New stone extension - advice on pointing

[Threadjacker]

we are building an extension at home and will shortly be laying the sandstone blocks. The rest of the bungalow (1930's) has grey raised pointing, but I have heard this isn't the best way of doing it?

If we decide not to use this method and just point flush, can we do it as we build by smoothing the mortar with a trowel (eg pointing with 4:1 mix)or do we have to leave a 25mm gap and point with a proper pointing mix when the stonework is finished?

We wont be rushing into anything until we know we are doing it right.

Many thanks.

 

[stuart45]

we are building an extension at home and will shortly be laying the sandstone blocks. The rest of the bungalow (1930's) has grey raised pointing, but I have heard this isn't the best way of doing it?

It can allow water penetration as it has a ledge to sit on.

If we decide not to use this method and just point flush, can we do it as we build by smoothing the mortar with a trowel (eg pointing with 4:1 mix)or do we have to leave a 25mm gap and point with a proper pointing mix when the stonework is finished?

Jointing as you go is usually better as the mortar is in on piece, whereas when pointing later you can never totally bond the new to the old.
It is easier to control the colour when pointing in later though.

We wont be rushing into anything until we know we are doing it right.

Many thanks.

You are doing the right thing not rushing in to it.

 

[seasickstevie]

If you're talking cement... definitely NOT 4:1

The Oldun will tell you how.

 

[Alastairreid]

http://www.buildingconservation.com/articles/pointing/pointing.htm