Tuckpointing can add decades to the life of your masonry. This is a critical component of brick maintenance, but we don’t think it gets talked about enough. If you’re unfamiliar with mortar replacement or want to know more about how tuckpointing works, check out this informative guide from Grosse Pointe Chimney Repair.
Definition of Tuckpointing
Tuckpointing involves removing old mortar and replacing it with new mortar. Here at Grosse Pointe Chimney Repair, we take the time to match the texture and color of the new mortar with the existing joint lines. This allows for seamless repairs time and time again. Our goal is to look like we were never there but to leave your bricks fortified for decades.
How the Tuckpointing Process Works
Here is an overview of the steps in tuckpointing:
- Remove cracked mortar or any mortar that needs to be replaced. In some cases, the mortar flakes right off. We will grind off the remaining mortar to create a clear surface for adhesion.
- Clean out the mortar joints. We try to remove any dust or debris that may prevent the new mortar from properly attaching to the bricks.
- Match the new mortar to the existing mortar. About 10% of the time, this will involve adding color to the mortar. It’s usually just a matter of figuring out which aggregate was used for the mortar mixture and creating a comparable consistency.
- Install new mortar to the full bed depth. It’s important to go all the way in to properly secure the bricks. Otherwise, there will be a gap between the surface mortar and the inner mortar, which may lead to stability issues later on.
- Tool the joints to match the surrounding mortar. We allow the mortar to dry and bond a little bit before we do this so the joints are more likely to hold their shape.
The end result is a reliable seal around the bricks that can protect the masonry for years to come.
Benefits of Tuckpointing for Masonry Repair
If your mortar is weak, your bricks will suffer more damage than normal wear and tear. Your bricks already suffer from freeze/thaw damage, UV exposure, precipitation, high winds, and many other factors. The effects of those become magnified when your mortar is crumbling.
Tuckpointing acts as a brace between your bricks, allowing them to stay stable and secure for as long as possible. It also improves the appearance of your bricks to make them look freshly installed – even if they’ve been there for decades. If you’re selling your home, this could boost offers. If you just bought a new home, this could give you peace of mind.
Also, note that tuckpointing is far more affordable than brick replacement or widespread masonry repair. Taking this proactive measure now can save you a ton of money in the future. Just make sure you hire a crew that can get the job done right the first time.
Think You Might Need Tuckpointing? Schedule an Appointment with Grosse Pointe Chimney Repair
Tuckpointing is one of the core masonry repair services we offer at Grosse Pointe Chimney Repair. We are proud to serve many areas in and around Grosse Pointe MI, and our bricklayers have over 20 years of experience. If you’re worried about the structure of your masonry, we’d be happy to conduct an inspection and provide a free estimate. Please call (313) 263-1660 to schedule a masonry repair quote.
