Week Eight - re-pointing the wall

Week Eight.

 

Work started on re-pointing the wall today. A mix of 3 parts builders sand, 2 parts a paler creamier sand, 0.5 parts of lime and the same of cement.  We mixed up a few variations and dried them out in the oven to get an idea of their final colour and I was really happy with the mix above. One was far too grey and another was too white. The mix we are using is creamier and has a warmth. I was helping out Dan and Jack by following on behind them brushing and stippling the mortar after it had partially dried but before it sets hard. It gives a lovely aged and authentic appearance.

 

Access platform in place to give access for re-pointing

Re-pointing using a hand pump with nozzle and traditional trowel

Bricks and capstones

First view of the wall after re-pointing

Wall prep finished

Week Four.

 

I have now done as much as I can on preparing the wall. It still needs some attention using either jet washer or sand blaster to remove the old grey limewash but Iapart from concentrating on the odd brick, I think another method has to be better.

 

View of the gardens from the access platform

More work on wall - no builders on site

Week Four

No builders on site this week as they were allowing time for the concrete footings to set.  Weather wise, it has been fantastic. I have nearly finished removing the mortar from the bricks and did a bit more cleaning of them,  but I am going to leave the worst bits for the pressure washer or sand blaster as it is a painfully slow process.

 

View of brick wall from the garden

Brick wall after quite a lot of work. Starting to look better but a long way to go!

The concrete footings being left to set

View of shed area from bathroom

Close up of wall ready for re-pointing

Working on brickwork

I have been raking out mortar on the old brick wall which currently forms the back wall of our old sheds.  We are going to renovate and repoint this wall and have it revealed internally. I have been using old screwdrivers and a small hammer but have recently been recommended a mortar rake drill bit which has been a revelation!  The difference it makes....

 

 

The brick wall after a little bit of work