Tuck-pointing is the answer to you prayers:

Whether you are living in a newly built apartment or in an old townhouse you will realize that from time to time it will require repairing and replacement. You might need to replace some item in the bathroom or may be the bricks are too old and need repairing. Walls are one of the major issues in any home and require replacement and repairing more often then any other thing. If you are facing this problem for the first time then the first question that comes to your mind will be of how to handle this situation.
Tuck-pointing is the answer to all your prayers. It is the process of repairing and replacing mortar between bricks and stones. Once the building has been built and standing for 25-30 years it will start having problems such as crumbling mortar, cracks, voids which is mainly due to exposure to elements such as sun, snowing, thaw cycles or may be poor installation. These conditions call for masonry repairs regardless of the type of the building.
Once you are faced with such problems you will surely want to know how much it costs you to carry out these kinds of repairs. Generally, a typical process will cost you $7-$10 per square foot. You must also keep in mind that late spring or early fall is considered to be the ideal season for carrying out this kind of projects mainly due to the reason that this way the repairs will not be effected by the thaw cycles or the intense cold.
If you are moving in a high rise (tall building) that has been constructed recently then make sure that you have it critically inspected by a certified inspector to ensure that it is in good condition. Otherwise it is possible that you might have to face the masonry repair problems much sooner then you anticipated.