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1.
Mixing the Mortar.
Thorough mixing is essential & is best achieved with a cement mixer. However, vigorous hand mixing
can achieve equally good results.
The Point Master is suitable for most sands, including medium sharp sand mixes.
However, very gritty sands may not be suitable.
Avoid using Monofilament sand, as this has no fine particles (for example kiln dried paver sand).
Be aware of using wet sand - you may not need to add as much water as you think.
Best results are obtained by using a relatively soft sand & a good quality plasticiser.
Mix the sand & cement together in a cement mixer or suitable mixing vessel such as a barrow or bucket.
Add plasticiser directly to the mix (not into your water container)
Add water in gradual stages, mixing thoroughly each time.
Important: Do not add the full amount of water until your mixing is nearly complete -
(Add only 80-90%).
mixing thoroughly BEFORE the full amount of water is added will allow the plasticiser to add air bubbles
to the mortar. After thorough mixing, add more water until the correct consistency is achieved.
Carry out a quick test with the Point Master. You will soon become familiar with the consistency required for easy use.
The use of plasticiser in mortar is standard practice & not a special requirement of the Point Master.
Some pre-mixed mortar products may require slightly more plasticiser to be added, especially when mixed by hand.
2.
A step-by-step guide to using the Point Master.
1. Adjust the nozzle* to fit the average joint width.
2. ‘Liven up’ the mortar. A quick stir is usually sufficient.
3. Partially fill the Point Master until you are familiar with using it.
4. Hold the Point Master just above the nozzle in one hand, place the other on the ‘end’ of the handle grip.
Keep the Point Master out to one side of you (not in front of you).
5. A slight twisting action of the handle whilst applying pressure will help to encourage an even flow.
6. Before each refilling, shake or gently tap out unused mixture.
7. Fill the Point Master & use immediately, holding the nozzle square to the joint (see images 1 and 2 below).
8. Slightly overfill the joints with either a series of movements, or a continuous sliding motion.
9. Wash out periodically. Clean the tool thoroughly after use.
* To adjust the nozzle (on the tool), use pliers on each side of the nozzle only. Straighten the long sides if they have bowed inwards.
For specific jobs, the short sides of the nozzle can be customised, see image 3 below.
3.
Correct orientation of the tool for precise application
1. Tool is at right angles to
the mortar joint
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2. Nozzle is incorrectly seated
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3. Sides of nozzle can be notched for:
A - a raised or overfilled joint
B - narrow floor tile joints
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4.
Watch the mortar mixing video.
Click
the "Play" button below, or click here to watch our online video on how to mix correct mortar for the
Point Master*
*streamed
video via the internet is suitable for broadband internet users.
5.
Some useful pointing tips
Old joints should be raked back by approximately 15-20 millimetres and then brushed or washed
thoroughly to remove any dust. A power washer will often remove lime mortar from brickwork or dry mixed
mortar from patio joints.
For wall pointing, fill the bed joint first and then fill the perpendicular (upright) joints above it. This stops sagging.
After applying new mortar, leave the unfinished pointing to stiffen slightly, finish the joint by smoothing off with a trowel or pointing iron. Lightly brush over before the mortar has set hard.
Do not use old cement that has become ‘lumpy’. Avoid mixing too much mortar, especially in hot weather. Freshly mixed mortar is more effectively applied than that which has partly cured.
Different sands & mixes will flow differently, therefore it is important to find the right consistency.
A standard mix for wall pointing: 5 parts building sand, 1 part cement, add plasiciser to manufacturers instructions.
Use maximum amount when mixing by hand. For patio slabs or exposed brickwork, you may need a stronger mix.
For example - 3:1 sand / cement.
Lime Mortar mix (typical) 2.5 sand / 1 lime, no plasticiser needed but a longer mixing time is required
(15-20 minutes using a cement mixer).
The new type of concentrated liquid plasticisers are recommended. Add this to the mix and not the water.
For non structural applications, washing-up liquid could be used as a substitute for commercial plasticiser.
An approximate measure would be one third (1/3) of teaspoon of concentrated liquid for 5 shovels
of sand and cement mix.
Common Mistakes
Flooding the mix too soon in the mixing process is a common mistake. This will stop the plasticiser
from working properly and will result in a flat mix that does not flow correctly. It may also cause the water to
separate. If this happens, add more sand, cement & plasticiser to dry the mix, mix thoroughly in this drier state
for several minutes, then add water to achieve the correct consistency.
6. Replaceable parts & safety
Replaceable Parts
The piston washer is not designed as a seal and so does not make a tight fit with the piston body. This part will
require replacing when it no longer protrudes from the side edge of the plastic plunger. The Point Master stainless steel nozzles & piston washers are both replaceable items. They are available to order either directly
by telephone (Call local rate 0845 1160284), or via our shop <<here>>
Health & Safety
The edges of the Point Master’s nozzle may become sharp with use, so care should be taken
to avoid these sharp edges. In this respect, protective gloves are recommended.
In accordance with standard building regulations, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should be used.
