Case Study: An Apartment Building Masonry Restoration Project in Manly by Keystone Pointing

Located right across the legendary Manly Beach, this apartment building’s brickwork is on the brink of collapse. Beautiful spot, no doubt. But for the brickwork, the constant exposure to salty air can be a silent killer.

Over the years, the bricks took a beating from the harsh coastal environment which led to significant mortar crumbling, movement cracks and dislodged bricks. This kind of wear and tear is common for buildings near the ocean, where salt and moisture accelerate the degradation of its components, which makes an apartment building masonry restoration a necessity to preserve structural integrity.

A thorough structural restoration was completed, involving full repointing of the mortar,replacement of the wall ties, crack stitching and waterproofing. This restoration reinforced the building’s stability and safety while protecting it from future damage caused by the harsh coastal conditions.

This case underscores the severe impact of coastal environments on brick masonry. It also emphasises the importance of proactive structural maintenance and expert apartment building brick repair to maintain the buildings in such areas.

The Problem: Apartment Building Brick Repair Challenges in Coastal Environments

The prime location of this apartment building has come at a cost. Years of salt-laden sea breeze have eaten away the mortar, which left some of the joints completely hollow. In some sections, the bricks had actually dropped out of the wall, not just unsightly, but a real safety concern.

Structural instability became evident through movement cracks that appeared throughout the structure, including along the steps. The failure of wall ties sped up the damage and moisture ingress led to internal cracks and continued deterioration. Nature had also started reclaiming the place. Plants and small trees began growing through cracks in the parapet walls and chimney. One chimney even required partial demolition due to extensive root damage.

It was clear that past repairs hadn’t done the trick. Patch-pointing attempts had been made here and there, but those quick fixes were no match for the level of damage. The building’s exterior is covered in dirt, grime and years of neglect. The building was well and truly telling us it needed proper repair, not another band-aid job.



Site Inspection: Assessing the Damage

When we arrived for the initial site check, it didn’t take long to spot the trouble. The mortar was heavily eroded in multiple areas and there were visible cracks running through the brickwork. Some of the joints were barely holding on and the gaps between bricks could be seen in several areas.

The failed wall ties were another major red flag. These are meant to keep the brickwork connected and secure. When they can no longer perform their job, you end up with walls that start to bow or separate.

These issues, if left unaddressed, posed significant risks to the building’s stability. The weakened mortar and failing ties threatened the overall structural strength, while the cracks pointed to deeper concerns within the foundation. Immediate action was necessary to prevent further deterioration and safeguard the building’s long-term safety.

If left the way it was, the building’s structure would’ve continued shifting, making things unsafe not just for the people living there but for anyone walking past on the street. The structure was hanging on a thread and we knew exactly it was time to step in and sort it properly.

Proposed Solution: Professional Apartment Building Masonry Restoration to Restore Structural Stability

Our team has outlined a detailed plan to address the building’s structural issues. The proposed works include expert brick repointing for apartment buildings, along with the following components:

Full Repointing

The entire building will be repointed with light grey mortar to restore the mortar joints and improve the overall appearance.

Crack Stitching

Stainless steel crack stitching ties will be installed at all movement cracks to reinforce the walls and prevent further damage.

Wall Tie Replacement

The existing wall ties will be thoroughly replaced with durable 316-grade stainless steel ties to reinforce the building’s stability.

Brickwork Cleaning

The brickwork will be cleaned before and after the works for proper adhesion of new materials and improved appeal.

Waterproofing

The building will be waterproofed entirely to prevent future salt and moisture ingress.



The Process of Brick Repointing Apartment Building

The team implemented a comprehensive approach to the crumbling Manly apartment building - brick repair and restoration were carried out with a focus on long-term stability, not just patch jobs.

1. Mortar Removal

Power tools and class M dust extraction systems were used to remove the old mortar and debris carefully to prep the surface for repair.

2. Pressure Washing

The entire building was pressure washed to remove dirt, grime and salt residues.

3. Crack Stitching

Stainless steel stitching ties were installed along all movement cracks to reinforce weakened areas and prevent further shifting.

4. Repointing

The building was fully repointed with light grey mortar and finished with a half-round profile, as specified by the client.

5. Wall Tie Replacement

We reinforced the building with 316-grade stainless steel remedial wall ties to restore its stability and guarantee longevity even in the harsh coastal environment.

6. Curing & Final Clean

The mortar was allowed to cure properly before a final cleaning to remove dust and any remaining residue.



The Result of a Reliable Apartment Building Brick Repair and Restoration

With all structural issues sorted, the building is now structurally sound. Every movement crack, failing tie and weak point has been properly dealt with. With fresh repointing and a good pressure wash, the place looks clean, neat and well cared for, far from where it started.

The rebuilt chimney now stands firm and safe, free from unwanted plant growth. With new reinforcements in place and quality materials used throughout, this old beachside building is now well-prepared to take on the sea breeze and withstand extreme coastal conditions in the years ahead.



The Importance of Early Action and Expert Brick Repointing for Apartment Building Brick Repair

Addressing mortar and wall tie failure early is necessary, especially in coastal areas where salty air and harsh weather can cause rapid damage. Patchwork fixes may seem like a quick solution, but they don’t last, as the coastal environment can quickly deteriorate temporary repairs.

That is why consulting specialists are necessary for durable and lasting brick repointing for apartment building restoration solutions.

Our team, at Keystone Pointing, is proud of the restoration work completed on this building, which not only addressed the structural issues but also improved its visual appeal. We went above and beyond to make sure the building was safe, strong and visually exceptional. This project has also showcased our strong commitment to quality and durability.



Take the First Step Toward Apartment Building Masonry Restoration

If your home or apartment building shows signs of damage, it’s best to act early and call us immediately. With our extensive experience in coastal properties, we can provide you with dependable and expertly done brick repointing, wall tie replacement, tuckpointing and comprehensive masonry restoration.

Request a quote for your apartment building masonry restoration needs by filling out our contact form. You may also browse our portfolio of past projects to see the high quality workmanship we deliver.