Commercial Masonry Restoration: When Brick Buildings Need Repair or Repointing

March 26th, 2026

Brick and masonry construction are known for their strength and longevity. Many commercial buildings in Regina have brick exteriors that have lasted for decades, and some even longer.

However, even the most durable masonry eventually requires maintenance. Weather exposure, moisture, and aging materials can slowly weaken mortar joints and damage bricks.

Recognizing the early signs of masonry deterioration can prevent costly structural repairs and extend the life of a commercial building.

Why Masonry Deteriorates Over Time

Brick itself is extremely durable, but the mortar between bricks is designed to wear down gradually over time. This sacrificial layer absorbs movement and environmental stress, protecting the surrounding masonry.

In Saskatchewan, masonry is exposed to several factors that accelerate deterioration:

• Freeze and thaw cycles

• Moisture penetration

• Wind and temperature fluctuations

• Building movement over time

When mortar begins to break down, gaps can form between bricks. This allows water to enter the wall system, leading to further damage if left untreated.

Common Signs Your Brick Building Needs Repair

Commercial property owners should watch for visible signs of masonry deterioration.

Some of the most common warning signs include:

Cracked or crumbling mortar joints
Mortar that is flaking, powdery, or missing entirely is a clear sign that repointing may be required.

Loose or shifting bricks
Bricks that move or appear misaligned may indicate that the mortar bond has weakened.

Spalling bricks
Spalling occurs when the face of the brick begins to chip or break away due to moisture trapped inside the material.

Water stains or interior moisture
If water is penetrating the masonry wall, it may show up as stains, mold, or dampness inside the building.

Addressing these issues early can prevent more extensive structural damage.

What Is Masonry Repointing?

Repointing is the process of removing damaged mortar and replacing it with new mortar to restore the strength of the wall.

During repointing, the old mortar is carefully removed from the joints between bricks. Fresh mortar is then applied to create a strong bond and restore the wall’s structural integrity.

Benefits of repointing include:

• Preventing water penetration

• Strengthening the masonry structure

• Improving the appearance of the building

• Extending the life of the brickwork

Repointing is one of the most effective ways to maintain historic and modern masonry buildings alike.

Masonry Restoration vs Full Replacement

In many cases, full masonry replacement is not necessary. Restoration techniques such as repointing, brick replacement, and cleaning can often return the structure to excellent condition.

Professional masonry contractors evaluate the condition of the building and recommend the most appropriate solution.

Restoration work preserves the original character of the building while improving durability and safety.

Protecting Your Commercial Property Investment

Commercial buildings represent a significant investment, and maintaining the exterior structure is critical to protecting property value.

Regular inspections and timely masonry repairs can prevent small problems from becoming expensive structural issues.

Expert Masonry Restoration in Regina

Cornerstone Masonry & Exteriors provides professional masonry repair, repointing, and restoration services for commercial properties in Regina and surrounding areas.

If your building is showing signs of masonry wear, contact our team to schedule an inspection and protect your property for the long term.