3 Reasons Why Tuckpointing is Necessary

Brick structures exude stability and have great curb appeal. That is, as long as they are correctly installed and maintained. One essential part of that maintenance is tuckpointing.

What is Tuckpointing

Over time, the exposed portion of mortar can break down. When this happens, new mortar must be installed to replace it. This is where tuckpointing, or repointing as it is also often called, comes into play.

The old, damaged mortar is removed, and the new, lime-based mortar is put in its place.

This procedure prevents the breakdown of the mortar from damaging the bricks themselves.

Reasons Why Tuckpointing is Crucial

1. Keeping Your Brickwork Pleasing to the Eye

Well-maintained brickwork can make for an attractive home, wall, or chimney.

The key phrase there is well-maintained.

If your mortar is cracking or falling out, it can quickly make attractive brick look rundown. And that is even before the mortar problems cause problems with the bricks.

Like some houses require periodic scraping and painting, brick houses need periodic tuckpointing to keep them looking good.

2. Tuckpointing Maintains Bricks’ Structural Integrity

Bricks are usually built to last for 100 or more years. Mortar lasts a significantly shorter amount of time.

If the mortar weakens and cracks or falls apart, the structure as a whole will weaken. Bricks might become loose or fall out.

Mortar issues can also lead to spalling or flaking of the bricks themselves, and the more the outer layer of the bricks flakes off, the weaker the bricks become.

3. Cracked Mortar Allows for Water and Ice Damage

Suppose the mortar begins to crack and degrade. This allows space for water to infiltrate your wall. And where there is water in Annapolis, Maryland, there will eventually be ice.

The freeze-thaw cycle adds continual strain on the structure, further weakening the mortar and harming the bricks’ structure. The water expands when it freezes, potentially even causing parts of the bricks to break off.

Need Brick Maintenance Done in the Annapolis Area? Hire Masonry Experts for Your Tuckpointing Needs

Alliance Inc. has over 20 years of experience in the masonry industry. We are experts in masonry repair and maintenance, such as tuckpointing. Contact us today for more information about our tuckpointing or other masonry services.