Condition review
Examining the visible failure, its extent and nearby details before defining the physical repair work.
Masonry repair services · Regional service
Brickwork, Stonework & Structural Repairs
Build, repair and restore masonry with attention to strength, weathering and appearance. SG Construction carries out natural stonework, brickwork, repointing, wall repairs and structural openings across Somerset and surrounding areas.
The service
Build and repair masonry with respect for the material.
Cracking, open joints and failing lintels are not details to cover over. Masonry defects need to be understood in context: where movement or water is entering, how the wall is constructed and whether the proposed repair is compatible with the existing brick or stone.
SG Construction’s work includes natural stone walls and outbuildings, reclaimed floor details, widespread mortar-joint restoration and the replacement of failed original stone lintels. The method changes with the material, condition and structural role.
A first conversation can identify the visible symptoms, but structural movement or concealed failure may require input from a structural engineer or other relevant professional. The construction scope should follow appropriate diagnosis rather than assuming every crack has the same cause.
Stonework across the supplied archive
Natural materials, careful junctions and lasting character.
A varied selection from SG Construction project photography, covering external stonework, openings and reclaimed internal finishes.
Typical project scope
What the work can involve.
The repair method should be proportionate to the defect and suited to the surrounding material. A masonry project may include the following tasks where they are appropriate and agreed.
Mortar-joint removal
Removing defective joint material with care to limit avoidable damage to brick or stone arrises.
Repointing
Refilling prepared joints using a mortar approach selected for the building and required exposure.
Lintel replacement
Supporting the affected area, removing failed units and installing the specified replacement lintel.
Local rebuilding
Taking down and reconstructing unstable or damaged areas where a surface repair would not be adequate.
Masonry making good
Blending the repair area into surrounding construction as far as the available materials and condition allow.
Before work begins
Plan the important decisions early.
Durable masonry repair begins with diagnosis and material compatibility. Appearance matters, but the repaired wall also needs to manage load and moisture appropriately.
Cause before repair
Cracking or joint failure can have more than one cause. Active movement, water entry and failed supporting elements should not be ignored.
Mortar compatibility
Mortar that is unnecessarily hard or unsuitable for the existing masonry can concentrate damage in softer brick or stone.
Temporary support
Lintel replacement and rebuilding around openings may need designed temporary support and a controlled sequence.
Matching expectations
Colour, texture, joint profile and replacement masonry should be discussed, recognising that aged materials can be difficult to match exactly.
A practical route
From first details to completed work.
The programme and exact stages depend on the project. This is a useful outline for starting a clear conversation.
Share the symptoms
Send clear close-ups and wider photos showing where the issue sits within the elevation.
Inspect & define
Review the visible condition, extent, access and whether professional structural input is needed.
Agree the repair
Confirm preparation, material approach, temporary works and the boundaries of making good.
Carry out the work
Remove failed material methodically, complete the agreed repair and protect fresh work as needed.
Review the result
Check the finished area, surrounding interfaces and any aftercare relevant to the repair.
Relevant completed work
See all completed projects Evidence from the portfolio.
Completed June 2026
Brickwork mortar restoration
Widespread joint failure was removed and repaired to restore weather resistance, strength and the appearance of the brickwork.
View project gallery
Completed May 2026
Stone lintel replacement
Failed original lintels were replaced with solid stone units while retaining the character of the building.
View project galleryCommon questions
Useful answers before you enquire.
How do I know whether brickwork needs repointing?
Common signs include loose or missing mortar, joints eroded well behind the face, water penetration and local instability. A site review is the best way to judge the extent and whether repointing alone is appropriate.
Can cracks in brickwork simply be filled?
Not always. The cause, width, pattern and whether movement is active all matter. Structural concerns may need assessment by a suitably qualified engineer before a repair method is chosen.
Why does mortar compatibility matter?
Mortar should work with the masonry rather than trap moisture or become the hardest part of the wall. The appropriate mix depends on the existing construction, exposure and repair requirements.
What happens during a stone lintel replacement?
The exact sequence depends on the opening and structural details. Work commonly requires the masonry above to be safely supported, the failed unit removed, the specified replacement installed and the surrounding area made good.
Will new mortar or stone match exactly?
A close visual relationship can be sought through material, colour, texture and joint profile, but exact matching with weathered historic work cannot always be guaranteed. Expectations should be agreed before work.
What should I include with a masonry-repair enquiry?
Send the address, close and wide photographs, a description of when the issue was first noticed, any change over time, known leaks or previous repairs, and any survey or engineer’s information.
Start with the property
Tell us what you want to change.
Send the location, a short outline, useful photos or drawings and your preferred timescale.