Tuckpointing…have you heard of it? If not, you may be wondering what it is and whether or not your brick structure may need it. Don’t worry! The professionals at Cummins Restorations are here to clue you in on everything you need to know about this mortar joint repair technique.
So, What IS Tuckpointing?
Over time, the mortar used to fill the joints between bricks deteriorates; this is when tuckpointing shows up to save the day! Tuckpointing is the technique used to repair the damaged mortar, refill the joints, and improve the aesthetic appearance of the bricks.
How Is Tuckpointing Achieved?
Tuckpointing is done by removing a portion of deteriorated mortar, refilling the joints with new mortar with a color that matches the bricks, and then applying a thin line of putty down the center of the joint that contrasts the mortar. Thus creating the appearance of well-maintained and narrow joints!
How Common Is Tuckpointing?
Tuckpointing is most often found on historical brick homes as a way to recapture the beauty of the home’s original thin joints. However, tuckpointing can be used on any type of brick construction.
Is It The Same As Repointing?
The terms tuckpointing and repointing are often used interchangeably. However, they are actually two different techniques! While both will involve removing and replacing damaged mortar, tuckpointing includes the additional step of applying putty down the center of the joints.
Fillets Not Filets
“Fillets” are the narrow lines of putty that run down the center of the new mortar joints. Fillets are always applied in a contrasting color from the mortar to create the aesthetic appearance of crisp, thin joints.
How Do I Know If My Structure Needs Tuckpointing?
While bricks tend to last at least a century, the lifespan of mortar is much shorter – often lasting 25 to 30 years. Chances are your brick structure will need to undergo tuckpointing more than once during its lifetime, and should be done when mortar begins to crumble and fall out of the cracks.
While it is possible to try tuckpointing yourself, we strongly recommend hiring a professional to complete this precise and labor-intensive repair. For more information, contact us at (416) 992-7965 or cumminsrestoration@rogers.com.
