Step 5: Pack it Down

packing down mortar with a tuck-pointing trowel
Photo: John W. Taylor
«»
Wait 60 to 90 minutes for the mortar to set up enough to leave a thumbprint when pressed. Using a tuck-pointing trowel, smooth and pack down the mortar so that it matches the height of the existing joints. Clean the stones as necessary.
Next

Related Content

Ask TOH users about Driveway & Walkway
Discuss

Contribute to This Story Below

Add Comment

    More in Exterior

    Tools List

    Close
    • safety glasses
      Safety glasses
    • gloves
      Gloves
    • knee pads
      Kneepads
    • 3-pound hammer
      3-pound hammer
    • mason's chisel and maul
      Masonry chisel
    • mason's brush
      Masonry brush
    • one-and-a-half inch paintbrush
      Paintbrush
    • brick trowel
      Brick trowel
    • grout bag
      Grout bag
    • pointing trowel
      Tuck-pointing trowel
    • mortar pan
      Mortar pan

    Shopping List

    Close
    1. 60-pound bag of sand/topping mix

    2. 1 gallon of acrylic fortifier

    3. Water