Daily Archives: January 20, 2024

Brick walls and chimneys make a beautiful statement but also need regular maintenance to maintain their structural integrity. Call a professional masonry contractor to perform tuckpointing services if your mortar joints deteriorate. One simple test you can do is to rub a key across the mortar joints. If the rubbing scratches or releases powdered material, the mortar needs to be tucked-pointed.

Prevents Water Damage

The mortar in your brick structures is critical to their stability, and if it starts to deteriorate, the structure may suffer severe water damage. Tuckpointing is a service that aims to limit this damage by filling in areas where the mortar has been eroded or damaged by harsh weather conditions. Mortar also serves another function in your brick building: evenly distributing weight. It prevents the structure from buckling or collapsing due to gravity, which could cost you much more in repairs or replacement costs. Tuckpointing contractors work to match the color of your existing mortar as closely as possible. While this can add to the overall price of the service, it creates a uniform look that makes your home or building stand out. Additionally, tuckpointing contractors will work to keep your structure moisture-free, saving you money on costly repairs and mold problems.

Prevents Pests

Brick structures are highly durable and low-maintenance, but the mortar joints between bricks or stones can deteriorate over time. This deterioration allows water to penetrate the walls and cause damage to the structure, as well as exposing the building to pests. Tuckpointing halts the deterioration of mortar and preserves structural integrity. Tuckpointing contractors can spruce up the appearance of your facility and protect against potential pest issues. Faulty tuckpointing can create gaps or cracks between bricks and stones that can serve as entry points for insects and rodents, which are often attracted to such openings. In addition, tuckpointing contractors can ensure that any cracks or gaps in the brick and stone are filled with mortar compatible with your building’s existing brick.

Tuckpointing is a complex process that requires special tools and equipment. Experienced tuckpointers can minimize the risk of silica exposure by using vacuum dust collection systems during the process, which is essential since silica poses respiratory risks if not adequately ventilated.

Enhances Curb Appeal

When a brick structure’s mortar deteriorates, moisture can exacerbate an unattractive appearance. Regular tuckpointing ensures the masonry joints are in good condition, protecting against damage and maintaining a beautiful appearance. Tuckpointing is similar to repointing, but the process involves a more intricate design that requires expert craftsmanship. Instead of removing and replacing the old mortar, contractors add contrasting putty to the joints. It highlights the new mortar and creates a crisp visual to make your building look brand-new.

Several factors can influence the cost of tuckpointing services. For example, the extent of the work and how hard it is to reach certain areas may drive the price. Also, if the brick structure is classified as historic, a contractor must work with preservation standards that can add up in terms of time and materials.

Tuckpointing is a valuable investment for homeowners with brick walls, chimneys, or fireplaces. It offers a blend of aesthetics, structural integrity, and longevity that elevates property value.

Increases the Lifespan of Your Building

Tuckpointing is an essential service that helps extend the lifespan of brick walls and chimneys. It prevents deterioration caused by water infiltration by filling the spaces between bricks, restoring a mortar’s strength. Capillary action draws moisture into brick walls without tuckpointing, leading to mold growth, rotting, and leaks. In addition, tuckpointing allows masonry structures to stand up against temperature changes. Mortar damage is often difficult to identify, but a trained mason or construction expert can evaluate the condition of your building’s masonry structure and determine when it is time for tuckpointing. It is best to schedule regular tuckpointing services as part of your facility’s maintenance budget rather than waiting until the structure shows apparent signs of need.

When selecting a tuckpointing contractor, ensure they use the same type of mortar as the original application or as close as possible. It ensures a cohesive visual appearance and optimal bonding. An experienced tuckpointing contractor will also consider historic preservation, accessibility in tight or high areas, and moisture control when performing a repair.