Tuckpointing – The Basics and Why your Chimneys Need It

A fireplace or a chimney adds to the beauty and design of a home. But, all homeowners will agree that maintaining a chimney and a fireplace needs regular repair. Over a period of time, mortar joints become loose and sometimes crack due to moisture.Masonry contractors in Hinsdale strongly advise that chimneys should be inspected by a reputed handyman service every two years in order to check if any tuckpointing is required. Neglect of maintenance can lead to bigger problems and sometimes the destruction is irreversible.

Let’s read a little more about the chimney basics –

1. Can Tuckpointing Be Avoided?

Mortar has a definite life span after which it needs rebooting. Depending on the prevailing weather in your area, your mortar can last up to 25 years. The roof layout and location of the chimney will also determine the strength of the mortar joints. Masonry contractors in Hinsdale advise that tuckpointing is the only sure shot method of increasing the life of a chimney and a fireplace.

2. What Is The Method Of Tuckpointing?

The basic aim of tuckpointing is to replace damaged mortar with fresh one. Tuckpointing is done as follows –

• Glass Replacement| 
• Grounding of damaged mortar
• Filling of new mortar in the grooves
• Cutting of strips in the fresh mortar
• Ensuring that the color of the fresh and old mortar matches

3. The Advantages of Tuckpointing

Tuckpointing ensures that the corrosion of mortar is controlled. It also strengthens the stability of the chimney. It prevents the water from entering the structure; water seepage can cause significant damage. Tuckpointing is much cheaper than rebuilding the whole structure. A home with a well designed and maintained chimney reflects on the personality and value of the building