How Much to Repoint a House

How Much to Repoint a House

Repointing a house is one of those essential maintenance tasks that can dramatically improve both the appearance and integrity of a property. Over time, the mortar between bricks weathers and erodes, leaving gaps that allow moisture to enter and weaken the structure. Repointing involves removing this old, damaged mortar and replacing it with fresh material to restore the strength and weather resistance of the wall. Whether you live in a period property or a more modern build, repointing plays a crucial role in protecting your home from the elements. Understanding the cost to repoint a house in the UK will help you plan your maintenance budget and avoid more expensive repairs in the future.

What Repointing Involves

Repointing is a skilled process that involves carefully raking out the deteriorated mortar to a certain depth and then filling the joints with a suitable replacement mix. The new mortar must be compatible with the original material, especially in older or listed properties, where the use of traditional lime mortar may be required. The aim is not only to seal the wall against water ingress but also to maintain the structural stability and visual character of the building. Repointing can be done on an entire house or limited to affected sections, depending on the extent of the damage and the age of the building.

Average Cost of Repointing a House in the UK

The cost to repoint a house varies significantly depending on the size of the property, the type of bricks and mortar, the condition of the wall and the accessibility of the area being repaired. On average, full repointing of a three bedroom semi detached house may cost between three thousand and five thousand pounds. For larger or detached properties, this figure can increase, especially if scaffolding is needed or if the work is particularly detailed. Costs are typically calculated per square metre, and prices can also vary depending on regional labour rates. If only one elevation needs repointing, the cost will be considerably lower, but partial repairs may still require scaffold access, which adds to the expense.

Factors That Influence the Cost

Several key elements can affect how much you will pay to repoint a house. The first is access. If the walls are high or obstructed by conservatories, extensions or trees, scaffolding may be needed to carry out the work safely. This can be one of the most expensive parts of the job. The type of mortar also matters. Lime mortar, often required in older or listed properties, is more labour intensive to work with and may cost more than modern cement based options. The condition of the brickwork plays a part too. If bricks need to be replaced, cleaned or repaired during the repointing process, this will increase the overall cost. Lastly, the intricacy of the joint profiles and the finish required will influence how long the job takes and how much it costs.

Why Repointing Is So Important

Repointing is not just a cosmetic fix. Mortar joints are vital to the performance of a brick wall, and when they degrade, the wall becomes vulnerable to moisture, frost damage and structural movement. Water entering the joints can lead to damp problems inside the home, affect insulation and cause timber to rot. Crumbling mortar also weakens the wall’s ability to support weight, which can eventually result in cracks and even collapse in severe cases. Timely repointing prevents these issues and extends the life of the building, often saving thousands in future repair work. It also helps retain the value and kerb appeal of the property, making it more attractive to buyers if you choose to sell.

How Long It Takes to Repoint a House

The duration of a repointing job depends on the size and complexity of the area being treated. Repointing an entire three bedroom house may take anywhere from one to two weeks, depending on weather conditions, the number of workers involved and the type of mortar used. If the work is carried out in winter or during wet periods, it may take longer due to delays in drying times. Smaller sections of a wall can be repointed in a day or two, but full house repointing should be treated as a medium scale project that requires planning, skilled labour and attention to detail.

Hiring the Right Tradespeople

Because repointing is a specialist job that directly affects the structural and visual integrity of your home, it is important to hire experienced professionals. Look for tradespeople with a background in brickwork, masonry or conservation if you own a period property. Ask for references and examples of previous work, and make sure they can match the mortar colour and style to the existing finish. A professional will also advise on whether a full repoint is necessary or if a patch repair would be sufficient. Always obtain a written quote that includes preparation, labour, materials and any access equipment.

Final Thoughts

Repointing a house is a vital form of maintenance that strengthens the structure, improves weather resistance and enhances appearance. The cost will depend on the scale of the job, the materials used and how easy it is to access the walls. While it is a significant investment, repointing offers long term benefits by protecting your home from moisture damage and preserving its overall condition. Planning ahead, choosing experienced tradespeople and understanding the process will help ensure the job is done properly and your home remains secure for years to come.