FAQ — G.P Brickwork Solutions | Essex & London Brickwork

Question 1

What areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

I cover Essex and London. I'm based in Great Waltham, Essex, and regularly work across the county — including Chelmsford, Colchester, Braintree, Brentwood, and Harlow — as well as throughout Greater London. If you're unsure whether I cover your area, give me a call on 07470 073085 and I'll let you know.

Question 2

How quickly can you start a project?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the time of year and how busy I am, but I'll always give you an honest estimate when you get in touch. For urgent work — such as a failing wall or water ingress — I'll do my best to prioritise. The best way to get a realistic start date is to call or send me a WhatsApp message with a few photos of the job.

Question 3

Do you offer a guarantee on your work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I guarantee all of my work. I take pride in doing the job properly the first time, and if anything isn't right, I'll come back and sort it. Because I'm owner-operated and directly involved in every project, there's no subcontracting — you know exactly who's doing the work.

Question 4

How much does repointing cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost depends on the size of the area, the condition of the existing mortar, access requirements, and the type of mortar needed. Lime mortar repointing typically costs more than cement due to the skill and time involved, but it's the correct choice for period and older properties. I offer free, no-obligation quotes — get in touch with photos and dimensions and I'll give you an accurate price.

Question 5

What's the difference between lime mortar and cement mortar?

Accepted Answer

Lime mortar is softer and more flexible than cement, which allows walls to breathe and move slightly without cracking. It's the traditional choice for pre-1920s brickwork and is essential for listed buildings. Cement mortar is harder and less permeable — when used on older brickwork, it can trap moisture and cause bricks to spall and crack over time. I'll advise on the correct mortar for your property when I come to assess the job.

Question 6

Do you work on listed buildings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I have experience working on listed and historic buildings where lime mortar and sympathetic repair methods are required. If your property is listed, it's important that any repointing or brickwork repairs use materials and techniques approved by your local conservation officer. I can advise on this and, where required, help you understand what consent may be needed before work begins.

Question 7

Do I need planning permission for brickwork repairs or a new garden wall?

Accepted Answer

Most like-for-like repairs — such as repointing or replacing damaged bricks — don't require planning permission. However, new garden walls, boundary walls, or alterations near a highway may be subject to permitted development limits on height. Listed buildings and properties in conservation areas have additional restrictions. I'll flag anything that may need consent during the initial assessment, but it's always worth checking with your local planning authority if you're unsure.

Question 8

How do I know if my brickwork needs repointing?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include mortar that is crumbling, recessed, or missing from the joints; damp patches on internal walls; efflorescence (white salt deposits) on the brick face; or visible cracks running through the mortar lines. If you're not sure, send me a few photos via WhatsApp and I'll give you an honest assessment — no obligation.

Question 9

Will the new mortar match my existing brickwork?

Accepted Answer

Getting the colour and texture right is something I take seriously. I mix mortar on site and test samples against the existing joints before committing to the full area. For lime mortar work, some variation is normal as the mortar cures and weathers — but the aim is always a result that looks consistent and sympathetic to the original.

Question 10

Is the site kept clean and tidy during works?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I use dust extraction equipment when cutting out mortar and take care to protect surrounding surfaces. Waste is removed and the site is left clean at the end of each working day. If you have specific concerns about access, parking, or protecting garden areas, just let me know when you get in touch.

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