A Guide on Tuck-Pointing Bricks and Blocking Foundations

Mortar tends to deteriorate with time.

Such cracked and deteriorated mortar joints, not only appear unsightly, but they also tend to diminish the surface integrity, allowing water to permeate behind the brick leading to water blockage that is responsible for causing major damages to the wall. You can however avoid and get rid of all such problems by the process of tuck-pointing the block or brick foundation. 

You can easily hire any professional tuck pointing contractors in Hinsdale to carry out the job for you.

The most common process they are likely to follow includes the steps given below. Read on:

Preparing Joints

1.    This is the first step that is generally carried out by tuck pointing contractors in Lincoln Park.

2.    They cut out damaged mortar joints with an approximate depth of ¾” to about 1”. This is done by making use of a special plugging chisel that helps preventing binding in the joints and chipping off of brick edges.

3.    A good bonding always demands a clean surface. Therefore, tuck pointing contractors Wrigleyville make sure they use a jointer tool in order to rake out excess grit or mortar. Then, they brush out the joint for removing any loose sand or mortar.

Replacing Bad Bricks

Damaged bricks in the wall that have badly worn out over time should be removed and carefully replaced with the new ones before repointing. 

Make sure you select new bricks that perfectly match the old ones. You can contact any brick repair professional in Hinsdale, to help you find an ideal brick match.

1.    Let the brick repair expert in Evanston cut out the old brick completely and get it out of the wall.

2.    Allow him to clear out the recess thoroughly.

3.    Then let the brick repair professional in Wrigleyville wet the cavity along with the replacement unit with a fine spray or brush dipped in water. Make sure the cavity is left damp and is not completely wet with water.  Now apply a thick layer of mortar mix to the sides and bottom of the cavity.

4.    Butter the top of the replacement brick and insert it into the cavity.

Repointing          

1.    The cleaned joints should be dampened with brush and water.

2.    Next, fill the trowel with mortar. Pick up mortar from the trowel by making use of the jointer tools and fill it into the joints. Make sure the mortar if firmly packed into the joints. First repoint the head joints followed by the bed joints. This sequence allows the brick repair professionals in Evanston to make continuous, unbroken horizontal strokes with the help of the jointer for forming even and straight bed joints.

A week or two later, after the mortar has been completely set up, make sure you apply a coat of some superior quality silicone or acrylic masonry sealer to the entire repaired surface. You can hire professional painting contractors in Wrigleyville to carry out the job for you.