Pointing In Construction: Meaning, Types & Benefits

Pointing in construction is a critical technique used to finish and seal the joints between bricks, stones, or other masonry units with mortar. This process not only enhances the visual appeal of a structure by creating sharp, well-defined lines but also protects the masonry from weathering, moisture infiltration, and deterioration.

Various types of pointing, such as flush, recessed, and weathered, offer unique aesthetic and functional benefits. In this blog, we will explore the meaning and importance of pointing, delve into the different types of pointing techniques, and discuss the key benefits they bring to masonry construction.

 

What is pointing in construction?

Pointing in construction refers to applying a finish to the joints between bricks, stones, or other masonry units. It involves filling the gaps between these materials with mortar, which helps seal the joints from moisture and enhances the structural integrity and appearance of the wall. Pointing is crucial for maintaining the durability of masonry structures, as it prevents water penetration and subsequent damage. 

There are various types of pointing, such as flush, recessed, and weathered pointing, each serving different aesthetic and functional purposes depending on the project’s requirements. Proper pointing significantly extends the life of a structure.

 

The Process of Pointing in Construction

The process of pointing in construction involves several key steps to ensure the durability and aesthetic appeal of masonry joints:

Preparation: 

The existing mortar joints are cleaned out to a depth of about 12-20 mm, removing any loose or deteriorated mortar, dust, and debris. This step is crucial for creating a strong bond between the new mortar and the masonry.

Mixing Mortar: 

A suitable cement mortar or mix, typically cement, sand, and water is prepared. The mix should have a workable yet firm consistency to stay in place within the joints.

Application of Mortar: 

Using a pointing trowel, the prepared mortar is carefully applied to the cleaned joints. The fresh mortar then is pressed firmly into the joints to fill them, ensuring no voids are left.

Shaping and Finishing: 

The mortar is shaped according to the desired shape and type of pointing (e.g., flush, recessed, or weathered). The edges are smoothed, and any excess mortar is removed to create a clean and uniform appearance.

Curing: 

The pointed joints are moist for several days to ensure proper mortar curing. This step is essential to prevent cracking and to ensure the full lime mortar pointing part’s durability.

Final Inspection: 

Once the mortar has cured, the joints are inspected to ensure they are uniform and defects-free. Any necessary touch-ups are made to achieve the desired finish.

 

Types of Pointing in Construction 

Pointing in construction involves various techniques, each offering unique visual and functional benefits. Let’s explore some of the key types of pointing commonly used in stone masonry here:

Flush Pointing

Flush pointing is a popular and durable technique in which mortar joints are filled and smoothed to flush with the masonry surface. This seamless finish enhances the structure’s appearance while reducing spaces that could collect dust or water, promoting longevity and cleanliness.

Recessed Pointing

Recessed pointing involves filling mortar joints and pressing them back into the wall surface, typically creating a depth of around 5 mm. This technique adds depth and shadow lines to upper edge of the masonry, creating a distinctive and appealing aesthetic.

Beaded Pointing

Beaded pointing features a concave groove in the mortar joint, created using a steel tool. This method adds an elegant beaded appearance to straight edge of the masonry, though it is more susceptible to damage than other techniques.

Struck Pointing

Struck pointing involves creating a sloping profile by pressing the top edge of the mortar joint inward, about 10 mm compared to the bottom of pressing mortar out. This slope allows rainwater to drain off quickly, reducing water retention on the masonry surface.

Rubbed, Keyed, or Grooved Pointing

This technique is similar to flush pointing, with the added feature of a central groove created using a pointer tool. The groove adds a distinct visual element to the pointing tool, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the masonry.

Tuck Pointing

Tuckpointing involves filling the mortar joint and creating a precise groove, typically 5 mm wide and 3 mm deep. The groove is then filled with white cement putty, leaving a small projection, creating a striking contrast with pressed mortar that enhances the overall appearance.

V Pointing

V pointing is similar to keyed pointing but features a V-shaped groove within the joint. This groove is created using a specialised V-shaped tool, giving the modification of flush pointing a unique and visually appealing profile.

Weathered Pointing

Weathered pointing involves pressing the mortar into the joint and skillfully pressing back the top portion of lime mortar from the horizontal joints by 3-6 mm while the mortar is fresh. This technique creates a sloping effect, giving the joints a weathered, worn-down appearance.

 

Advantages of Pointing in Construction 

Pointing in construction offers several advantages that contribute to the longevity, durability, and aesthetic appeal of masonry structures:

Enhanced Durability: 

Pointing strengthens the mortar joints, making them more resistant to weathering, erosion, and environmental damage. This extends the lifespan of the masonry.

Improved Weatherproofing: 

By effectively sealing joints, pointing prevents water penetration and protects against moisture-related issues such as dampness, mould, and structural deterioration.

Aesthetic Improvement: 

Pointing enhances the visual appearance of masonry by highlighting the pattern, texture, and colour of the joints, giving the structure a polished and well-maintained look.

Structural Integrity: 

Properly pointing reinforces the bond between bricks or stones, strengthening the structure’s stability and strength.

Maintenance of Hygiene: 

By filling gaps and voids in mortar joints, pointing reduces the accumulation of dust, dirt, and organic matter, making the structure easier to clean and maintain.

Cost-Effectiveness: 

Regular pointing maintenance can prevent more significant structural issues, potentially saving on costly repairs and extending the building’s life.

 

Purpose of Pointing in Construction 

Protection

Pointing safeguards mortar joints from atmospheric wear and tear, ensuring their durability and maintaining the structural integrity of the masonry.

Aesthetic Enhancement

Pointing enhances the visual appeal of masonry by accentuating the joints’ pattern, thickness, colour, and texture, giving the wall a refined and finished look.

Weatherproofing

Pointing effectively seals gaps, preventing rainwater and moisture from penetrating the masonry, thereby improving the structure’s resilience against weather-related damage.

Strengthening

By reinforcing and filling mortar joints, pointing increases the overall strength and stability of cement mortar pointing the masonry, contributing to a more robust construction.

Preservation

Properly executed pointing helps preserve the building by preventing moisture ingress, which can cause deterioration and damage to the underlying structure over time.

 

Conclusion

Pointing is a fundamental aspect of masonry construction that enhances structures’ visual appeal and significantly contributes to their durability and strength. By selecting the appropriate type of pointing and ensuring proper execution, builders can protect the masonry from environmental damage, extend the structure’s life, and maintain its aesthetic integrity. Whether flush, recessed, or weathered pointing, each technique offers unique benefits tailored to different construction needs.

Powerplay’s construction management software can further streamline your projects by providing tools to manage tasks, monitor progress, and ensure quality control. With Powerplay, you can efficiently oversee every aspect of your construction projects, from planning to execution, ensuring that all processes, including pointing work, are carried out effectively and on schedule.