repointing: mortar necessary, or will silicone do?

I have an older brick house built in the mid 1920's that needs a bit of repointing. I've seen some silicone products that you can use for this purpose, it seems like it might be easier.

Which route should I go, mortar or silicone?

thanks, gigo

 

You probably CAN, but the correct question is why you would WANT to? It will look pretty crappy, I'm thinking.

 

Hi Gigo,

If by silicone, you mean, mortar that comes in a caulking container, then you should use this if the mortar joints require a light touch up, (ie. small cracks or holes that can easily be filled). I've used this method for this type of repointing and it works fiine. Although, the colour difference between old and new mortar using this method is more pronounced.

If you have to fill bigger and deeper gaps in the mortar then, I suggest using mortar and the appropriate pointing tools. In the end, the joints come out much stronger and they last much longer.

Cheers,

torin18