2. 2
POINTING
The term pointing is applied to the finishing of mortar
joints in masonry. In exposed masonry, joints are
considered to be weakest and most vulnerable spots from
which rain water or dampness can enter.
Pointing consists of raking the joints to a depth of 10 to
20 mm and filling it with better quality of mortar in
desired shape.
Pointing is completed with the
following mortar mixes:
Lime mortar: 1:2 mix
Cement mortar: 1:3 mix
3. 3
New work: All the joints are raked down to a depth of
20 mm while the mortar in the joint is still soft. The
surface of the joints are then cleaned and thoroughly
wetted.
Old work: All loose pointing and superfluous mortar on
the surface and in the joints are removed. The joints and
surface are cleaned and then thoroughly wetted.
POINTING
Preparation of surface
5. 5
This type of pointing is formed by pressing mortar in the
raked joint and by finishing off flush with the edges of
masonry units. The edges are neatly trimmed with trowel
and straight edge.
POINTING
Flush pointing
6. 6
The pointing is done by pressing the mortar back from
the edges by 5mm of more. The face of the pointing is
kept vertical by a suitable tool.
POINTING
Recessed or Recessed pointing
7. 7
This is a modification of flush pointing by forming a
groove at its mid height, by a pointing tool.
POINTING
Rubbed, keyed or grooved pointing
This is special type of pointing formed by steel or
ironed with a concave edge. It gives good
appearance, but is liable to damage easily.
Beaded pointing
8. 8
This is a modification of flush pointing in which the face of
the pointing is kept inclined, with its upper edge pressed
inside the face by 10mm. This pointing drains water easily
POINTING
Struck or Weathered pointing
9. 9
It is formed by first pressing the mortar in the raked joint
and finishing flush with the face while the pressed mortar
is green. Groove having 5mm width and 3mm depth is
cut in the centre of the groove. This groove is then filled
in or tucked in with white cement putty, kept projecting
beyond the face of the joint by 3mm.
POINTING
Tuck pointing
10. 10
This type of pointing is formed by making a groove of
V shaped with the help of steel rod.
POINTING
V pointing
