Chiseling out pointing brick can be a challenging but necessary task when it comes to maintaining the integrity and appearance of your brickwork. Over time, the mortar between the bricks may deteriorate, becoming cracked or damaged. By chiseling out the old mortar and repointing the bricks, you can ensure that your brickwork remains in top condition.
Before you begin, it is important to gather the necessary tools for the job. You will need a hammer and chisel, safety goggles, and a dust mask to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, it is advisable to use a masonry drill with a wide-headed chisel attachment for larger areas.
Once you have gathered your tools, you can start by carefully chiseling away the old pointing mortar. It is important to chisel at a downward angle to avoid damaging the bricks. Use a light tapping motion with the hammer, gradually removing the mortar without applying excessive force. Take your time and work systematically, focusing on one brick at a time.
After chiseling out the old mortar, you can then prepare the area for repointing. Use a brush to remove any loose debris and dust, ensuring a clean surface for the new mortar. It is important to create a bond between the new mortar and the brick, so wet the area with water before applying the new mortar.
In conclusion, chiseling out pointing brick is a task that requires patience and attention to detail. By following these steps and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can successfully remove and replace the old mortar, preserving the longevity and appearance of your brickwork.
Step 1: Prepare Your Tools
Before you begin chiseling out pointing brick, it’s important to make sure you have the necessary tools on hand. Here are the tools you’ll need:
- A brick chisel or cold chisel
- A claw hammer
- A stiff brush
- A pointing trowel
- A mortar mix or pointing compound
- A bucket for mixing the mortar
- A sponge
- Water
- Safety goggles and gloves
Having all of these tools ready before you start will ensure that you can complete the job efficiently and effectively. Make sure that your tools are clean and in good condition. If any of the tools are damaged or worn, it’s a good idea to replace them before starting the project.
Step 2: Assess the Condition
Before you start chiseling out pointing bricks, it’s important to assess the condition of the area. This will help you determine the extent of the work required and the tools you’ll need.
1. Inspect the bricks
Take a close look at the pointing bricks that you plan to chisel out. Look for any cracks, loose bricks, or signs of deterioration. If the bricks are severely damaged, you may need to replace them instead of just re-pointing.
2. Check for any structural issues
Examine the surrounding area for any structural issues that might be causing the pointing bricks to deteriorate. This could include water damage, foundation problems, or issues with the mortar. If you discover any underlying problems, it’s important to address them before proceeding with the chiseling work.
3. Evaluate the mortar condition
Assess the condition of the mortar between the bricks. Look for any gaps, cracks, or crumbling mortar. If the mortar is in poor condition, it will need to be completely removed and replaced.
By thoroughly assessing the condition of the pointing bricks, the surrounding area, and the mortar, you’ll be able to plan your chiseling work more effectively and ensure the best results.
Step 3: Start Chiseling
Once you have prepared the area and gathered all the necessary tools, it is time to start chiseling out the pointing brick. Before you begin, make sure you are wearing safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself.
Start by positioning the chisel against the pointing brick at a slight angle. Use a hammer to gently tap the chisel, creating a small indentation in the mortar. This will help guide your chisel as you begin removing the mortar.
Hold the chisel at a 45-degree angle and use a hammer to carefully strike the chisel, driving it into the mortar joint. Be careful not to strike too hard, as this can damage the surrounding bricks.
Apply consistent pressure to the chisel and work in small sections at a time. Use a rubbing motion to help loosen the mortar, and be patient as you work your way along the joint.
As you chisel, periodically check the depth of the mortar joint. Aim to remove approximately half an inch of mortar, but be cautious not to go too deep and damage the bricks.
If you encounter stubborn or hard-to-reach mortar, you can use a small masonry grinder to help remove it. Be cautious when using power tools and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.
Continue chiseling and grinding until you have removed all the old mortar and created a clean, even joint. Take breaks as needed to rest and prevent fatigue.
Tip:
If you are working on a vertical joint, you may find it helpful to start chiseling from the bottom and work your way up. This can help prevent debris from falling onto the lower joints as you chisel.
Caution:
When chiseling, be careful not to chip or damage the surrounding bricks. Take your time and work with precision to ensure a clean and professional result.
Step 4: Remove Loose Mortar
Once you have prepared your tools and safety equipment, it’s time to remove the loose mortar from between the bricks. This step is crucial to ensure a clean and stable surface for pointing.
Here’s how to proceed:
- Start by using a chisel or a brick jointer to scrape off any large pieces of loose mortar. Be gentle to avoid damaging the bricks.
- Next, use a wire brush to remove smaller bits of mortar that are still clinging to the brick joints. Scrub in a circular motion, applying firm pressure to loosen the mortar.
- If there are any stubborn mortar remnants that won’t come off with the wire brush, you can use a power drill with a masonry brush attachment to further clean the joints. Remember to wear safety goggles and a dust mask when using power tools.
- After removing the loose mortar, check the joints for any remaining debris. Use a vacuum cleaner or a stiff brush to remove any dust or loose particles.
- Finally, inspect the cleaned joints to ensure they are free of any loose or crumbling mortar. If you notice any areas that still need attention, repeat the cleaning process until the joints are clean and solid.
Removing all the loose mortar is vital for the success of your pointing project. The cleaner and more stable the joints, the better the new mortar will adhere to the bricks.
Step 5: Clean the Joints
Once you have successfully chiseled out the pointing brick, it’s important to clean the joints to ensure a clean and professional finish.
Here are the steps to clean the joints:
- Remove any loose debris and dust from the joints using a stiff bristle brush or a vacuum cleaner.
- Mix a solution of mild detergent and water in a bucket.
- Dip a stiff bristle brush into the solution and scrub the joints, applying firm pressure.
- Rinse the joints with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Inspect the joints to ensure they are clean and free from dirt and debris.
If there are any stubborn stains or grime, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution or a specialized brick cleaner. Always test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire joint to ensure it does not damage or discolor the brick.
Important Tips:
- Wear protective gloves and goggles when cleaning the joints to protect your hands and eyes from cleaning chemicals and debris.
- Avoid using harsh abrasives or wire brushes as they can scratch and damage the brick surface.
- Allow the joints to dry completely before proceeding with the next steps of the pointing process.
| Recommended Products | Image | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Brick Cleaning Solution |  |
A specialized cleaning solution designed to remove stains, grime, and dirt from bricks. |
| Stiff Bristle Brush |  |
A brush with stiff bristles that is ideal for scrubbing and cleaning the joints. |
Step 6: Finish and Seal
Once you have chiseled out the pointing brick, it is important to finish the job properly to ensure durability and a clean appearance. Follow these steps to finish and seal the pointing brick:
-
Clean the Area
Using a brush or broom, remove any loose debris or dust from the chiseled area. This will ensure proper adhesion of the sealant.
-
Prepare the Sealant
Choose a suitable sealant that matches your brick color. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and prepare the sealant as recommended.
-
Apply the Sealant
Using a sealant gun or a trowel, carefully apply the sealant to the chiseled area. Be sure to fill all the voids and gaps left by removing the pointing brick.
-
Smooth the Surface
After applying the sealant, use a trowel or a pointing tool to smooth the surface and create a neat finish. This will not only improve the appearance but also enhance the waterproofing properties.
-
Allow to Cure
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the curing time of the sealant. Typically, it takes a few hours to a day for the sealant to fully cure.
-
Inspect and Maintain
Once the sealant has cured, inspect the finished pointing brick for any cracks or damage. Regularly maintain the area by cleaning and resealing as necessary to extend its lifespan.
