Wisconsin Tuckpointing - Pointing - Repointing

Tuckpointing can be defined as the removal and replacement of mortar between stone, block, or brick. The objective is to replace the existing failing mortar with new mortar to match the original texture and color as closely as possible. Once mortar has been placed within the joint it is then tooled. Tuckpointing is also known as repointing or just pointing. When done properly, tuckpointing will provide a strong, waterproof joint that will help extend the life of a building.

* Point - to place plastic mortar into joints to correct defects or to completely fill joints in newly laid masonry.
* Repoint - to place plastic mortar into cut or raked joints to correct defective mortar joints in masonry.
* Tuckpointing - (1) to point masonry with a flush mortar joint that approximates the color of the masonry units and a mortar of contrasting color that is shaped into a thin strip. (2) see repoint.

Whether looking at restoration, or new construction, these are some situations that may require special attention.

When replacing defective mortar with new mortar ensure the contractor attempts to match the color and texture as closely as possible. A common mistake made in tuckpointing, replacing soft mortar with hard mortar. This may cause bricks to crack, and or blow out. While hard mortar is easier to use and therefore faster, it is likely to be detrimental to the longevity of the building.

The removal of the existing failed mortar to a sufficient depth is critical for the proper installation of new mortar. Tuckpointing without the proper depth has a much shorter lifespan. Our experience has shown most brick joints need to be cut back 1" or more to be effective. Most stone tuckpointing needs to be cut back 1 1/2". It is also fundamental to square off at the tuckpointing termination point. If the routing is done with electric or pneumatic saws the arc left at the termination point needs to be squared off. Tuckpointing is not meant to be terminated to a "feathered edge"