DIY Pointing Brickwork vs Using Professionals – Pros and Cons
Brickwork is one of those things that quietly holds your home together – literally and figuratively. But over time, factors like weather, age and general wear and tear can cause the mortar between bricks to crumble away.
This is where repointing comes in.
Should you tackle it yourself or call in the experts? Keep reading for a no-nonsense guide to the pros and cons of DIY pointing versus hiring a professional.
DIY pointing brickwork
Rolling up your sleeves may be rewarding. But pointing brickwork can be finicky and labour-intensive. It’s important to know the pros and cons before you start.
The pros
- Save money
Cost is often the biggest motivator for DIY pointing brickwork. Doing the work yourself can save on labour costs, which can add up for larger projects.
- A sense of achievement
There’s nothing like stepping back at the end of a job and thinking, “I did that.” Repointing your own brickwork can be incredibly satisfying if you’re the hands-on type.
- Work on your own time
DIY pointing means no waiting around for contractors or juggling your schedule to fit someone else’s.
The cons
- It’s not easy
Repointing isn’t just slapping on some mortar and calling it a day. It takes precision and practice to get the joints looking uniform.
- Time-consuming
It’s one of those jobs that always seems smaller until you start. Between scraping out old mortar and filling it back in, it can eat up a lot more weekends than you’d planned.
- Room for error
Using the wrong mortar mix or leaving gaps when DIY pointing brickwork can lead to bigger problems down the line, like water damage or weakened walls.
Professional repointing services
When you call in the experts, you’re handing over the job to people who’ve done it all before. Here’s what you can expect.
The pros
- Top-quality results
Professional repointing isn’t just about filling gaps. It’s about restoring your brickwork to its former glory. Pros know how to match mortar styles, achieve proper bonding and leave your walls looking sharp and weatherproof.
- Speed and efficiency
What might take you weeks to complete can be done by a professional team in a fraction of the time. Why? Because they’ve got the tools, experience and people power to get it done fast and effectively.
- Peace of mind
You know the job’s being done properly when you hire a reputable professional.
The cons
- Higher costs
Hiring professionals does come with a bigger price tag. But ultimately, you’re paying for expertise and a long-lasting finish. This is something that you won’t necessarily get with DIY repointing.
- Scheduling
You might need to wait for an available slot depending on the time of year.
Which option is right for you?
If you’ve got a small area to tackle, a bit of experience and the patience to take your time, DIY pointing can be a good option. If you’re dealing with extensive damage, an older property or simply want the peace of mind that comes with a professional touch, calling in the experts is the way to go.
Get it right with JW Building Services
At JW Building Services, we know a thing or two about repointing. With over 10 years of experience and a fully insured team, we bring the expertise needed to get your brickwork back in top shape. Contact us today for expert advice or a free quote.
