TUCKPOINTING IN DORCHESTER, MA

What Is Tuckpointing?

Tuckpointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from between bricks and replacing it with new mortar. This skilled masonry technique restores the structural integrity and water resistance of your chimney without replacing the bricks themselves.

Mortar joints are designed to be the "sacrificial" element of masonry construction. They're meant to deteriorate before the bricks do, protecting your investment. When mortar fails and isn't repaired, water penetrates the chimney and causes extensive damage to the bricks, flue, and surrounding structure.

Signs You Need Tuckpointing

Our Tuckpointing Process

1. Inspection: We assess the extent of mortar deterioration and check for underlying damage.
2. Mortar Removal: Using specialized tools, we carefully remove deteriorated mortar to a depth of at least 3/4 inch without damaging the bricks.
3. Joint Preparation: We clean the joints and dampen them to ensure proper adhesion.
4. Mortar Application: Fresh mortar is applied in layers, properly tooled to match the original profile and compacted for strength.
5. Curing: The new mortar is protected and allowed to cure properly for maximum durability.

Tuckpointing vs. Repointing

These terms are often used interchangeably, but technically they're different. Repointing simply means replacing mortar. Tuckpointing is a specific technique that creates the illusion of very fine joints by using two colors of mortar—one matching the brick and a thin line of contrasting color. At Elite Chimney, we perform quality repointing work that some call tuckpointing. The goal is the same: restore your mortar joints to protect your chimney.