Tuckpointing contractors offer a variety of masonry services. One is tuckpointing, which uses two different mortar colors to create an attractive finish. Ignoring masonry damage is a recipe for disaster. Water and rot can seep in, cause structural damage, or even collapse the wall or chimney.
Aesthetics
Many brick structures need tuckpointing, including new constructions and old historic buildings. It is essential to check for mortar damage and get it fixed before it gets out of control, especially since it can lead to structural failure that will put your building at risk of collapse.
Mortar damage can be caused by several factors, including the constant expansion and contraction of masonry, salts eroding the surface, over-painting with oil-based paints, mildew, and organic growth. Tuckpointing contractors replace deteriorating mortar with fresh material to repair damage and restore the appearance of brick surfaces.
This process also involves adding contrasting putty to the joints for an attractive, crisp look. This step is typically performed on historical brick structures to recapture the appearance of their original thin joints. A professional tuckpointing contractor can provide you with a quote depending on the project size, structure height, weather, and other factors. It is best to hire a reputable company with a solid track record.
Waterproofing
A tuckpointing contractor restores the strength of brick walls, chimneys, and other masonry structures by replacing damaged mortar joints. This process revives the compactness of the mortar and re-establishes its load-bearing capabilities. It’s better than tearing down the structure and starting over, which can be costly. Masonry is subject to a lot of wear and tear, including exposure to sunlight, rain, snow, wind, and other natural elements.
As a result, the mortar fillings that hold bricks together start to deteriorate over time. If this is left unattended, it will lead to further damage and even structural instability. Tuckpointing contractors can replace the old, powdery mortar with new material to give a building or structure a fresh look. This process will also help to protect against water penetration and other moisture-related damage, such as fungus growth or mold infestation.
Durability
Brick masonry is durable and can last centuries, but the mortar that fills the joints can deteriorate over time. This unsightly deterioration can leave brick structures vulnerable to damage, such as moisture damage or even collapse. Regular tuckpointing can prevent this damage by filling in the cracks and crevices that allow water to seep into the bricks. It can also prevent pests from nesting in the nooks and crannies of your building’s structure, including termites and carpenter ants.
It is important to note that tuckpointing should only be done by a skilled masonry contractor who understands the specific needs of a brick structure. This includes consideration of historic preservation, accessibility in tight spaces or on high structures, and the proper way to mix mortar for a long-lasting finish.
Professional masons can also spot other problems with your brick structures, like loose bricks, that could be dangerous. This is another reason why routine tuckpointing is an excellent investment for property owners.
Maintenance
Brick structures, including houses and chimneys, require tuckpointing services to preserve structural integrity. Without this service, the mortar between the bricks can deteriorate and allow water to infiltrate the structure. If left unchecked, the damage can be significant and costly.
A tuckpointing specialist can perform a simple test to determine if masonry needs maintenance work. Just drag a key or sharp object across the joints; the mortar needs maintenance if it scratches up the powdered material.
Conclusion
The process of tuckpointing involves replacing damaged and worn mortar between bricks. It requires skill and knowledge of how to match the new mortar color with the existing brick, ensuring a clean, uniform look. This is especially important when performing commercial tuckpointing on historic buildings.
When evaluating a potential tuckpointing contractor, ask them for client references and to see photos of their work. It’s also essential to know their insurance coverage in case an accident occurs during the project.
