Brick façades are designed to last for decades, but constant exposure to rain, heat, and movement gradually breaks them down. Mortar, the “glue” that holds the wall together, is particularly vulnerable — it weathers faster than the brick itself, leading to gaps that allow water penetration, structural weakness, and eventually loose or unstable masonry. Left untreated, these small failures escalate into widespread cracking, efflorescence, spalling, and costly rebuilds.
Our brickwork restoration and repointing service is not simply cosmetic — it’s about restoring both the structural integrity and visual continuity of the façade. We treat brick façades as load-bearing protective systems, not decorative skins, and that philosophy guides every step of our process.
Our Process
- Detailed Inspection & Mapping
- We start by inspecting every elevation, identifying cracked bricks, eroded joints, bulging areas, and evidence of water ingress. Each defect is mapped and categorised so repairs are systematic, not patchwork.
- Mortar Composition & Colour Matching
- Mortar must be replaced with material compatible in strength, porosity, and appearance. We test existing mortar for composition (lime, cement, sand type) and replicate it. A mismatch can cause accelerated cracking or staining, so this step is critical.
- Brick Replacement & Repair
- Damaged bricks are carefully removed without disturbing surrounding masonry. Where possible, we source salvaged or new bricks that match in size, colour, and texture. For heritage façades, hand-made or specialty units may be required to preserve architectural value.
- Joint Raking & Cleaning
- Old mortar is raked out to the correct depth, then joints are cleaned of dust and contaminants. This ensures the new mortar bonds properly and achieves full performance.
- Repointing
- Fresh mortar is inserted and tooled to the required profile (e.g. flush, weather-struck, or recessed). Tooling not only affects appearance but also directs water away from the façade.
- Crack Stitching & Reinforcement
- Where cracks threaten structural continuity, stainless-steel helical reinforcement bars are embedded across joints to discreetly stabilise the wall. This prevents further spreading without changing the façade’s look.
- Final Cleaning & Protective Treatments
- Once repairs are complete, the façade is gently cleaned and, where appropriate, a breathable water-repellent coating is applied. This protects against moisture without trapping vapour.
Key Considerations
- Compatibility Matters – Using the wrong mortar (too hard or too impermeable) can destroy bricks rather than preserve them.
- Heritage Guidelines – For heritage or character façades, approvals may be required. All works must respect council requirements and historical fabric.
- Safety & Access – Masonry works require controlled dust management and safe façade access (scaffolding, swing stages, or rope access depending on height).
Value to the Client
- Stops Water Ingress – Reduces risk of leaks into apartments, internal finishes, and structural elements.
- Extends Façade Lifespan – Properly repointed brickwork can add decades of service life to the building.
- Protects Structural Stability – Prevents bricks loosening, falling hazards, and costly structural remediation.
- Preserves Appearance – Maintains or restores a uniform façade aesthetic, supporting property value.
- Minimises Future Costs – Prevents minor cracks and erosion from becoming major rebuilds.
If you’re ready to get started, we're ready to help.
Take the next step and let’s build something that lasts.
📞 Call Us: 0410 515 509
✉️ Email Us: hello@atomicprojects.com.au
— Ben Tran, General Manager, Atomic Projects
