Brick Point

Tuckpointing is a term commonly used for removing deteriorated mortar between bricks and replacing it with new mortar. The technical term for this repair is repointing. The replacement mortar must be compatible with the existing masonry and installed inside the joint, not placed over damaged mortar.

Crumbling, cracking, missing, or deeply recessed mortar joints are signs that repointing may be needed. If you can easily scrape mortar from the joint or see gaps where water can enter, the masonry should be inspected before more material breaks away.

Crumbling mortar can let more water into the wall and leave the surrounding brick less supported. As deterioration spreads, individual bricks can loosen and the repair can become more extensive. Repointing damaged joints early is usually simpler than waiting until the brickwork itself starts failing.

Properly done repointing can last for decades. The biggest factor is whether the replacement mortar is appropriate for the existing masonry and applied correctly. Ongoing water problems can shorten its life, so leaks or drainage issues affecting the wall should be addressed as part of the repair.

Small masonry repairs may be possible in cold weather when the temperature stays above our 36–38°F working minimum and the masonry can be kept dry and protected. We postpone the work when snow, ice, falling temperatures, or other conditions could prevent the mortar from curing properly.

Surface flaking often happens when brick absorbs water and repeated freezing and thawing breaks the face apart. This is called spalling. Damaged mortar, poor drainage, or trapped moisture can make the problem worse, so the moisture source should be addressed along with the damaged brick.

Brick usually should not be painted or sealed without first understanding how moisture moves through the wall. The wrong coating can trap water inside the masonry and accelerate deterioration. If the brick is already damaged or frequently wet, the cause should be identified before applying any coating.

We price masonry work after inspecting it and determining the repair scope. The amount of deteriorated mortar, damaged brick, access, and type of repair all affect the total price. We confirm the price before work begins.