Brick Repointing in Edmonton: Protect Your Brickwork from Alberta Weather
Brick masonry is built to last, but its durability depends on the condition of the mortar joints. In Edmonton and throughout Alberta, freeze-thaw cycles, moisture exposure, and temperature extremes accelerate mortar deterioration. When mortar begins to fail, brick repointing is essential to protect the structure, prevent water damage, and preserve the appearance of the brickwork.
Brick repointing involves removing deteriorated mortar from joints and replacing it with new, properly matched mortar. When completed correctly, repointing restores structural strength, improves weather resistance, and extends the lifespan of brick masonry systems.
Alberta’s climate is especially demanding on masonry. Common causes of mortar failure include repeated freeze-thaw cycles, water penetration behind brick veneers, improper original mortar mixes, aging mortar that has lost flexibility, and minor building movement. Once mortar joints deteriorate, moisture can infiltrate the wall assembly, leading to efflorescence, interior leaks, brick cracking, and costly repairs.
Signs that brick repointing may be required include cracked or missing mortar joints, loose bricks, gaps between masonry units, white staining on brick surfaces, and visible deterioration around chimneys, windows, and openings. Addressing these issues early helps prevent brick failure and reduces long-term repair costs.
Brick repointing is not a cosmetic repair. Proper repointing restores load distribution, prevents water intrusion, protects bricks from premature damage, preserves architectural character, and improves curb appeal. Using the wrong mortar type can cause irreversible damage, as overly hard mortar often leads to brick cracking instead of allowing natural movement—one of the most common masonry failures in Alberta.
Successful brick repointing in Edmonton requires mortar that is compatible with the existing brickwork and suitable for extreme freeze-thaw conditions. Mortar must remain softer than the brick itself, allowing controlled movement without transferring stress to the masonry units. Proper mortar selection is critical for long-term performance.
Brick repointing is often confused with brick replacement. Repointing addresses failing mortar joints, while brick replacement is required when bricks are cracked, spalled, or structurally compromised. In many Edmonton brick repair projects, selective brick replacement combined with full repointing provides the most effective and durable solution.
Professional brick repointing is essential for residential, commercial, and heritage buildings in Alberta. Proper assessment, compatible materials, and skilled workmanship ensure masonry repairs that last decades, not just seasons. If your brickwork shows signs of deterioration, a professional masonry inspection is the first step in protecting your investment.
https://metexteriors.com/brick-work-and-block-work/
Canadian reference:
https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/consumers/home-maintenance-renovations/brick-masonry-repairs
