Chimney Repointing vs. Tuckpointing
06/22/21
As time passes, weather erodes the mortar joints in your chimney and can trigger brick decay, voids, and cracks–especially between the bricks. Openings in your chimney materials can allow moisture to enter and diminish the strength of the structure. Chimney masonry services in Northern Virginia and Maryland can address these structural issues with repointing or tuckpointing services. Understanding the difference between each service can help you restore your chimney correctly and efficiently. Chimney.com has been offering chimney services in Virginia and Maryland since 1989. Our licensed and bonded chimney technicians will guarantee to get your chimney structure refurbished and ready for proper performance this season.
Contact Chimney.com today to schedule a chimney inspection to determine if it would benefit from repointing or tuckpointing services today!
What is Chimney Repointing?
Chimney repointing is done to seal mortar joints exposed to weather elements that can lead to breaks and cracks. The process of chimney repointing requires grinding out the existing mortar joints between the brick by ¼ inch to ½ inch. After the joints are refilled with new mortar and the excess is removed for a smooth, beautiful new look for your chimney!
Repointing is more of a functional repair that strengthens the wall and seals out future water infiltration. (Tuckpointing addresses cosmetic damages to chimney masonry but isn’t as concerned with fixing actual structural damages.)
When Should You Repoint?
At the first sign of a crack in your brick or mortar, you need chimney repair services. Much like a crack in a windshield grows and expands from one small rock hole, a crack or hole in your brick will grow and spread, putting the whole chimney structure at risk. Repointing is only necessary if existing damages are present.
What is Chimney Tuckpointing?
Tuckpointing is a preventative and aesthetic chimney treatment that uses fresh mortar to fill in gaps or holes in your chimney masonry to prevent cracks and crumbling. The fresh mortar color matches the original mortar with a v-groove to simulate a thin joint between the joints. Tuckpointing becomes necessary when masonry is infiltrated by moisture after a heavy storm or due to exposure to rain and humidity over time.
Why is Chimney Repointing or Tuckpointing Sometimes Necessary?
As a homeowner striving to protect your home investment and keep repair expenses down, you don’t want to see cracks or breaks in your mortar. You may find yourself wondering why mortar fails. Here are some of the common reasons:
- Poor original workmanship
- Freeze/thaw damage
- Lack of appropriate annual maintenance
- Chemical corrosion and byproducts from combustion/water vapor
Annual Chimney Maintenance Helps Prevent Repointing and Rebuilding
Virginia and Maryland residents that service their chimneys annually avoid the need for repointing or rebuilding. Potential problems with your masonry or chimney brickwork are addressed quickly and efficiently so that joint repair is minimal and water isn’t allowed to permeate your brick structure. Avoid the costly expense of a chimney rebuild by diligently scheduling annual chimney inspections with Chimney.com. We will ensure that your chimney structure is intact and that your chimney is functioning properly during your chimney sweep and inspection.
Contact Chimney.com today to schedule a chimney inspection to allow our expert team the opportunity to assess your chimney’s structure and cleanliness.