What is Tuckpointing?
Tuckpointing refers to the process of removing old, substandard, or deteriorating mortar and replacing it with new, high-quality mortar. This is typically done to restore the strength and stability of masonry where mortar joints are failing. It also helps to protect the brick surrounding the failing mortar, so that water can no longer penetrate it and cause internal brick damage.
Although the masonry of old brickwork is incredibly durable, it still suffers deterioration from time and weather. If you are noticing cracking and crumbling in mortar, it is imperative that you have it replaced immediately. Ignoring this problem can lead to damage within the brick. Once brick is damaged, there’s not much you can do but rebuild.
Specialized Brick Repair
When done well, tuckpointing in Des Moines can increase the lifespan of any brick structure significantly, while maintaining its attractive appearance. Although it’s a specialized area of brick repair it can be essential to preventing your bricks from entirely collapsing.
When To Tuck Point
When mortar joints have fallen out and have been weakened as a result.
When past repairs were done improperly and without removing damaged mortar.
When bricks have separated from the mortar.
A masonry surface likely needs tuckpointing if:
If you find any sort of cracks or crumbling in your brick structure, you probably need some tuckpointing. Damage like this is only likely to get worse over time, not better. Holes in the mortar are another sure sign that your bricks need the attention of tuckpointing exterior foundation waterproofing contractors in Des Moines. The best way to inspect your walls to find out if it’s time for tuckpointing is to hit them with a thorough power washing. After it’s all clean, it’s much easier to detect any holes or damage.
How Often to Tuckpoint
Bricks are highly durable materials, which is why brickwork is so prominent and popular. This fantastic surface can easily withstand most climates and challenges, with tuckpointing only becoming necessary every 25-30 years. Keep in mind, however, that if you’re living in areas with higher humidity or rainfall, tuckpointing may be required more frequently than that. If in doubt, contact your local tuckpointing concrete foundation repair contractor in Des Moines for a free estimate.
When it’s too late?
As with most repairs, there does come a time where even tuckpointing won’t be able to save your structure. If you don’t catch damage in time, the result may be costly and time-consuming brick repair. By this point, you’ll see large areas of your structure collapsing completely, with bricks coming loose and falling out. This usually means you’ll have to tear down the whole structure and start over, so be sure to stay on top of your masonry repair in Des Moines!
Tuckpointing in Des Moines
If you find yourself needing a professional Tuckpointing company, call BAM at 515-963-0226 or complete our online form. If you live in Des Moines or the surrounding area, contact BAM Basements and Masons for a free estimate. One of our experienced sales team advisors will evaluate your home. Once your sales team advisor has determined the causes and issues, they’ll review their findings and recommended options with you. As a team, you will decide on the ideal whole-home solution that is right for you to keep your home strong and healthy for years to come.
BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines is your premier foundation repair company serving the Des Moines, Iowa area. If you’re located in Des Moines, Ankeny, Bondurant, Altoona, Pleasant hill, Ames, Adel, Waukee, Indianola, Grimes, Urbandale, Johnston, West Des Moines, or the surrounding areas, we’re the place to call. We can help you avoid costly and stressful foundation repair mistakes, by giving you a customized solution that’s going to work for you and your home long term. BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines is a professional and locally owned and operated state registered contractor. Affordable honest upfront pricing, no hidden costs.