TYPES OF POINTING OF WALL

Flush pointing:

Flush pointing The pointing may be level as in flush pointing, which is made by wiping over the finished pointing with the trowel or piece of rough cloth. It is a suitable finish for sections of wall containing second-hand bricks, which have lost the sharper edging required for a different style of pointing.

Keyed or grooved pointing:

In this type mortar is first up flush with the face if wall. A semi circular notch is formed by a tool know as pointer. This type of pointing gives as attractive appearance to the surface. This type is mostly used for superior type work, particularly for vertical joints of walls.

Recessed point:

Recessed joints are not suitable for buildings in exposed situations because they do not readily shed water. Only bricks with good frost resistance should be used with recessed joints. A depth gauge (left) helps keep the recessed joint constant. Click here for an example of recessed pointing.

Weathered Point:

If weathered pointing is used, there is sloping outward from the upper brick to the one below. From its name it is suitable for all walls, especially those exposed to harsh weather conditions. Fill and shape the vertical joints first, then use the edge of the trowel to press in the upper edges. Use the trowel along the edge of the board to cut the lower edge straight. A strip of metal bent at the end is suitable for a smooth finish. There is also a tool available for this job called a frenchman. This looks like a knife with the tip bent over at 90°. When the mortar is almost dry, lightly brush it across its top to brush away any odd scraps of mortar - but keeping the brushing light enough to avoid damage to the pointing.