What's the best tool for getting lumps of mortar off slightly fragile old bricks that I want to re-use (low garden wall, so strength not a major issue) because new ones wouldn't match visually?
I tried various bolsters and cold-chisels today but the mortar threatened to tear away a chunk of brick.
An angle-grinder seems excessive. Is this a good reason for buying a scutching hammer?
Try a 4.1/2" mini grinder with a masonry grinding or cutting disc
Try brick acid...
If its lime mortar try soaking the bricks in water, this should soften the mortar and may scrap of. If its cement mortar then it's the mini grinder
A normal claw hammer works well IME. A series of small strikes loosens mortar quite effectively
On 04 Apr 2015, LumpHammer grunted:
I have a scutch chisel actually - same idea but I find much more controllable than a hammer - ie, you can put the scutch comnb against whatever you want to removem at exactly the appropriate angle, and tap gently with a hammer.
In article , LumpHammer writes
In contrast with other replies, I think it would be the ideal tool, hold brick in one hand and tap off the mortar with the scutching hammer. You'd probably get away with using a brickies hammer but the scutch will be more versatile.
Hand held plus hammer also means that you can work standing upright with less strain.
Other methods require two hands so the brick needs to be held too or are too time consuming.
Agreed - much easier to use than a hammer - I got the chisel holder and blades from Toolstation.
No, buy a chipping hammer. I cleaned up 3K bricks with one of those.
I bought one to remove the plaster and old render from a big fireplace in preparation for some new shaping/rendering. It worked a treat.
But use safety specs/goggles! I bought the hammer and combs, took one swing, then went right back to my local DIY shoppie for goggles.
Gordon
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