Brickwork pointing styles have evolved over centuries, with each technique offering different aesthetics and performance. Here are six popular options—plus expert advice for historic and modern properties.
Flush Pointing
Pros: Simple, clean finish; great for modern builds
Cons: Can make mortar look dominant
Flush pointing brings mortar level with brick faces for a neat, flat finish. It’s common in new builds, but technique matters—slightly recessed joints can help bricks stand out more. Always agree on the look with your bricklayer before work begins.
Recessed Pointing
Pros: Creates shadow lines; highlights quality bricks
Cons: Low weather resistance; shows imperfections
Recessed pointing sets the mortar back from the brick face for strong definition. Once popular in the 1970s–80s, it’s now mostly used indoors as it offers poor water protection outdoors. A midway depth with heritage mortar can balance looks and durability.
Weather Struck Pointing
Pros: Excellent weatherproofing; elegant heritage style
Cons: Hard to achieve; higher cost
Favoured on Victorian buildings, this style slopes downward to shed water. It defines bricks while protecting against moisture. Achieving the correct angle requires skill and specialist tools.
Tuck Pointing
Pros: Stunning, traditional finish
Cons: Rare, complex, expensive
Tuck pointing uses two mortar colours to create the illusion of razor-thin joints, mimicking fine gauged brickwork. Common on historic banks and high-end properties, it’s highly skilled and time-consuming, making it one of the priciest options.
Concave Pointing
Pros: Quick, easy, cost-effective
Cons: Not highly decorative
Also called the “bucket handle finish,” concave pointing involves curving the mortar inward with a rounded tool while moist. It’s a popular, practical choice for modern builds.
V-Joint Pointing
Pros: Preserves heritage; neatens wide joints
Cons: Rare today; costly
Dating back to Tudor times, V-joint (or bird’s beak) pointing forms a sharp V-profile down the joint’s centre. It visually reduces joint width—ideal for older walls with irregular bricks.
Which Style Should You Choose?
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Historic Buildings: Weather struck, tuck, or V-joint maintain period authenticity.
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Contemporary Builds: Flush or concave styles offer clean, simple lines.
Whichever style you choose, quality workmanship is essential for durability and appearance.
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