15 May What Is Tuckpointing?
If you own a building or structure with masonry work, you’re probably familiar with some of the mortar damage and deterioration that can occur over time. Thankfully, there are things that can be done, short of replacing brickwork completely, to improve the appearance and stability of your masonry. One of the most popular techniques for brick maintenance is tuckpointing. Tuckpointing is designed to improve the aesthetic appearance as well as the function of masonry work by replacing older deteriorating mortar with new mortar. This relatively simple process can completely transform the appearance of your brick and ensure that it stays protected from the elements.
The tuckpointing process
During tuckpointing, a masonry contractor will scrape out some of the old mortar from your wall. Then, the brick joints are filled with new mortar made from fine white clay or putty. Using white mortar to fill joints between bricks creates a distinct aesthetic that makes the brickwork appear to be cleaner and tighter. The process has been used since the late 18th century and it continues to be a popular method of masonry maintenance.
As mortar ages and deteriorates, it becomes weaker and is more likely to be penetrated by moisture. When moisture seeps into your masonry joints, it can wreak havoc on your brick and your mortar. In some cases, mortar deterioration can become so bad that it leads to widespread masonry damage and even interior moisture damage in your building. If you notice mold or mildew developing on interior walls, it’s likely that your mortar is letting moisture in.
The best way to avoid moisture damage and masonry deterioration is by taking preventative steps to protect your brick. Tuckpointing is an effective way to keep your mortar strong and well protected against water damage. After you have tuckpointing done, your masonry will be far better protected from water and humidity.
Unfortunately, tuckpointing is not always a viable option for masonry, depending on the condition of the brick and the mortar. If your brick is becoming unstable or seems to be coming loose from your wall, the structural integrity of your entire wall is compromised. Since brick wall collapse can result in a pretty significant safety threat, not to mention building code violations, you should have your brick inspected regularly to ensure that it’s still standing strong. If you get tuckpointing in Indianapolis, IN done on a regular basis, you may be able to boost its longevity and prevent the need for premature replacement.
Learn more about tuckpointing in Indianapolis, IN
If you’re brickwork has been looking a little shabby, let the team at Knauss Property Services help you with professional tuckpointing in Indianapolis, IN. We provide comprehensive exterior maintenance services for commercial properties, including leak repair, sandblasting, masonry restoration, painting, stucco repair and waterproofing. Our team of trained and certified professionals is here to help keep your commercial building looking fantastic for years to come. Regardless of what specific services you are looking for, we would be more than happy to assist you. To get a professional assessment of your building, just give us a call today.