Are pointing guns and the Screwfix mortar gun any good?

Mortar guns are tools that can be used for a range of different purposes (depending on the gun you buy), from repointing walls to filling gaps in patio slabs, and grouting tiles. But are pointing guns – and specifically the Screwfix mortar guns – any good?

Feedback on pointing guns and the Screwfix mortar guns

Opinion is massively divided when it comes to pointing guns – the Screwfix mortar guns included. While some tradespeople find them a handy tool to speed up their work, others find them slow and generally unfit for purpose.

The biggest disagreement seems to be over whether they actually work at all.

Critics of mortar guns complain that the guns don’t work with a standard mortar mix, as the mortar frequently gets stuck in the gun – sometimes even separating from the water completely. On the other hand, fans of mortar guns say that if you create a slightly wetter, smoother mix without lumps, the guns work perfectly.

Let’s look into some more good and bad feedback to help you come to a decision about whether a pointing gun is worth the investment.

Negative points

Here are some points that tend to be brought up by people who don’t enjoy using mortar guns.

• Time-consuming to refill
• Need to be refilled often
• Get blocked easily
• Require a wetter mortar mix than usual

Positive points

Here are some points that are commonly brought up by people who enjoy using mortar guns.

• Save time
• Make pointing cleaner
• Handy for small areas

Tips for using a mortar gun effectively

Although there are disagreements about whether mortar guns are effective at all, it’s certainly true that many tradespeople and keen DIY-ers enjoy using them and find them useful. Like anything, it’s a new tool in your arsenal and might take a bit of time to get used to. But once you get the hang of it, you may well find that it makes pointing cleaner and more efficient.

Here are some tips recommended by tradespeople to help you get the most out of your mortar gun.

• Clean out the last bit of mortar when refilling to prevent blockages
• Make sure to clean it thoroughly after use
• Use good, fine sand in your mortar mix
• Create a creamier mortar mix than usual to encourage it to flow out of the nozzle
• Keep a screwdriver handy to unblock the nozzle if necessary

Find a professional for your pointing work

If you’re low on time – or you simply aren’t sure if you want to invest in the tools for just a couple of jobs – why not find a professional to carry out the work for you?

A reputable builder near you will be able to repoint your patio or wall quickly and easily. Not only will they have the right tools for the job, but they’ll also ensure you get a professional result that will stand the test of time.