A Guide to the Heritage Technique That Protects and Preserves Brickwork
Traditional weather-struck pointing is one of the most effective and characterful ways to finish brickwork on period homes. Commonly found on Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian properties across the UK, this method not only enhances the visual appeal of brickwork but also plays a key role in protecting it from the elements.
If you’re planning a restoration in Epsom or anywhere in Surrey, understanding the purpose and skill behind weather-struck pointing—and choosing the right specialists to carry it out—is essential.
What Is Weather-Struck Pointing?
Weather-struck pointing involves finishing mortar joints with a slight downward slope from top to bottom, designed to deflect rainwater away from the wall.
The top edge of the joint is finished clean and sharp, while the bottom edge is subtly recessed. The result is a crisp, angled joint that actively resists water ingress—making it both visually sharp and highly functional.
This traditional technique is typically paired with lime mortar, which is far more compatible with period brickwork than modern cement. Lime mortar allows the building to “breathe,” reducing moisture buildup and the risk of cracking or spalling.
Why It Matters for Period Homes
Whether you’re restoring a Victorian townhouse or repointing a Georgian wall, using the correct pointing method is crucial. Weather-struck pointing offers:
- Improved water runoff, reducing moisture penetration
- Durability, especially in exposed elevations
- A traditional finish, often required in conservation areas
- Authenticity, maintaining the historical integrity of the building
It’s particularly well-suited for use on London yellow bricks and other soft, historic bricks often found in Surrey homes.
Bagnall Builders: Specialists in Weather-Struck Pointing & Reclaimed Brickwork
At Bagnall Builders, we specialise in traditional weather-struck pointing and building with reclaimed bricks across Epsom and the wider Surrey area.
With decades of hands-on experience working on period properties, we understand the importance of using the right materials and methods to restore your home the right way.
We regularly source and build with second hand bricks and London yellow bricks, carefully matching colour, size, and texture to ensure seamless integration with your original brickwork.
When paired with traditional lime mortar and expertly finished weather-struck joints, the result is a restoration that’s both visually accurate and built to last.
Our approach combines skilled craftsmanship with local knowledge, making us a trusted name in the heritage restoration sector across Surrey.
How Traditional Weather-Struck Pointing Is Done
Here’s a quick breakdown of the process our team at Bagnall Builders follows:
- Rake Out the Old Mortar
We carefully remove damaged or crumbling mortar without harming the bricks. - Clean the Joints
We prep the area by removing dust and debris to ensure proper adhesion. - Apply Fresh Lime Mortar
We use a hand-mixed lime mortar compatible with heritage bricks. - Strike the Joint
While the mortar is still workable, we shape the joint with a precise angled finish, allowing water to run off naturally. - Detail the Edges
A small tool is used to create a sharp line along the top edge for a crisp, authentic finish.
Why Choose Reclaimed Bricks?
Using reclaimed bricks—especially in repairs or extensions—is essential for achieving a natural match with older walls. Second hand bricks like London yellow bricks bring unmatched texture, colour variation, and historical authenticity that new bricks simply can’t replicate.
At Bagnall Builders, we hand-select reclaimed bricks from trusted sources and ensure they’re properly cleaned, sorted, and laid to match the existing structure. This attention to detail is what sets us apart in period restoration.
Final Thoughts
Traditional weather-struck pointing is more than a technique—it’s part of what gives period homes their timeless character and structural resilience.
When done properly using lime mortar and reclaimed bricks, it not only protects your home from the elements but also preserves its historic beauty.
If you own a Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian property in Epsom or the wider Surrey area, trust Bagnall Builders for expert craftsmanship rooted in heritage methods.
We bring deep knowledge of traditional building practices, precision in every joint, and a passion for restoring period properties with care and accuracy.
Ready to restore your home with traditional materials and techniques?
Contact Bagnall Builders today for expert advice, skilled workmanship, and heritage-grade pointing and brickwork tailored to your property.
