Masonry Repointing & Tuckpointing Services in Victoria BC
Stone & Trowel Heritage Restoration offers professional masonry repointing and tuckpointing services for heritage buildings across Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and Greater Vancouver. Based in Victoria, BC, we specialize in restoring mortar joints with precision, using lime-based mortars that match original mixes to maintain structural integrity and aesthetic authenticity.

Understanding Masonry Repointing and Tuckpointing
Repointing involves removing deteriorated mortar from joints and replacing it with fresh, compatible mortar—essential for preventing water ingress, cracking, and further decay in historic brick or stone structures. Tuckpointing is a specialized technique that creates the illusion of fine joints using two mortar colors, common in Victorian-era buildings.
In BC’s wet climate, mortar erosion is accelerated by rain, salt, and freeze-thaw cycles, making repointing critical for heritage properties. Our methods comply with Heritage BC Standards, ensuring breathable, flexible mortars that allow moisture to escape without trapping it—unlike modern cement-based mortars that can cause spalling.
Key benefits include:
• Structural Stability: Repairs weak joints to prevent collapses or further damage.
• Waterproofing: Seals against moisture while maintaining vapor permeability.
• Aesthetic Enhancement: Restores original appearance, boosting property value (heritage homes often see 10–15% premiums).
• Sustainability: Uses traditional lime mortars for eco-friendly, carbon-negative, long-lasting results.
We’ve applied these techniques to landmarks like Craigdarroch Castle, the Government House, Royal Roads University, City Halls in Victoria and Duncan BC, and the Legislative Buildings, preserving BC’s architectural history with over 75 years of team expertise.
Our Masonry Repointing Process
We employ a careful, step-by-step approach to ensure heritage-compliant outcomes:
1. Assessment and Planning: Inspect joints for depth, condition, and original mortar type. Analyze samples in a lab for accurate matching (e.g., lime-to-sand ratios, pigments).
2. Mortar Removal: Gently rake out deteriorated mortar using hand tools or low-impact methods approved for heritage repointing—avoiding power tools that could damage bricks/stones.
3. Material Preparation: Custom-mix lime-based mortars to match historical compositions, incorporating aggregates for texture and color.
4. Application and Finishing: Pack mortar into joints, tool profiles (e.g., concave, flush, or V-shaped), and cure slowly for strength.
5. Final Inspection: Check for uniformity, clean residues, and provide maintenance tips to extend longevity.
Projects typically span 2–7 days for heritage homes and weeks, if not months, for civic buildings..


Applications for Repointing in BC Heritage Properties
• Residential Heritage Homes: Restoring chimney joints or foundation walls in Victoria’s Fairfield or Rockland areas.
• Commercial Facades: Tuckpointing intricate brickwork in Gastown or Yaletown’s historic warehouses.
• Stone Structures: Repointing sandstone or granite on government buildings or churches across Vancouver Island.
• Preventive Maintenance: Addressing early erosion to avoid costly repairs in the future, given our coastal environment.
Our work often qualifies for grants like the Victoria Heritage Foundation or Vancouver Heritage Façade Rehabilitation Program.
Why Stone & Trowel for Repointing Services?
• Skilled artisans trained in traditional techniques. We also work in partnership with the heritage masonry experts at Lennox Masonry for larger projects.
• Custom mortar matching for authenticity—no “one-size-fits-all” approaches.
• Insured, mobile service from Langford to Metro Vancouver.
• Client testimonials: “Their repointing on our 1910 home was flawless—seamless and durable!” – Victoria Homeowner.


Repointing FAQs
• How often does heritage masonry need repointing? Every 50–100 years, depending on exposure—earlier in rainy BC.
• What’s the difference between repointing and tuckpointing? Tuckpointing adds a decorative line for fine-joint illusion.
• Is lime mortar better than cement? Yes, for heritage—it’s flexible and breathable, preventing trapped moisture. Schedule Your Repointing Project Today.
Revive your heritage building’s mortar joints with expert repointing from Stone & Trowel. Serving Victoria BC and beyond—contact us for a free assessment.
Call: 250-986-0324
Request A Consultation
In need of an assessment when it comes to your heritage masonry project? Fill out the contact form below and we'll be in touch as soon as possible.
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