What is Pointing in Construction ? Its Types, Advantages and Purpose

When it comes to the construction of brick or stone structures, it's not just about the sturdy foundation or the precise arrangement of materials. Attention to detail is what sets apart an ordinary construction project from a visually striking masterpiece. One such detail that plays a vital role in both the structural integrity and the overall aesthetics of masonry is pointing.
 

What is pointing in construction ?

Pointing, in its simplest terms, refers to the art of filling the gaps between bricks or stones with mortar or other suitable materials. While this may seem like a mundane task, the proper execution of pointing can transform a regular wall into a work of art. But pointing is not solely about appearances; it serves multiple purposes and offers several advantages that contribute to the longevity and functionality of a construction project.

In this blog post, we will delve into the world of pointing in construction. We'll explore its meaning, the various types of pointing, advantages, and the purpose they serve. So, whether you're a construction enthusiast, a homeowner looking to understand the finer details of masonry, or simply curious about the art of pointing, this blog will equip you with the knowledge to appreciate the significance of this construction technique.
 

Types of pointing

Pointing in construction encompasses a range of techniques, each offering its own distinct visual appeal and functional benefits. Let's explore some of the prominent types of pointing that have been used in masonry

• 1) Flush pointing

• Flush pointing is a widely used and durable type of pointing in masonry. In this technique, the raked mortar joints are carefully filled with mortar, and any excess mortar is meticulously removed, resulting in a smooth and seamless finish. The mortar joint is made flush with the face of the brick or stone masonry, creating a visually pleasing appearance. By eliminating spaces that can accumulate dust or water, flush pointing helps enhance the longevity and cleanliness of the structure.
  

• 2) Recessed Pointing

• Recessed pointing is a visually appealing type of pointing that involves filling the raked mortar joints with mortar and pressing it inside the wall surface using a suitable tool. This technique creates a depth of around 5 mm or more, while keeping the face of the pointing vertical. The result is a distinctive aesthetic appearance, with the recessed mortar joint adding depth and shadow lines to the masonry.
  

• 3) Beaded Pointing

• Beaded pointing involves pressing mortar into the masonry joint and creating concave grooves using a steel tool with a concave shape. This technique results in a mortar joint with a distinctive beaded appearance, adding an elegant touch to the overall aesthetic. While beaded pointing offers excellent visual appeal, it should be noted that this type of pointing is more susceptible to damage compared to other techniques.
  

• 4) Struck Pointing

• Struck pointing involves a two-step process to achieve a specific profile for the mortar joint. First, the mortar is filled and pressed to match the face of the brick masonry work. Then, the top edge of the joint is pressed inward, creating a slope of approximately 10 mm compared to the bottom corner. This sloping effect allows rainwater to drain off rapidly, minimising water retention on the masonry surface.

• 5) Rubbed, Keyed or Grooved Pointing

• Rubbed, keyed, or grooved pointing is a type of pointing that shares similarities with flush pointing. In this technique, the raked joint is filled with mortar and levelled flush with the face of the brick or stone masonry. However, what sets this type of pointing apart is the addition of a groove formed at the centre using a specialised tool called a pointer. This groove adds a distinct visual element to the pointing, giving it an aesthetic appeal.
  

• 6) Tuck Pointing

• Tuck pointing is a precise type of pointing that involves filling the raked joint with mortar and then creating a groove at the centre of the joint. The groove is carefully made with specific dimensions, typically 5 mm in width and 3 mm in depth. What sets tuck pointing apart is the subsequent step of filling or "tucking" the groove with white cement putty, leaving a small projection of about 3 mm. This technique creates a visually appealing contrast between the mortar and the white putty, enhancing the overall appearance of the masonry.
  

• 7) V Pointing

• V pointing is a technique similar to keyed pointing work. The process begins by filling and pressing mortar into the joint, ensuring a flush finish. The distinguishing feature of V pointing is the subsequent formation of a V-shaped groove within the joint. This groove is created using a specialised tool shaped like a V, which gives the technique its name.
  

• 8) Weathered Pointing

• Weathered pointing is a technique where mortar is pressed into a joint, and while the mortar is still fresh, the top portion of the horizontal joints is skillfully pressed back by 3-6 mm using a pointing tool. This creates a distinctive sloping effect from the top of the joint to the bottom, giving the appearance of weathered or worn-down edges.
   

Advantages of pointing in construction

Pointing plays a crucial role in enhancing the durability and aesthetics of masonry structures. By properly filling the gaps between bricks or stones, pointing offers several advantages that contribute to the overall quality and value of a building. Here are some key benefits of the various types of pointing in construction :

1) Enhances structural integrity, ensuring a stronger building.

2) Provides weatherproofing, protecting external walls from moisture.

3) Restores the overall appearance of the building, improving its aesthetics.

4) Increases the value of your property, making it more desirable.

5) Reduces ongoing maintenance needs, saving time and costs.
 

Purpose of Pointing in Construction

• 1) Protection

• Pointing protects mortar joints from the damaging effects of the atmosphere, ensuring their longevity and strength.
  

• 2) Aesthetic Enhancement

• Pointing improves the appearance of the wall, highlighting the pattern, thickness, colours, and texture of the joints.
  

• 3) Weatherproofing

• Pointing helps seal gaps and prevents rainwater or dampness from entering the masonry, enhancing the structure's resistance to external elements.

• 4) Strengthening

• By filling and reinforcing mortar joints, pointing adds strength and stability to the overall masonry construction.
  

• 5) Preservation

• Proper pointing helps preserve the integrity of the building by preventing water penetration and subsequent damage to the underlying structure.
  
  

Types of Mortar

• 1) Lime mortar

• It is prepared by blending fat lime, fat sand and water in suitable proportions. Most commonly, lime mortar ratios of 1:2 or 1:3 are used for pointing work. It is used in old and new structures and has excellent workability and flexibility.
  

• 2) Cement Mortar

• Cement mortar is created by blending cement, sand, and water in specific proportions. Typically the ratio is 1:3. Cement mortar offers high strength and durability, making it suitable for various types of masonry work.