What Is Tuckpointing?
If you own a brick home, as you probably know, you have a beautiful design feature which increases the value and appeal of your home. But did you know that all masonry needs repair at some point? Mortar joints can become damaged over time due to harsh weather conditions, particularly excessive amounts of water. Tuckpointing is a repair process which stops the destructive process and provides numerous benefits.
What is Tuckpointing
While bricks can last more than a century, mortar has a much shorter lifespan. Depending on how exposed the masonry is to excess water and other harsh conditions, mortar joints can last as long as 25 years. The layout of your home and the position of your chimney (if you have one) can affect how much or little water drainage contributes to erosion of the mortar joints.
When mortar joints become damaged, the most cost-effective action that a homeowner can take is to repair affected areas via tuckpointing. Tuckpointing is the process of removing damaged mortar and replacing it. If damaged mortar joints on your chimney are not repaired, water can seep down the chimney, and sometimes between the chimney and flue lining. Water can also enter through deteriorated mortar on brick walls which can cause a serious amount of unseen damage like mold, mildew, and rotting interior wood. Moisture can also cause interior damage to your ceiling and walls around the chimney structure.
Tuckpointing is far more cost-effective than a complete tear-down and rebuild. It also means that your masonry materials are restored to their original condition and, coincidentally, the value of your home is improved when the masonry is in top condition.
