Pointing deep joints & stonework

The hi-flow nozzle is ideal for large cavity masonry pointing

The hi-flow nozzle is ideal for pointing deep joints.

Possibly the most difficult, time consuming and messy pointing tasks is repairing mortar in deep joints and stonework. This is made far simpler by using a PointMaster tool.

The fast flow rate and positive feedback through the handle as you are using the tool enables fresh mortar to be applied at a rate that ensures successful adhesion into the mortar joint. Adhesion is improved by cleaning and dampening the surface prior to application.

The tool works effortlessly when pointing flint or sandstone walls, or any other deep joint mortar application, using either traditional lime based mortars or Cement mortar.

This short video shows the mix, application and finishing of a modern reproduction flint wall using the Point Master tool with cement mortar.

It clearly indicates how easy the Point Master makes this previously difficult job. The most common alternative technique is to throw the mortar onto the wall with a trowel or hawk.

It is important to evaluate what the existing mortar is made from before attempting a repair and to ensure that similar materials are used. Doing this will ensure the aestetic, performance and durability of your repair.

More Info on mortar can be found at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortar

This 300 year old flint wall needed repairing with lime mortar
Restoration completed including brick replacements

Heritage deep-joint repair with hydraulic lime mortar.

Results are achieved faster and much more accurately than by traditional methods, where the mortar would have to be "thrown" into the joint manually from a trowel.

Because the Point Master is designed to ensure a complete fill of the mortar cavity "from the back", the mortar recess is always completely filled. This ensures the best repair in the shortest time.

When repairing or re pointing deep joints or stonework, always remember to remove all the loose and powdery mortar back as far as safely possible, then dampen the cavity and existing mortar before you start, to ensure the best adhesion.

Heritage deep-joint repair with hydraulic lime mortar

Video link: How we made the mortar

As this wall is a modern reproduction, the use of 4:1 cement mortar is used.

Mortar is mixed starting from the dry parts and a good quality liquid plasticiser is added at the start of the mixing process. This liquid plasticiser is added directly to the mix and NOT into the water.

Water is then added gradually between stages of vigorous mixing.

Other additives and pigments are also compatible with the Point Master. Here we also add a weatherproofer additive.

Image of the Pointmaster pointing gun tool

Other applications for Point Master

The tool is suitable for most applications using regular cement mortar, lime mortar and grout for flooring. It works with most common mix ratios, and is fine with mortar colourant and other mortar additives. The links below show projects and short videos of some examples of uses for Point Master. Just click an image.