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Pointing versus plastering

Short answer

Pointing fills only masonry joints with mortar to protect them and expose the surface, while plastering covers the entire wall surface to protect it and provide a smooth finish.

Differentiate between pointing works and plaster works.

PointPointingPlastering
MeaningFinishing of joints of masonry with better mortarCovering of the whole wall surface with mortar
Area coveredJoints onlyEntire surface
Mortar thickness12-20 mm deep in joints12-20 mm over the wall
Used onExposed brick and stone masonryWalls and ceilings (internal and external)
PurposeProtect joints and show masonryProtect wall, hide defects, give a smooth finish
MortarCement-sand 1:3 or lime mortarCement-sand 1:4 / 1:6
CostCheaperMore costly
AppearanceBrick or stone texture is visibleBrick or stone is hidden

✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)

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