Croydon, with its rich blend of period architecture and modern developments, is home to thousands of brick-built homes, shops, and commercial properties. While bricks are renowned for their strength and durability, the mortar that binds them can deteriorate over time due to weathering, pollution, damp, and general wear and tear. This is where repointing brickwork becomes essential—not just to maintain the look of a building, but to safeguard its long-term stability.

Whether you live in a Victorian terrace near South Norwood, a 1930s semi in Shirley, or manage a commercial block in Croydon town centre, repointing can significantly enhance both the structural integrity and kerb appeal of your property. In this guide, we’ll explore what repointing is, when it’s needed, how the process works, the benefits it offers, and why hiring local professionals is the best route forward.

What is Repointing?

Repointing is the process of removing deteriorated or damaged mortar from the joints between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar. Mortar acts as the “glue” that holds the brickwork together, and while bricks may last over 100 years, mortar usually begins to degrade within 25–50 years, depending on exposure and materials used.

If left untreated, crumbling mortar can allow water to penetrate walls, which may lead to internal damp, frost damage, and even structural weakness.

Signs That Your Brickwork Needs Repointing

Here are the common signs that indicate your property in Croydon may be due for repointing:

• Cracked, flaking or powdery mortar
• Gaps appearing between bricks
• Loose or wobbly bricks
• Damp patches or internal water ingress
• White stains or salt deposits (efflorescence)
• Discoloured or recessed mortar joints
• Increased draughts or cold spots indoors

If you spot any of the above, it’s best to have the brickwork professionally inspected to determine the severity of the damage.

The Repointing Process Explained

Repointing brickwork is a delicate process that requires precision, the right tools, and knowledge of historic and modern building techniques. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:

1. Initial Inspection and Assessment

A professional will assess the condition of your mortar, identify the depth of damage, and recommend the most suitable type of mortar—whether traditional lime-based or modern cementitious mixtures.

2. Raking Out Old Mortar

Using hand tools or small mechanical grinders, the old, loose mortar is carefully removed to a specific depth (usually 15–25mm), taking care not to damage surrounding bricks.

3. Cleaning the Joints

The joints are brushed out and washed down to remove dust, debris, and old residue to ensure a strong bond for the new mortar.

4. Applying New Mortar

Fresh mortar is carefully applied into the joints using pointing tools. The type of finish—weather struck, flush, or recessed—depends on the property’s original style and the customer’s preferences.

5. Finishing and Curing

Once the new mortar is applied, it’s allowed to dry and cure naturally. In some cases, especially with lime mortar, it’s kept damp for a period to ensure proper setting.

Why Repointing is Especially Important in Croydon

Croydon’s location in Greater London exposes it to urban pollution, vehicle emissions, and high humidity levels. These environmental factors speed up mortar decay. Also, many of Croydon’s older homes were built using lime mortar, which requires a different approach than modern cement mortar.

Additionally, with the borough’s focus on urban renewal and conservation, maintaining the visual and structural health of properties is key for preserving neighbourhood character and meeting planning standards—especially in conservation areas like Upper Norwood and Addiscombe.

Benefits of Repointing Brickwork

✅ Structural Protection

Repointing restores the strength and weatherproofing of your walls, preventing water ingress and internal damp issues.

✅ Enhanced Appearance

Clean, uniform mortar joints instantly improve the exterior look of your home or building, boosting kerb appeal and pride of ownership.

✅ Increased Property Value

A well-maintained façade can lead to a higher property valuation, which is especially important for those looking to sell or let.

✅ Energy Efficiency

Repointing helps reduce draughts and cold bridging through damaged joints, leading to improved thermal performance.

✅ Preservation of Heritage

For period homes, especially in Croydon’s conservation zones, repointing with the correct materials helps preserve historical charm and meets regulatory standards.

Types of Mortar Used in Repointing

The mortar mix chosen depends on the age and type of brickwork. Using the wrong type of mortar can actually cause damage, so it’s vital to get this right.

• Lime Mortar – Traditionally used in older buildings; it allows bricks to “breathe” and flex with temperature changes.
• Cement Mortar – More modern and stronger but not suitable for soft bricks or heritage buildings.
• Hybrid Mixes – Sometimes used to balance breathability and strength, tailored to the property’s specific requirements.

Areas in Croydon Where Repointing is Common

Repointing is often carried out in the following areas:

• South Norwood & Thornton Heath – Victorian terraces with weathered façades
• Shirley & Addiscombe – 1930s and 1940s semis in need of modern maintenance
• Waddon & Purley – Properties exposed to high road traffic pollution
• Croydon Town Centre – Commercial buildings with visible wear and ageing mortar
• Sanderstead & Upper Norwood – Period and conservation properties needing lime mortar work

DIY vs. Professional Repointing

While DIY pointing kits are available, repointing is best left to professionals for the following reasons:

• Tools and equipment – Experts use purpose-built tools and dust extraction systems.
• Experience – Proper joint preparation, mortar mixing, and finishing require skill.
• Time – Repointing a façade can take several days or weeks, depending on size.
• Safety – Working at heights or on scaffolding requires proper training and equipment.
• Guarantees – Professional work is usually insured and guaranteed for several years.

Choosing the Right Repointing Contractor in Croydon

When selecting a local company, consider the following:

• ✅ Experience with Croydon properties
• ✅ Knowledge of traditional and modern mortar types
• ✅ Fully insured and accredited
• ✅ Transparent quotes and timelines
• ✅ Positive customer reviews or recommendations
• ✅ Adherence to health and safety practices

Ask to see before-and-after photos of previous repointing work and check if the company offers a workmanship guarantee.

Cost of Repointing Brickwork in Croydon

Repointing costs vary based on:

• The size of the area to be repointed
• The type of mortar required
• Whether scaffolding is needed
• The difficulty of access
• The condition of the existing mortar

As a rough guide:

• Small areas: from £300–£800
• Full house frontage: £1,500–£3,000+
• Lime mortar repointing: slightly higher due to specialist skills

Always request a written quotation and make sure VAT, scaffolding, and waste removal are included.

What Customers Say About Repointing Services in Croydon

“The team repointed the front of our Edwardian house and we couldn’t be happier. It looks brand new, and we’ve noticed the house is warmer too!”
– Rachel W., Sanderstead

“Brilliant service from start to finish. They were tidy, polite, and explained everything. Great value for money.”
– Mr. Patel, Thornton Heath

“Our old shopfront in Croydon was crumbling and letting in damp. After repointing, it looks sharp and clean. Highly recommend.”
– Susan L., Business Owner, Croydon High Street

Conclusion: Protect Your Property with Professional Repointing

Repointing is one of the most effective ways to maintain and protect your brick property in Croydon. It not only enhances appearance but also prevents long-term damage, improves insulation, and increases value.

Whether you’re restoring a historical home or modernising a commercial property, working with a local, reputable repointing specialist ensures the job is done right—safely, legally, and with care.