Case Study:Innovative Chimney Repointing at Kings Cross: A Scaffolding-Free Approach

Spectrum is one of the few restoration & repair companies that do not require the use of scaffolding to access all elevations at any height. Repointing these two particular chimneys was no exception. 

We have been carrying out maintenance services in this property for over three years now, which gave the client confidence to award us the works instead of our competitors. 

After 100 years, these two chimneys were requiring an inspection and re-pointing. The real challenge was that both chimney sections needing re-pointing were on the side facing the neighbouring buildings. Initially, the client thought the only way to have both chimneys repaired was by erecting scaffolding and then carrying out the repointing. Aware of this and that Spectrum works with abseilers, the client’s decision couldn’t be easier 

Spectrum was able to offer a rope access solution, avoiding all distress that comes with scaffolding. These sections were accessed by our IRATA certified abseilers, specialists in brick repairs and repointing. 

The Project 

When we got the enquiry regarding the chimney repairs, we knew an inspection had to be done before any works were scheduled. It was agreed with the client this would be the most responsible way to address this, therefore a site visit was carried out before the repointing works were scheduled. 

This project required two IRATA certified operatives that we're also experts in brick repointing. This project was completed in 12 days as planned. Minimal disruption was caused to the residents and the neighbouring building which allowed the works to run smoothly, and the results were impressive. 

The Site 

The building is located 500 meters away from Kings Cross Train Station, therefore the works needed to be carried out with no disruption. The client couldn’t be happier that no scaffold or big machinery, like MEWP, was required to carry out the brick repointing on the chimneys. 

The caretaker on-site, helped our team get access to the roof and make sure power sockets were available in case it was needed. As there were no eye bolts or safety system on-site, our IRATA certified abseilers used a portable anchor (deadweight trolley) to abseil both chimneys. All health and safety assessments were done before the start of the works. The use of portable anchorage meant that no drilling into the building for fixing points or alterations to the roof was required, minimizing potential damage and disruption to the building, and there were no extra costs on new installations. 

The Logistics 

After we carried out the inspection and identified all areas in need of repointing, a plan of works was agreed with the client, including timings and access. 

Before our team started the works, they assessed the join width and decided on which tools would be best to use to achieve the expected aesthetical result. Repointing an existing building is as important as when the bricks are being layered as it affects the aesthetic of the building but also its structure. Repointing without assessing all existing factors, such as the joint width, the bricks, and the best materials to use, can affect masonry's longevity, resulting in serious structural damages in the future, leading to expensive building repair projects to correct the damage. 

Spectrum had a very clear work plan to accomplish the best result possible. Rake out the defective pointing on the neighbouring side and replace it with a breathable lime mortar. The provisional amount allowed 20 Linear meters, grind away 20mm depth and then repoint. This included the flanges on the neighbouring side. In addition to the works agreed with the client in our spec of works, Spectrum went the extra mile by, as good will, including an additional 12 linear meters, and even 8 brick replacements to damaged bricks. 

Our brick repointing professional used a few specialist tools such as masonry chisels. Lime mortar was the most sensible option as it is more breathable than cement. This prevents the water from ingressing through the joints allowing the moisture to be drained out of the brickwork instead of getting stuck inside. 

Custom Solutions 

The team assigned to this project was our brick restoration specialist team, IRATA certified abseilers. Thanks to their expertise, the repointing was done at the highest standard possible. Despite being a key element of the facade aesthetic, pointing is also what keeps the building healthy, allowing it to resist the power of time. The mortar between the joints is meant to be breathable so the moisture between each brick can drain out, avoiding possible leaks and structural damage. This is why our specialist chose to use Lime mortar when repointing. 

The costs included materials, labour, and access. This was one of the reasons our client chose to go with Spectrum. They trusted our highly trained repointing professionals would do their absolute best to achieve the so expect final result without the need of using scaffolding, saving our client time, money and all headaches the road/sidewalk disruption would cause, using instead a dead weight trolley for our IRATA certified abseilers use as an anchorage. 

Providing Results - No Matter The Challenge 

The client was extremely impressed with the final result. The chimneys were properly repaired and looked like new with the effort and care put into this repointing works by our brick repointing specialists. Spectrum also included a full clean using the doff system after the works.

Get in Touch

Spectrum operates nationwide, therefore it doesn’t matter where you are, we will be able to offer a free consultation/quote and a site visit as well as a free sample. 

Browse our Service Wheel to find out all of the services we offer. Our team are more than happy to help you with any of your questions. 

Send an email to info@spectrumss.co.uk 

Or, give us a call at 0203 551 6206 to speak to an advisor today.