Is Tuckpointing The Solution?

Overtime, your home may start to break down due to exposure to the elements. Your chimney, in particular, is subject to storms — rain, hail, extreme winds, and frost and thaw cycles — which can all impact the aesthetic and structural well-being of the chimney. While some wear and tear could require full rebuilds and hefty repairs; other issues may be solved with some spot checking and small-scale repairs. 

What Is Tuckpointing?

Tuckpointing is a repair method that is frequently used on brickwork that could refresh the structure with some minor updates and reinforcements. This repair method is used on many different brick structures, not just chimneys. It’s a simple and effective way to update your structure without completely rebuilding. Tuckpointing works by removing old, deteriorating mortar and the chimney professionals will replace it with new mortar. Your chimney will look newer, while also maintaining your chimney is structurally sound.

How To Perform Tuckpointing

Tuckpointing is best performed by the professionals, as it is an intensive process that requires knowing the best way to perform the repairs. Below are the main reasons you should call the chimney professionals to complete this job:

• Professionals use special equipment to perform tuckpointing the best way possible.
• It can be a potentially dangerous repair process. Chimneys are tall — sometimes multiple stories — so some of the mortar wearing out may be at a high height, requiring ladders.
• Tuckpointing requires close attention to detail that the common homeowner may not have an eye for. It’s easy to miss potential areas of the mortar that can benefit from some repair work. 
• You will see your investment if you pay for a professional tuckpointing job. It isn’t the easiest task which means that professional finesse will likely be visible. 

How Often Is Tuckpointing Needed?

It’s recommended to hire professionals to perform tuckpointing roughly 20-25 years after the original build of your home. Subsequently, tuckpointing may be required a bit sooner, as it isn’t a complete reset to “new”. This doesn’t mean the job wasn’t done well, rather it is expected that you’ll need to tuckpoint in the next few years again. If professionals believe that you would need more frequent repairs, they may suggest a larger scale repair to ensure structural stability. Factors such as climate and storms can also heavily impact how often you need reapplication. If you aren’t sure if you should have tuckpointing done to your chimney, you can always ask the professionals for their opinion on the best way to proceed.

Could You Benefit From Tuckpointing? Call Chimney Specialists Inc. Today

If your chimney is looking worn and in need of some care, it may be time to call Chimney Specialists Inc. with your questions or to book an appointment for tuckpointing. If it turns out you are in need of some repairs, we can determine the right path for you with your timeline and budget in mind. Regular maintenance can help avoid issues in the future and make for the most enjoyable fire experiences throughout the season.