What questions should I ask an Ottawa mason before repointing?

Here are the questions worth covering before you sign for repointing.

About the work itself

• How do you cut out the old mortar, and how will you control the dust on site? (Mortar removal generates silica dust, a regulated workplace hazard; ask about wet cutting, dust extraction and respirators.)
• What mortar type and mix are you planning, and how will you match the colour and joint profile of the existing joints?
• How deep will you rake the joints before repointing?
• Will any bricks need replacing, and if so, where will matching brick come from?
• What joint profile will you finish with, and how does that match what is there now?

• What area of wall does this price cover, and is scaffolding or a lift included or quoted separately?
• Is removal and disposal of old mortar included?
• Is there a minimum charge if the job is smaller than expected?
• What does the written warranty cover, and for how long?

• What repointing work have you done in Ottawa, and can I see examples or speak with a past client?
• Who will be on site doing the work, and are they experienced with this type of masonry?
• Will you carry commercial general liability insurance for this job, and can I see a current certificate?

The Building Code (9.20.14.1) says mortar and masonry shall be kept at or above 5°C during installation and for not less than 48 h after, so if the job runs into cold weather, ask how that will be managed. Get the full agreement in writing before work starts; under the Consumer Protection Act, 2002, a written direct agreement over $50 gives you 10 days to cancel after you receive it, and if the agreement includes an estimate, the contractor cannot charge more than 10 per cent above it.

One line to check in a repointing quote: ask whether scaffolding is a firm figure or an allowance, and get it as a firm figure before you sign.