Lime mortar repointing on a Centretown rowhouse, price range?

Heritage lime-mortar repointing runs about $15 to $45 per sq ft of wall in published Ontario contractor pricing, 2025–26. Your quote will differ based on the specifics of the job.

What moves the number across that range: the total area of wall to be repointed, how many storeys up the work goes and whether scaffolding is needed (scaffolding can add about $500 to $3,000 on its own), how deteriorated the existing joints are and how deeply they need to be cut back, and whether the mortar colour and joint profile need to be matched carefully to the existing wall.

Centretown is a heritage conservation district, and its plan says lime-based mortar should be used when repointing historic brick, and that care should be taken to match the colour and joint profile. The plan also encourages using a mason experienced in lime-based mortar.

A fair written quote for this job should spell out the wall area being repointed, the mortar type (lime-based, and the mix or standard it follows), how the existing joints will be cut out and how dust will be controlled on site, the joint profile and mortar colour being matched, and cleanup and disposal of debris. Ask whether scaffolding or a lift is included or quoted separately, and ask where matching brick would come from if any damaged units need to come out at the same time.

Before anything else, take clear photos of the joints from close up and measure the rough area of wall you think needs work. Two masons looking at the same wall in person will give you a much sharper picture of scope and price than any range can.