Is Tuckpointing The Solution? 

Water can be devastating to the structure of the chimney. If there are cracks in the bricks and mortar, water penetrates thissurface and causes cracks. As the temperatures decrease and freeze, the water and moisture freeze. As it freezes and thaws, those cracks will increase. This is where tuckpointing comes into play. We will start with what it is.

What Is Tuckpointing?

Tuckpointing is a technique used to repair mortar joints between bricks or stones. The old, cracked mortar is chiseled out andreplaced with new mortar. Colors are matched to the existing bricks. Once the new mortar is inserted into the cracks, a thincontrasting color line of mortar is then applied to give the illusion of a fine, clean joint between the bricks. This improves the look of the bricks but also seals the moisture out. This also improves the masonry and protects it from further damage.

What Are the Benefits of Tuckpointing?

• Extends the life of the chimney. As mentioned above, water can be very detrimental to your chimney. Tuckpointing will protect the bricks and mortar from continued moisture and water getting into the joints.
• Restores the structural stability of the chimney. By removing cracked and chipped mortar and replacing it with tuckpointing, you are essentially filling the gaps between each brick, solidifying the strength of the chimney.
• Cost-effective. Tuckpointing when needed will save you money. It is much less expensive than rebuilding the entire chimney.
• Water not only causes cracks and chipping. When moisture gets into the joints between the bricks, mold and mildew can develop. Once this is in the bricks, mildew can grow and, on occasion, become out of control, causing wood rot as well.
• The chimney looks much more appealing when tuckpointing is complete.
• A beautifully repaired chimney will raise the value of your home.

When is Tuckpointing Not The Answer?

• When bricks are severely damaged or wall reconstruction is required. If this is your situation, it’s time for a rebuild.
• If there are underlying issues like foundation shifting, the stability of the structure needs further attention. Tuckpointing would not solve this problem.

Tuckpointing is an important year-to-year maintenance for the structural integrity and appearance of brick structures such as your chimney. It prevents water damage. Enhances the look of the home and extends the life of the chimney.

However, it is recommended by chimney professionals to get an annual chimney sweep and chimney inspection. This will alert you to any issues that may be happening to your chimney and fireplace. Not all damage is visible to the naked eye and should be examined by a professional. Our team at Chimney Specialists Inc. is professionally trained to care for anything chimney and fireplace. Call us for an appointment today.

CHIMNEY SPECIALISTS INC. prides itself on offering customers and contractors in the tri-state area of northeast Iowa, northwest Illinois, and southwest Wisconsin complete installation service, nationally certified technical experts, a huge selection of quality stoves and fireplaces, and of course, competitive pricing.