Can we talk about words some more?
If “pointing” is the repair of masonry mortar joints, why do we need the word “repointing” which means the same thing?
If the terms have truly different meanings, what are they?
Interesting question, Matthew.
I use pointing (both noun and verb) for new work. Masterspec, in their evaluations for Section 044200 Exterior Stone Cladding, states. Mortar joints in dimension stone cladding should be raked out and pointed, with either pointing mortar or an elastomeric sealant.Raking out and pointing the joints allows the setting mortar to harden before the face of the joints is filled. Separate pointing also allows using a different color mortar for pointing than is used for setting. Pointing mortar can also be higher in lime than setting mortar because it does not require as much strength.
I use repointing for renovation and repair work, meaning the removal of existing joint mortar or sealant, and filling the joint with fresh mortar or sealant.
Another way to look at this is that repointing includes both removal of existing joint material and refilling the joint with fresh material, vs pointing which is just filling the joint.
Get the point?
I have not worked on a project where pointing was part of new construction.
Typically, I am specifying simple masonry with struck joints.
Your stone cladding example is helpful! Point taken.
Thank you.
To me, pointing is the work of squishing a thin layer of mortar into masonry joints. Repointing is replacing said mortar, usually old, including raking out the old stuff. I have very rarely used it in new work, typically as a repair for mis-colored or mis-tooled joints.