If you live in a brick-and-mortar house or have a historic brick chimney or foundation, tuckpointing is an essential service that can prevent damage from growing into an extensive repair. Masons specializing in tuckpointing know how to prep the area before beginning work, mix mortar correctly, fill joints without leaving air pockets or uneven patches, and tool effectively for a smooth finish.
Prevents Water Damage
Tuckpointing restores brick structures and preserves their structural integrity. This prevents damage from water infiltration and natural deterioration of mortar joints.
When mortar starts to deteriorate, it can lead to cracks in the walls or chimney and structural collapse. Tuckpointing contractors remove damaged and old mortar, then replace it with fresh mortar to ensure the structure’s longevity.
This process can also be used to fix a leaking roof or other areas of the home. By addressing minor problems early on, tuckpointing can save homeowners tens of thousands of dollars in costly repairs later on.
Tuckpointing is a labor-intensive job, best left to masonry professionals. They know how to mix mortar correctly, fill joints without leaving air pockets or uneven patches, tool the cannon for a smooth finish, and apply waterproof sealants correctly. Tuckpointing is essential to maintaining the value and integrity of brick homes, and it should be done regularly.
Increases Home Value
Tuckpointing can increase your home’s value by preventing water damage, improving aesthetics, and adding curb appeal. This process is also crucial for preserving historic buildings, as it helps extend their lifespans.
While tuckpointing can be a DIY project, it’s often best left to professional masons. They have the experience to make sure your structure looks beautiful, and they know how to mix mortar correctly so it doesn’t leave air pockets or uneven patches.
Tuckpointing contractors use electric grinders to remove the deteriorated mortar in the joints of brick structures like walls, chimneys, and patios. Then they fill these joints with new mortar, ensuring the color matches and blends into the existing brickwork. This is typically completed in the spring and autumn when temperatures are mild. This way, the elements will only affect the new mortar once it hardens. Moreover, choosing a contractor that uses a quality mortar and is licensed is essential. They will also ensure the job is completed promptly and within your budget.
Saves Money
Tuckpointing is much less expensive than complete masonry repair or replacement. It also prevents small cracks and deterioration from worsening, saving you even more money.
While it is possible to tuckpoint yourself or hire a cheap mason, the best option is to choose a professional that has experience and knowledge in working with brick structures. They will know how to prepare the area for tuckpointing, mix mortar correctly, fill joints without leaving air pockets or uneven patches, tool effectively for a smooth finish, and apply waterproof sealants properly.
Some masons also offer decorative tuckpointing that involves adding color to the new mortar for a more appealing look and additional protection. This extra cost can be a good investment for some homeowners. Be sure to ask what kind of payment schedule the contractor works on before starting any work. They should take half the payment upfront and the other after completion.
Increases Appearance
Brick walls and chimneys that have been tuckpointed recently offer a crisp appearance to buildings. This increases their curb appeal, which can help property owners get a higher sales price on the real estate market.
While tuckpointing is possible as a DIY project, it’s generally best to leave it to professionals. They understand how to mix mortar correctly, fill joints without leaving air pockets or uneven patches, and tool effectively for a clean finish. They also know how to match the color of mortar to that of the existing brickwork and ensure each line is perfectly straight.
Property owners need to inspect their brick structures and schedule tuckpointing when necessary. A tuckpointing job can save money on an expensive demolition and rebuild project by extending the life of the mortar joints and preventing water damage to brick and masonry. In addition, a handsome-looking building adds value to the property and can make it more appealing for potential buyers and tenants.