QuikPoint vs Mortar Bag vs Manual Pointing

When it comes to tuckpointing or filling mortar joints, you have three main options:

1. Traditional mortar bag,
2. Manual mortar gun, or
3. A powered system like the QuikPoint Drill-Mate.

Each method has strengths, drawbacks, and ideal use cases. Whether you’re a contractor, a DIY homeowner, or someone tackling a small repair, this guide breaks down what you should choose — and why.

1. Traditional Mortar Bag (Manual Pointing)

This is the oldest, simplest, and most budget-friendly method. A mortar bag works like a piping bag for concrete: fill it → squeeze out mortar → brush joints smooth.

Pros

• Very low cost
• Perfect for tiny repairs, patch jobs, and detailed touch-ups
• No equipment required besides a bag + brush
• Good for areas where precision matters more than speed

Cons

• Slowest method
• Hands get fatigued quickly
• The mix must be very fine and smooth or it clogs
• Harder to maintain consistent bead flow
• Not ideal for long runs or full-wall repointing

Best For:

• DIY homeowners
• Occasional small cracks or 1–2 sq. ft. areas
• Historical detail work where minimal tools are preferred

2. Manual Mortar Gun

A step up from a bag, manual mortar guns let you use a trigger or a handheld plunger to apply mortar through a tube. They offer more control — but still rely on arm strength.

Pros

• Faster than a bag
• More consistent bead application
• Good for medium-sized repair work
• Less hand fatigue than a bag

Cons

• Still manual labor — takes effort to pump
• Can clog easily if the mortar is too thick
• Slows down significantly on large jobs
• Harder to clean if mortar begins to set inside
• Some guns struggle with gritty mixes

Best For:

• Medium repairs
• DIY users wanting better speed than a bag
• Tight budgets

3. Powered Mortar Gun: QuikPoint Drill-Mate

The QuikPoint Drill-Mate attaches to a cordless or corded drill and uses an internal auger to deliver mortar quickly and consistently.

This is the professional choice for anyone who values time, speed, and clean joints.

Pros

• Up to 5× faster than manual pointing
• Handles a variety of mortar types (when mixed correctly)
• Auger keeps flow consistent — fewer clogs
• Excellent for long runs and large surfaces
• Multiple nozzles for horizontal, vertical, and stone joints
• Less fatigue → drill does the work
• Much cleaner finish with reduced wasted material

Cons

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires a drill with decent torque
• Needs basic training on mix consistency
• Must be cleaned properly after each use

Best For:

• Professional masons
• Contractors doing repeated tuckpointing
• Large brick walls, stone walls, retaining walls
• Anyone wanting to maximize speed + reduce labor

Time & Cost Comparison (Practical Reality)

If time is money, the QuikPoint quickly pays for itself.
If budget is tight and the job is tiny → a bag makes sense.

4. What to Consider Before Choosing

Do you own a drill?
QuikPoint requires a standard drill (preferably cordless, high-torque). No drill = no powered gun.

How big is your project?
<5 sq ft → mortar bag
5–40 sq ft → manual gun
40 sq ft to full walls → QuikPoint

Can you maintain mix consistency?
QuikPoint needs a smooth, pumpable mortar — thicker mixes slow flow. Traditional bags also suffer from clogging if the mix is too grainy.

Will you maintain the tool?
The QuikPoint works best when cleaned after use (flush with water). Manual guns clog more if not cleaned; bags are disposable.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose QuikPoint Drill-Mate if:

• You want maximum speed & efficiency
• You’re doing a large job
• You work professionally or regularly
• You want consistent, clean joints with minimal effort

Choose a Manual Mortar Gun if:

• You do medium-sized repairs
• You want decent speed at low cost
• You don’t mind some physical effort

Choose a Mortar Bag if:

• You have tiny, occasional fixes
• You’re a DIY homeowner
• You don’t want to invest in tools
• Precision is more important than speed