The short answer
What Affects the Price
Several factors shape the cost of repointing brick. The biggest one is the amount of wall area that needs work. Larger walls take more time and materials, so the price climbs with square footage. The condition of the existing mortar also matters. If the mortar is crumbling deep into the joints, the pros will need to remove more before repointing, which adds to the labor.
The type of mortar you choose plays a role too. Standard mortar is usually less expensive than specialty mixes that match historic homes or specific brick types. Accessibility can also affect the price. If the wall is hard to reach, like a second-story exterior or a tight crawl space, the work takes longer and costs more.
For a rough idea, you might hear costs often range from $3 to $15 per square foot, but that number depends on your specific situation. The only way to know for sure is to have a pro look at your wall and give you a price based on the actual conditions.
- Wall size and height
- Depth of mortar damage
- Type of mortar needed
- Accessibility of the wall
- Local labor rates
Why Water Damage Matters
Repointing is not just about looks. The mortar between bricks is a key barrier against water. When it cracks or crumbles, rain and humidity can seep into the wall, leading to dampness inside your home. Over time, that moisture can damage drywall, wood framing, and even the brick itself.
If you notice water stains on interior walls or musty smells near exterior brick, the mortar might be failing. Addressing repointing early can help prevent more costly water damage repairs down the road. If you already have water intrusion, you may need to handle that first before repointing.
In a place like Euless, with its humid climate and spring storms, keeping exterior walls in good shape is worth attention. But the decision to repoint depends on the condition of your brick and mortar, not on any general rule.
How to Spot Failing Mortar
You can often see the signs without special tools. Look for cracks in the mortar joints, especially horizontal ones. If you can easily scrape out loose mortar with a screwdriver, that is a sign the bond is weak. Also check for efflorescence, a white powdery deposit that appears when water moves through the brick.
Another clue is the brick itself. If the face of the brick is flaking or spalling, water may be getting behind it. Pay attention to areas near downspouts or where sprinklers hit the wall. Those spots often show damage first.
If you are unsure, a water damage inspection can help. The pros can check for hidden moisture that might be coming through the brick, which gives you a clearer picture of what the repointing needs to address.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro
Repointing is a skilled trade. Doing it badly can trap water and cause more damage. For small patches, a careful homeowner might manage, but for larger areas, it is wise to hire a pro. The pros have the right tools and know how to match mortar color and texture.
If you decide to hire, get a few opinions and ask for a detailed breakdown of the work. The pros will remove the old mortar to a proper depth, then fill and tool the joints to match the original. That process takes time, so be wary of any price that seems too low.
Remember that the cost depends on the specific job. No one can give you an exact number without seeing the wall. A local water damage pro can also advise if the brick has moisture issues that need attention before repointing.
What to Expect During the Work
The pros will start by protecting the area around the wall, covering windows and plants. Then they grind out the old mortar to a set depth, usually about half an inch to an inch. After cleaning out the dust, they mix fresh mortar and fill the joints, using a tool to press it in tightly.
The final step is tooling, where they shape the mortar to match the original profile, like a flush or concave joint. Curing takes time, so the wall needs to stay dry for a few days. If rain is in the forecast, the pros may use tarps to protect the fresh mortar.
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Euless and nearby communities.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
How long does repointing take?
A typical exterior wall might take a few days, but it depends on the size and condition. The pros need to remove old mortar, repoint, and let it cure. Plan for at least two to three days for a standard house.
Can I repoint just the damaged spots?
Spot repairs are possible, but they may look patchy if the mortar color doesn't match. Also, if one area is failing, other parts may be weak too. A pro can assess the whole wall to decide if full repointing is better.
Will repointing stop water leaks inside?
Repointing helps, but it is not always the only fix. Water can enter through other gaps, like cracks in the brick or poor flashing. If you have interior dampness, consider a water damage inspection to find the source before repointing.