Grinding clinker and re-pointing?

Hello,

I am a new, fresh homeowner and have the following luxury problem. I don't really like the clinker of our bungalow - it is a rough dark stone with thick dark gray joints. The house was built in 1980 and the inspector said that technically everything is fine, but basically the joints crystallize and wash out because of the joint material. Over the years, this leaves white spots on the clinker (outside).

I have attached a photo of an interior wall, which is identical to the exterior clinker. Outside, it is generally a bit more weathered.

My specific question is, can I have this type of stone ground down so that it becomes a bit smoother? What type of joint mortar (correct word?) should I use afterwards to make it more durable?

Best regards to you all

Such efflorescences usually disappear by themselves after some time. If not, then with water and a brush.

Why didn't you take a picture from the outside?

Sanding will work. But it will probably look very lousy, to avoid using another word that also starts with "lous...".

can I sand (have sanded) this type of stone so that it becomes a bit smoother?

Be glad that these are hand-formed bricks – thin format in smooth finish looks, to put it mildly, unusual. Apart from that, there's no sanding to be done. That's how it is.