Tuckpointing is a restoration technique used on brick walls. The process is quite simple, tuckpointing contractors in Chicago remove old mortar leaving gaps between the bricks, the gaps are then filled with new mortar, color coordinated to match that mortar that is still in good repair. Tuckpointing is often thought of as an aesthetic repair but in many cases it is technically important as it seals a pathway where water can enter the structure and cause significant damage.
Is tuckpointing something that must be done?
The life expectancy of bricks is considerably longer than the life expectancy of mortar, bricks may last 100 years or more while mortar may only last 25 years or so depending on the environmental conditions.
When mortar begins to fail, it will fall out from the joints between bricks. A homeowner really has two options; option one is to hire tuckpointing contractors in Chicago and have the chimney or wall repaired, the second option, not very attractive or cost efficient is to simply let the mortar deteriorate until such time as the chimney or wall needs to be torn down and rebuilt.
How is tuckpointing done?
Basically the idea is straight forward; remove old, damaged mortar and replace it with new mortar. The first step is to grind or chip out loose mortar to a depth of about one half inch, once this has been completed, clean the joint with an old paintbrush. The mortar is mixed to match the color of the existing mortar. The joint is dampened and the mortar mix is forced into the joints using a trowel specifically designed for pointing. Once the mortar has dried, perhaps a week or so, a sealer is applied. A sealer is extremely important in areas with below freezing temperatures which can turn water in the joint to ice, causing expansion and deterioration.
If the mortar between the bricks in your chimney or wall is beginning to deteriorate it is important to have the problem area repaired.
If you notice deterioration of the mortar joints anywhere on your house you should call tuckpointing contractors in Chicago. Fortune Restoration offers local masonry and tuckpointing services in Chicago areas like Wilmette, Oak Park, Evanston etc. Contact Domain Url for a free estimate. We are also on Facebook.
