The joint profiles in brickwork make up approximately 17% of the overall wall area and different joint profiles can affect both the aesthetics and weathering properties of the wall.

1. Raked joints increase the risk of water penetration.

2. A concave joint reduces water penetration through the joints. (Tobermore recommends a concave joint) Industry guidance for mortar joint specification in masonry.

Ranked Joint:

This joint strongly emphasises horizontal joints. However, it is a very poor weather joint and is not recommended if exposed to weather. This mortar joint incorporates the ledge of the block to create the horizontal lines that are so desirable with this joint. This ledge is a collector of rain water as it pours down the wall. Eventually, the water will find its way around the mortar joint into the interior of the wall and building.

Concave Joint:

This is the most common joint used in masonry construction. The tooling works the mortar tight into the joint to produce a more consistent weather joint. The pattern is emphasised and small irregularities in laying are concealed.

Please refer to the ‘good practice on-site’ section of Tobermore’s Walling and Masonry brochure for more guidance on best practice for laying and jointing concrete facing bricks.