Tuckpointing for Brick and Stone Buildings

What are the signs that your building needs tuckpointing? A recessed joint indicates dusting of the mortar. Water may be trapped in the joint, which can cause further damage to the building. Stress cracks are also common around windows and above doors. They usually go through the mortar, so repairing them will involve replacing the bricks. The cost of tuckpointing depends on the size and shape of the building. A masonry professional can provide an accurate estimate.

Cost of tuckpointing

Tuck-pointing can save you money in the long run by preventing water damage and costly replacement of bricks. Brick is durable, but mortar wears out quickly due to moisture. If left unchecked, moisture in mortar can lead to serious damage, including foundation troubles that can be prevented. Luckily, replacing the pointing will prevent further brick and mortar replacement, and keep your building looking its best for years to come. Listed below are some tips for tuck-pointing brick and stone buildings.

A gallon of tuckpointing cement costs around $25 per gallon, depending on the size and type of your job. Fortunately, there are a number of types available at affordable prices. Cement is a common tuckpointing material, and it is available in many colors. Depending on the size and type of the job, caulk may be the best option for tuckpointing bricks and stone buildings.

Labor-intensive nature of tuckpointing

Tuckpointing is a precise process that replaces crumbling mortar in the joints of brick and stone buildings. It also prevents moisture from penetrating the structure. Depending on the age of a building, this process may take a long time. A professional should perform the repairs as part of a construction plan and bid. Contact a local mason to discuss your tuckpointing needs.

The cost of tuckpointing for brick and stone structures can range from $5 to $25 per square foot, with costs increasing as the height increases. Scaffolding must be used if the building is above eight feet, adding to the labor and expense. Additionally, chimneys command significantly higher prices than ground-level tuckpointing. This procedure is often used during historical restoration projects, as it provides the desired brick look and preserves the structural integrity of the building.

If your building is more than 100 years old, you should consider getting tuckpointing for its exposed mortar joints. This important maintenance procedure prevents cracks in brick and stone that could damage the building's foundation. A trained construction expert or mason can evaluate the exterior of a building and advise you on the amount of tuckpointing necessary. If a professional tuckpointing company is involved, you can rest assured that the repair work will be done properly, and the cost will be minimal.

Requirements for tuckpointing

Tuck-pointing a brick or stone building is a vital maintenance technique for commercial buildings. While well-constructed brick and stone buildings should last for decades, they do need periodic maintenance and repairs. Over time, mortar joints may become loose or cracked and require repair work. Tuck-pointing brick and stone buildings can be a lucrative business venture. Among the common types of structures that can be repaired with tuck-pointing techniques are chimneys and historical restorations.

The process of tuck-pointing requires different types of mortars, which are mixed to match the existing mortar. It is a good idea to consult with an expert to determine if your building needs tuck-pointing and budget for future repairs. Signs of mortar damage include cracked or missing joints and spalling brick or stone. Cracked mortar may be a sign of underlying damage.

Labor-intensive nature of repointing

Repointing brick and stone buildings requires the use of mortar that is softer than the bricks, otherwise the structure of the building could be compromised. Natural hydraulic lime mortar was used for many homes before the 1930s, but most modern homes are made of masonry materials that are harder and require a different type of mortar. Though there are a few to choose from, the most common mortar used for repointing is type N, which is the softest form of mortar, because harder types can damage the bricks. A bag of this mix will cover up to 40 square feet of mortar joints.

Before beginning the process of repointing brick and stone buildings, the joints should be thoroughly cleaned. Remove any mortar that has been clinging to the brick or stone, and make sure that square corners are present at the back of the cut. After the removal of the old mortar, rinse the joints with a jet of water. The joints should be damp, but should not have standing water. A misting of water should be applied to the joints several hours before the repointing process begins.