The most common damage to masonry is worn mortar joints. This occurs due to temperature changes or when water gets inside of the structure. You can prevent this problem and extend the life of your exterior with tuckpointing.
What Is Tuckpointing?
Tuckpointing, also known as repointing, refers to the process of repairing mortar joints in stone or brick masonry wall. It’s done by grinding or raking old mortar and filling the space with new mortar. This task is best handled by professionals and isn’t advised for DIYers.
While brick doesn’t require ongoing maintenance, the mortar needs occasional updating. The easiest way to determine if tuckpointing is needed is by dragging a screwdriver across the mortar joint. You’ll know that a tuckpointing is needed if it scratches up powdered material. The masonry shouldn’t get scratched if it’s in good shape.
Other Signs Your Masonry Needs Tuckpointing
Your masonry needs tuckpointing if you notice a whitish substance on its surface. Gaps, holes and cracks in the mortar are also indications tuckpointing is necessary.
When tuckpointing is delayed, water can seep into your exterior and cause more damage. It can cause bricks to become loose and fall from the structure. The climate where you live can also affect how frequent your masonry requires tuckpointing. Usually, all masonry work will need to have mortar joints repaired around every 25 years or so.
Don’t wait if your home’s exterior needs tuckpointing. At Exterior Building Solutions, our tuckpointing specialists use the latest tools to locate and fix cracks. You can also count on us for your emergency roof repair, siding replacement and gutter installation. Call us at (314) 470-8783, or complete our online form to request a free estimate. We work with clients in St. Louis and Chesterfield, MO.