Here are the pros and cons of repointing and tuckpointing.
Have you ever wondered how historic brick buildings stay in good condition despite being old? Depending on the brick’s or mortar’s state or the severity of the present damage, there are several ways masons can maintain brick from deteriorating through repointing and tuckpointing. Even though the two have similar functions, they fulfill distinct purposes. So, here are the pros and cons of repointing and tuckpointing.
Advantages of Repointing
When the mortar holding the brick together starts to deteriorate, it can compromise the brick structure’s stability. To prevent further damage to your commercial property, repointing fills in and repairs damaged or crumbling brickwork to restore the structure’s integrity. Repointing also involves using a mechanical angle grinder to eliminate any damaged material before cleaning the area. That way, new mortar can fill the area. In addition, this will seal out any potential moisture from entering the brickwork.
Pros of Tuckpointing
Similar to repointing, tuckpointing utilizes fine lime mortar or a narrow ridge of lime putty to restore the brick structure’s integrity and appearance. To start the process, a mason utilizes a grinder or router to eliminate any damaged mortar before using a new mortar and cutting thin strips down the middle of the joints to develop grooves. After completion, the masons will replenish the grooves with mortar that complements the brickwork’s original color, sealing out moisture and damaging the brickwork. Overall, tuckpointing’s primary purpose is to imitate the appearance of rubbed brick. This gives the appearance of high-end rubbed bricks without spending money.
Disadvantages of Repointing
Although repointing is a preventative measure that can assist you in avoiding expensive repairs, it’s still a labor-intensive job that needs to be done correctly. Because of that, repointing is expensive, both the labor and material, depending on how much-damaged mortar there is. Furthermore, repointing is a temporary solution that will not solve anything other than the damaged mortar. So, repointing alone won’t solve other issues compromising your property’s structural integrity. You will need to hire Del Prete Masonry to examine for further damage.
Cons of Tuckpointing
While it can solve damaged mortar, tuckpointing’s purpose is to apply an aesthetic makeover usually. Just like repointing, it’s also a labor-intensive job that requires professionals to carry out, which can increase costs quickly depending on how much brickwork needs fixing.
Lastly, we hope you’ve learned something about the pros and cons of repointing and tuckpointing. Del Prete Masonry has provided superior masonry construction and restoration for over 25 years. Contact our team for a quote or any questions!
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Whether you are ready to start your next masonry project or are still hesitant and have questions, Del Prete Masonry is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to get it right the first time. Questions? Want to visit some of our residential or commercial projects? Ready to set up a consultation? Feel free to give us a call at 410-683-0650 or visit us online. We are happy to serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and to keep up with our new and exciting projects, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest
Tags: brick repointing, Del Prete Masonry, tuckpointing services