If you’re seeing mortar joints that are crumbling, gaps forming, bricks discoloured or signs of moisture, these aren’t just surface issues—they can affect durability, energy efficiency, and even the structural integrity of your property.
Clapham’s climate, like much of London, brings rain, humidity, cold winters. If mortar joints are compromised, water can seep in causing damp, internal mould, frost damage.
Many buildings in Clapham have history. Using correct mortar type (lime vs cement), matching joint styles, respecting original brickwork is vital for both appearance and compliance in conservation zones.
Mortar binds bricks together. When joints fail, bricks shift, moisture enters, which can weaken walls, window/door frames, lintels. Solid pointing restores strength.
Well‑finished, matched pointing immediately improves kerb appeal. For buyers, tenants, or visitors, brickwork in good condition signals care and quality.
Here are warning signs to watch for around your Clapham property
Mortar that crumbles, falls out, or is easily scraped away
Gaps, missing mortar chunks, or visibly open joints between bricks
Damp patches inside or outside walls; mould, peeling paint, musty smells
Walls or bricks that are discoloured, stained with moss or algae
Cracks or movement near windows and doors, bulging or sagging masonry
Previous repair work that is mismatched or failing sooner than expected
If you notice one or more of these, it’s highly recommended to arrange for a survey sooner rather than later to prevent further damage.
Here is our end‑to‑end process for pointing & repointing in Clapham, aiming for durability, aesthetics, and minimal disruption
We’ll visit your property, walk through all elevations, examine mortar condition, look at brick condition, moisture ingress, previous repairs.
After inspection, you’ll receive a transparent quote that describes all steps: old mortar removal, mortar mix type (lime or cement), matching colour, style of joint, cleaning, possible brick replacement.
We take safety seriously. Scaffolding or safe working platforms set up if needed. We protect windows, doors, fixtures, landscaping, plants. Remove or secure any nearby fittings.
After exposure, we see whether any bricks are cracked, damaged, or subject to damp. We replace or repair as necessary, clean joints of debris, moss, pollutants.
We choose the correct type of mortar (lime or cement) depending on your building’s age, style, exposure. We match the colour, texture, and style (flush, recessed, weather‑struck, tuck etc.).
Once pointing is completed, excess mortar on brick faces is cleaned off, surfaces are brushed or lightly washed if appropriate.
We offer a warranty on our work. Plus, after completion, we provide guidance on how to look after the pointing: checking gutters and downpipes, ensuring water drains away, keeping vegetation off walls, inspecting after storms/frost. Small maintenance helps preserve the life of pointing.
Different styles influence the look, the weather performance, and how well it complements your home. Here are styles we do
Mortar level with brick face—smooth, modern look or clean finish.
Mortar set back slightly from brick face—creates shadow lines, gives a traditional or period appearance.
Joint angled to throw water away from the brickwork—helps protect joint from rain penetration.
Decorative style using fine lines of contrasting mortar to mimic fine joints for high visual impact, often on heritage façades.
With good quality mortar, correct style and proper aftercare, pointing should last 30–60 years or more. Exposure (weather, orientation, pollution) influences lifespan.
For many older or heritage buildings—terraces, period properties—lime mortar is usually more appropriate: flexible, breathable, less likely to damage older brick. Cement mortar is stronger, quicker setting, sometimes used in modern build—but can trap moisture in older walls. We’ll advise based on your building.
Possibly. Many parts of Clapham are in conservation areas or have heritage listings. Changing mortar type or appearance might need approval. We can help you check with local council to ensure compliance.
Depends on size of area and condition. Small wall or partial façade: 1‑2 days. Whole façade or multiple elevations: more days. We aim to do work efficiently and clean up each day to minimize disruptions.
Ensure that gutters, downpipes and flashings are functioning properly so water is directed away. Keep plants, vines or vegetation off walls. Regular clean off of dirt, moss, grime. After extreme weather or cold snaps, inspect for small cracks. Address any minor damage early to prevent larger issues.
We understand Clapham’s mix of heritage architecture, conservation areas, variety of brick types. We know local council requirements.
Correct mortar mixes, matching colour, strength & breathability. We follow industry best practice in preparation, application, curing.
You’ll know what you’re paying for, why, and what options exist. We explain every step, with no surprise costs.
We’re not just about completing the job—we care about how it lasts. Advice, checks, and warranty ensure your investment is protected.
We serve across Clapham and its surrounding neighborhoods, covering
Our expert team is ready to help you preserve and enhance the beauty of your property. Get in touch to discuss your project and receive a personalized quote.