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Bricklaying & Repointing

Cellar wall repointing

Anonymous user 05/08/2026 - 7.59 AM

I have a damp wall in a 1920s cellar which has a lot of efflorescence causing the pointing mortar to crumble in places. I can't afford to tank the cellar right now, but should I get the wall repointed to help protect the structure for now?

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4 Answers

Brick & Stonework Services

Rating: 5 out of 5
Weston Super Mare
As its a solid wall in a 1920's cellar it would probably need tanking to stop the damp,(usually from the outside) Rake out old mortar and re-point using damp a proof additive to the mix may slow it down
Answered29 July 2026
1

Maurice hope

No reviews yet

Southfields, London
Give the wall a good clean down then flush point the wall then give it a good coat of tanking slurry but if the floor is wet then a membrane and float pump will be needed without inspection first Good luck
Answered30 July 2026
1

Eko Ltd.

Rating: 5 out of 5
Norwich
Rake out the joints it is probably lime mortar so re use a lime mortar mix 3 and1 ratio, we had a property in Cornwall forever damp and weeping, to combat that problem we used a mix of cement and SBR brushed on in 3 coats , plastered over the top no problems after.
Answered30 July 2026
1

CB Builders & Son

Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Milton Keynes
Efflorescence is a sign that moisture is passing through the wall, so simply repointing may not solve the underlying problem. However, if the mortar is crumbling, repointing the affected areas can help protect the brickwork and prevent further deterioration. On a property of that age, it’s important to use a suitable breathable mortar, such as a lime-based mortar where appropriate, rather than trapping moisture in the wall. It would also be worth identifying the source of the damp so the root cause can be addressed when your budget allows.
Answered5 August 2026
0