Thin Mortar for Tuck Pointing

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michaelschmit 20 years ago

I need help selecting a mortar for tuck pointing. I have a 105 year old house that needs some tuck pointing. The mortar is white and is about ¼ inch thick. I would like a white mortar if possible, but I think it would be more important for the mortar to be strong and binds to the brick strongly.

I've been to HD and Lowes and did a little Web searching. I see so many different types of mortars. Is it better to use a mortar with a polymer or latex in it?

I plan to use a group bag for pointing, if this would make a difference.

Thanks for taking the time to read this.

-mike

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barry 20 years ago

Let me quote some professional advice I've seen published by experts:

1) do not remove old mortar with disk grinder- small air-hammer like those by Trow & Holden are much preferable. 2) do not use modern hard mortar mix with old (softer) bricks, unless you want to destroy them. Apparently the major difference is the ratio of lime to portland cement in the mix- the more lime, the more "flexible" the mortar.

No, I didn't stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night, and do suggest you at least consult with a local masonry restoration expert.

J

snipped-for-privacy@yahoo.com wrote:

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barry 20 years ago

Let me quote some professional advice I've seen published by experts:

1) do not remove old mortar with disk grinder- small air-hammer like those by Trow & Holden are much preferable. 2) do not use modern hard mortar mix with old (softer) bricks, unless you want to destroy them. Apparently the major difference is the ratio of lime to portland cement in the mix- the more lime, the more "flexible" the mortar.

No, I didn't stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night, and do suggest you at least consult with a local masonry restoration expert.

J

snipped-for-privacy@yahoo.com wrote:

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tbasc 20 years ago

Check BIA.ORG (Brick Industry Association) Their Tech Notes cover repointing. TB

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W. Wells 20 years ago

I've been to HD and Lowes and did a little Web searching. I see so many different types of mortars. Is it better to use a mortar with a polymer or latex in it?

I plan to use a group bag for pointing, if this would make a difference.

Thanks for taking the time to read this.

-mike

Vote

Thin Mortar for Tuck Pointing

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