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What is Tuckpointing?
Tuckpointing, sometimes referred to as repointing or brick pointing, is a process to finish or repair mortar joints between bricks or stones with a narrow ridge of lime putty or fine lime mortar. It provides a facelift to the exterior of a building, but its purpose is more than aesthetic; it also helps maintain or strengthen the integrity of a structure by helping to seal out moisture. At Extreme Masonry Solutions, our experienced masons perform tuckpointing to help prevent further moisture problems and damage to walls and chimneys.
When is Tuckpointing Necessary?
Mortar typically lasts between 20–30 years before it needs maintenance. A trained mason or construction expert can inspect your building’s exterior to determine if and when tuckpointing may be necessary.
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Obvious signs of mortar damage may include mortar joints that are cracked, broken, partially missing, or protruding from the surface. In serious cases, bricks or stone can also show spalling, cracking, or crumbling and may even break away from the building. These conditions require immediate attention to prevent further damage to the structure. In severe cases, replacing a masonry facade may be necessary.
Ideally, tuckpointing is performed as a proactive measure long before a brick wall or masonry structure shows the obvious need for repair. It can be a challenge for the average person to notice the early signs of mortar damage, so enlist an expert to assess your needs. If you’re looking to add on to your facility, ask your construction manager to inspect your existing facility for any needed repairs and work it into your construction budget.
It’s important to note, however, that cracks in mortar and brick aren’t always a result of normal wear and tear. Cracks in a brick exterior could be a signal that the building’s foundation is shifting or compromised, in which case, you’ll need to enlist the help of a structural engineer to determine necessary repairs to the foundation prior to any repairs.
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How is Tuckpointing Done?
Tuckpointing is labor intensive and the costs can add up if there is extensive mortar damage. That is why it’s best to be proactive to minimize future repairs.
A mason begins by using a router or grinder to remove any damaged mortar. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators, goggles, face shields, and other dust suppression systems are often used to help minimize the risks associated with fine dust particles.
Typically, new mortar that matches the brick is used to fill the routed areas, followed by cutting thin strips down the middle of the joints to form grooves. The final step is to blend the final coat of mortar to match the original mortar color and fill in the thinner groove. This technique results in clean lines and strong joints.
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Professional tuckpointing will help extend the life of walls and chimneys by preventing further damage from the elements. When renovating or adding on to your brick or stone facility, be sure to discuss whether tuckpointing should be part of your construction bid or master plan.
For the best tuck pointing services in Macomb Township, give Extreme Masonry Solutions a call today at 586-443-9410.
