a mixture of lime, sand and water, and hence it is used as a binding agent between bricks and stones in every construction project.
The lime used in lime mortar is generally fine-grained sand, mixed with hydrated lime to produce mortar, which is applied between the bricks and stones.
Why Use Lime Mortar for Repointing Services?
Permeability
Lime mortar is permeable. Unlike cement-based options, lime mortar allows moisture to move inside through the joints of the structure. The application of lime mortar helps prevent damp and water damage, protecting the structural integrity of the house. Moreover, lime mortar is less likely to crack or peel. Hence, your house is less vulnerable to water damage with lime mortar applied to it.
Durability
Lime mortar is highly durable and strong, providing excellent support to the houses where it has been used for repointing services. It is more resistant to weathering and untimely erosion compared to other types of mortar. Hence, the application of lime mortar for repointing services will give you complete peace of mind for decades.
Flexibility
Lime mortar is more flexible and softer compared to its cement-based counterparts. Hence, it is used especially in old properties for repointing. Old structures generally move and shift over time. With lime mortar used for repointing services, you can accommodate the structure’s movements without compromising its integrity or causing damage.
Aesthetics
Lime mortar, being a softer material compared to cement-based material, gives a professional, even and uniform appearance to the exteriors of the property. Applying lime mortar during the repointing service gives the exteriors of the structure a natural look. Hence, this type of mortar is preferred, especially in older properties. You can expect a flawless repointing service if the professional uses lime mortar on your exteriors.
Compatibility
Repointing with cement-based materials will lend a contemporary finish to the exteriors of thr house. Hence, it is not a compatible material for the historic structures. In case you’ve a Victorian home, ask the experts to opt for lime mortar instead of the cement mortar. Lime is compatible, especially with old structures.
How to repoint with lime mortar?
Remove old mortar
The experts will carefully remove the old mortar from the joints without damaging the bricks and stones.
Clean joints
They will clean the joints and dampen them by spraying water before applying new coats of lime mortar on the joints.
Mix mortar
Mix and combine the lime mortar in the appropriate ratio, then add water slowly to achieve the proper consistency and thickness of the mortar.
Apply mortar
The experts will apply mortar to the joints and then compact it to secure them properly. Once the application process is completed, they will brush off the excess mortar from the bricks with a dry brush.
Do you want the home’s exteriors to look aesthetically pleasing? Contact Chesterfield Brickwork Plus. We have years of experience in offering house repointing in Sheffield.