Find a Repointing Specialist near you
The average rating for Bark Repointing Specialists is 4.72, based on 8,092 reviews
5/5
based on 8,092 reviews
Is your property in need of repointing but you’re not sure how much it will cost? Read our handy guide to find out how much your builder will charge for their services.
Cold Canadian winters combined with old age can cause damage to buildings that are made from brick, including the mortar that holds the bricks together.
Repointing is the process of removing old mortar in brickwork and refilling it with new mortar. As well as looking unsightly, damaged or missing mortar can make your property more susceptible to moisture making its way into the building. If this happens, it can lead to a damp and cold property, plus potential damage to its foundations.
Having repointing done will instantly refresh the look of your property while future-proofing it against various moisture-related conditions. Repointing must be carried out by a trained professional to ensure the new mortar is applied correctly and neatly. Repointing can be carried out on any building that is made from brick or stone, with older properties commonly in need of the service.
The cost of repointing starts at $450 for smaller jobs and up to $4,900 for substantial projects. The average cost for a typical project is $1,300 nationally.
| Average cost | $1,300 |
| Minimum cost | $450 |
| Maximum cost | $4,900 |
When working out the cost of repointing, your contractor will factor in the size of the area they need to work with. Plus, the accessibility of the building, as scaffolding is usually required.
The cost will cover the raking out of the old mortar and the application of the new mortar, which includes the smoothing out process.
There are various smoothing out techniques (pointing styles) that the contractor can use which will affect the finish of the job, though certain methods can be more expensive if they take longer to complete.
The cost of repointing varies depending on several factors, including:
Type of job
Condition of the masonry
Materials used
Scaffolding
Pointing style
Experience
Location
The type of job will have the biggest impact on the cost of repointing since it will determine how much materials, time and labour is required.
Smaller jobs such as patios can cost as little as $250 to complete. Repointing your patio will extend its lifespan, and this service is ideal to combine with a powerwash clean too.
On the other end of the scale, if your entire property needs repointing then this can cost up to $7,200 on average. Usually, only a small section needs repointing. However, if you want to achieve a uniform look across your entire property, complete repointing may be necessary.
| Type of job | Highest average price | Lowest average price |
| Chimneys | $1,000 | $750 |
| Foundations | $1,200 | $900 |
| Patios | $450 | $250 |
| External stairs | $750 | $400 |
| Average size wall | $1,800 | $1,200 |
| House | $7,200 | $4,900 |
The damage to your mortar might be worse in some places, and non-existent in others. Where possible, get repointing done as soon as you notice an issue. Otherwise, if the problem is left to get particularly bad, it will cost more to remedy.
There are various times of mortar available that can be used for repointing. Each has different suitability and costs associated, so ask your contractor what the options would be for your particular property.
Scaffolding is almost always required for any repointing job since your builder will need to scale up high to complete the work. Though, the cost of the scaffolding will usually be included as part of the overall quote.
Pointing can be completed in a variety of finishes to match the style of the building. You may also have a preference based on your taste.
Styles of pointing include:
Flush pointing
Weathered pointing
Keyed pointing
V-groove pointing
Beaded pointing
Struck pointing
Recessed pointing
Tuckpointing
Some styles are more difficult to complete than others. If so, they will require more time, expertise, and possibly labour and will cost more than simpler styles.
Anyone who undertakes repointing should be a qualified contractor. However, there is also a huge difference between someone who is newly qualified and a builder with decades of experience.
When it comes to repointing heritage properties, in particular, not all builders will have the experience to work with the quirks and demands of the building. So consider the experience of the professional carefully, instead of going on price alone.
The cost of repointing is usually charged per row of bricks. Above the roofline, this can cost between $20 and $50 depending on the complexity of the job. However, location also plays a part since each area of Canada has different living costs.
Going on the typical price of a repointing job, the cheapest place is Yellowknife at $950. The most expensive place is Toronto at $1,350. The total price takes into account the cost of materials and labour.
| Location | Average repointing cost |
| Calgary | $1,200 |
| Toronto | $1,350 |
| Winnipeg | $1,175 |
| Quebec City | $1,225 |
| Yellowknife | $950 |
It’s possible to alter the cost by choosing a different mortar type, which can help you manage the cost of the project. Keep in mind, the mortar type will need to suit the style of the building, and there may be limitations in place for protected buildings. Check with your local government to see if any such restrictions are in place before you begin work.
For buildings that are made of brick, the mortar is quite literally the glue that holds the entire structure together. If you’ve noticed the mortar on your property has broken off or worn down, then it’s time to take action. It is not recommended to complete repointing or retucking unless you’re an expert, as you could cause further damage to the structure of the building. By having repointing carried out by a professional, you will enhance the look of the property while protecting it from serious issues. When completed to a high standard, repointing can last up to 50 years making it a worthwhile investment into your property.
Find the best professional for the job on Bark today.
The average rating for Bark Repointing Specialists is 4.72, based on 8,092 reviews
5/5
based on 8,092 reviews
