Do you need scaffolding for repointing?

If you’re planning to carry out repointing for your property, you mind be wondering: do you need scaffolding for repointing?

If you’ve received a quote for repointing, you may notice that it includes the cost of scaffolding. But is scaffolding really needed for repointing work? Let’s find out…

What is repointing?

Pointing is the cement or lime mortar within the joints in masonry stone or brick. As well as creating a nice appearance, its main role is to stop damp from getting in.

The mortar often doesn’t last as long as the brick it holds together. It therefore must be removed and replaced in a process known as repointing.

Do you need scaffolding for repointing?

When working at height, you need to be both comfortable and safe.

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 state that one must take precautions to prevent a fall.

Prevention methods include scaffolding, but they could also be a harness and ladder if your tradesperson feels safe with this setup.

If the repointing work is around a chimney, for example, your tradesperson might feel safe to complete the work with a ladder and harness.

However, to repoint the full exterior of a two-storey property, for example, your tradesperson will likely insist on scaffolding.

To get a good quality finish, the old mortar needs to be raked out before being repointed. This involves working at height and moving about at height for long periods, neither of which would be safe to do from a ladder.

It’s also worth noting that most brickwork specialists will only look to cover their costs when adding the cost of scaffold hire to your quote. That is, they do not look to make a profit from this.

Find a local repointing specialist for the job

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