The Perks of Hiring a Professional Tuckpointing Contractor for Brick Restoration
Brick walls and other masonry structures can last centuries, but the mortar between them deteriorates. If repairs are performed, it can result in structural stability and other costly issues.
Tuckpointing is replacing deteriorated mortar with new mortar that closely matches the color of existing bricks. It also involves embedding narrow lines of putty in contrasting colors down the center of each new mortar joint.
Enhanced Appearance
Brick structures like chimneys and walls can last centuries, but the mortar between them can degrade over time. The deterioration is caused by moisture, weather, pollution, dirt, and other environmental elements that can accelerate the decay if not addressed. The solution is to perform maintenance, including tuckpointing, which is a process that repairs the deteriorated mortar joints in brick construction.
Tuckpointing, or repointing, is filling mortar joints with new masonry materials. This technique involves grinding out deteriorated mortar and replacing it with new mortar that closely matches the old in color and strength. For a finished look that is pleasing to the eye, narrow lines of putty in a contrasting color are frequently used down the middle of the new mortar joints.
Tuckpointing requires a skilled mason to get the best results, especially for taller brick walls and chimneys requiring ladders or scaffolding. A professional mason has years of experience completing this repair work, ensuring the results will be long-lasting and attractive.
Structural Strength
Even the most well-constructed brick and stone structures will eventually show signs of wear and tear, especially as they age. These signs can be as simple as a few hairline cracks or crumbling mortar that can lead to structural damage. Regular maintenance and tuckpointing services are the best way to keep your stone and brick walls, chimneys, and fireplaces in great shape.
Tuckpointing involves removing damaged, old mortar and filling in the gaps with new, color-matched mortar. This labor-intensive task requires extreme precision to create a smooth, even appearance. Professional tuckpointing contractors have the skills and experience to correctly prepare an area before tuckpointing, mix the mortar to the proper consistency, fill joints without leaving air pockets and uneven patches, tool precisely for a smooth finish, and apply waterproof sealants.
Tuckpointing is a cost-effective way to protect and enhance your brick masonry wall or chimney. It saves you money in the long run by preventing further deterioration and the need for a costly rebuild. It also helps to preserve historical buildings by maintaining their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Waterproofing
Brick walls and chimneys can last centuries, but the mortar connecting them doesn’t fare as well. This material degrades over time and can lead to structural problems in the masonry, like leaking. Fortunately, tuckpointing can repair the mortar to prevent water infiltration and reduce future damage.
Tuckpointing contractors will remove the deteriorated mortar and fill it with new mortar that closely matches the color of the brickwork to restore its appearance. Moreover, the experts will ensure the new mortar adheres to preservation standards. This is important because modern cement-based mortar doesn’t comply with historic preservation standards and may cause irreparable damage to older brick walls and chimneys.
A professional tuckpointing contractor will know how to mix mortar correctly, tool the surface for a smooth finish, and apply waterproof sealants. They also have the experience and knowledge to identify problems that need to be visible on the surface. In addition, a professional tuckpointing contractor will work full time on the masonry and can devote their complete attention to it.
Increased Value
The mortar in brick structures such as walls, chimneys, and fireplaces deteriorates over time. Tuckpointing is removing and replacing these deteriorated areas with fresh mortar. This gives the appearance that the structure was constructed with crisp new masonry.
Tuckpointing is more labor-intensive than repointing and requires high precision to create the illusion of uniform joints. This is especially true for tall brick walls. A professional mason knows how to prepare a wall before work, mix mortar correctly, fill joints without leaving air pockets and uneven patches, tool the surface, and apply waterproof sealants.
Brick walls, chimneys, and masonry structures need regular tuckpointing to prevent further damage and maintain structural integrity. Investing in this service prevents further deterioration and keeps the property looking great for years. If you notice signs of wear, schedule an inspection with a reputable tuckpointing contractor to get started. This will help protect your investment and save you money on future repairs.
