pointing problems below DPC

[gimchee]

Hi - the house I've just bought has had serious bridging problems for at least 25 years. This is because a paved patio was laid right along the back of the house bridging the DPC. I'm removing the patio slabs and digging out to 150mm clearance. The brick mortar below the dpc has the cosistency of damp compacted sand and I'm guessing this must be the same for all the brick mortar right down to the foundation. I can point the mortar that is visible but I don't know what to do about the damaged mortar below ground.

I'm tackling this problem blindly so any help is very appreciated.

Thanks,

Tony



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[WabbitPoo]

As you can imagine, to fix it you'll need to rake it all out in sections and repoint. You'll need plenty of maneuvring space next to the wall though. I am sure a builder will give you more details on methods. Out of interest, do you get problems in the house as a result? If you have a good dpc/dpm then I suppose its possible to leave it alone????? Maybe not but I await a builder's opinion.

 

[gimchee]

Yes, dpc seems to be fine. I hope I don't have to rake out complete mortar joints. I was hoping about 12-15mm.