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01 · Ask
Repair, match or build new?
Spalling brick, dropped wall, want a new extension? Describe what you've got — the AI tells you whether it's a repointing job, a rebuild or a structural call.
Repoint with cement mortar.
Modern Portland-cement repoint — for post-1930s brickwork that needs hard, dense joints.
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Stretcher vs Flemish bond, NHL lime, cavity ties, weep holes, DPC heights. Know what good looks like before the first course is laid.
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Top tips
Hiring a bricklayer, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Match the brick before they start.
On extensions and repairs, sourcing the right brick is harder than laying it. Insist on a sample wall — three courses, on-site, in your light — before they buy the pallet.
Get the mortar mix in writing.
Lime mortar, cement mortar, NHL grade — the wrong mix on the wrong brick spalls in five winters. Ask which mix and why.
Check the bond before pointing.
Stretcher, Flemish, English — the bond should match the existing wall, especially on period properties. Catch it at first course, not after pointing.
Insist on a damp-proof course.
Any external wall needs a DPC at the right height — 150mm above finished ground level. A missing or wrong DPC creates damp problems you'll be fixing for years.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Day rate
£200–£350/day
Brickwork (per m²)Inc. labour, ex. bricks
£80–£160/m²
Repointing (per m²)
£30–£70/m²
Garden wall (per linear m)1m high, single skin
£120–£280
Chimney rebuild
£1.8k–£4.5k
Brick arch (over opening)
£350–£900
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
InfographicThe Bricklayer briefing.
Infographic
Bricklayer quick-view
Cement mortar pointing is the standard repair for modern UK brickwork — post-1919 buildings, hard wirecut bricks, and engineering bricks. Faster to cure, cheaper than lime, and easier to source. This guide covers what cement mortar pointing costs in 2026, the correct mix ratios, and when it's the right choice.
The key is matching mortar strength to brick strength — don't use stronger cement on softer bricks.
What Does the Work Involve?
- Inspection and confirmation of need.
- Raking out old mortar to 12–25 mm depth.
- Cleaning brick faces.
- Mixing cement mortar to appropriate ratio.
- Pointing joints with weathered finish.
- Curing under sheet for 7+ days.
Typical Mix Ratios
- Engineering bricks below DPC: 3:1 sand:cement
- Modern facing bricks (general): 4:1 sand:cement
- Softer modern bricks: 5:1 sand:cement or 6:1:1 sand:cement:lime
- Internal walls: 6:1 sand:cement
Typical Costs
| Item | Low £/m² | High £/m² | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard cement repointing | 40 | 80 | Average UK |
| Premium pointing (matched finish) | 60 | 110 | Heritage-style on modern brick |
| High-rise scaffolding | +£800 | +£3,000 | Per project |
How Long Does It Take?
- 30 m² wall: 2–4 days for raking and pointing.
- Curing: 7 days minimum under sheet.
DIY or Professional?
Achievable for confident DIYers — cement is forgiving of small errors. For visible work or larger areas, professional pointing looks better.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
- Confirm mix ratio in writing.
- Look at past jobs aged 3+ years.
- Discuss joint profile (struck, weathered, recessed, flush).
- Curing plan if weather unfavourable.
UK Regulations
- Standard repair rules.
- Listed properties usually require lime; cement on listed = breach.
Common Problems
- Wrong mix ratio — too strong, cracks brick instead of joint.
- Poor weathering — joints trap water.
- Pointing in rain — washes out before set.
- Inconsistent colour — different sand or cement batches.
- Bond breakdown — insufficient depth of pointing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between cement and lime?
Cement: harder, faster to set, less flexible. Lime: softer, slower to set, more compatible with old brick.
Can I use cement on a Victorian house?
No — Victorian and older soft bricks need lime. Cement cracks the brick faces.
How long does cement pointing last?
30–50 years on modern brick. Less on softer brick (where it shouldn't be used anyway).
What mortar colour can I get?
Cement can be tinted with pigment — buff, brown, red, off-white. Most pointers offer matching service.
Will it crack in cold weather?
Cement is more frost-resistant than lime once cured. Don't point during frost (under 5°C).
Do I need to dampen the bricks before pointing?
For dry, absorbent bricks: yes. For pre-soaked bricks or wet weather: no. Bricklayer judges.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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