It’s a technique used on brick structures as far back as the 1700s, but today, tuckpointing is still used for masonry repair for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Your chimney could be susceptible to damage if the mortar joints are not maintained. Every 25 years or so, the mortar needs to be reinforced, and tuckpointing is the most cost-effective method used. A professional in masonry repair in Acworth, GA, can inspect your chimney and determine if it needs repairs.
Why Tuckpointing Is Used for Chimneys
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, a brick wall, even with little maintenance, has a service life of around 100 years, with many brick structures surpassing that benchmark. However, the mortar joints that connect the bricks have a much shorter service life of 25 years. When the mortar starts to wear away, a maintenance procedure called “tuckpointing” is performed. The older mortar is removed through grinding or raking it out down to a certain depth, and then that area is filled with new mortar. This is a cost-effective way to reinforce a chimney, but it is recommended that an experienced chimney sweep in Acworth, GA, or a reputable masonry contractor perform the procedure.
The Reasons for Tuckpointing
Weakened mortar allows moisture to break down the masonry and mortar joints over time. This moisture could eventually weaken the mortar joints to the point that the brick structure collapses, forcing a complete chimney rebuild. Tuckpointing prevents any water from entering your chimney’s system or structural components, and stops any mortar joint corrosion. Your chimney is restored, along with its structural stability. Not only will hiring a local chimney repair specialist save you money by preventing a total rebuild, your chimney will be restored to its original condition, which increases the value of your home.
Once the Damage is Done
If you’re seeing loose bricks, or pieces of broken mortar around the base of the chimney, chances are, it may be too late for a tuckpointing repair to be done in an effective way. Once a chimney has reached this point of disrepair, a rebuild might be the only option. This is a more expensive alternative, but a chimney that is not structurally sound could damage your roof or other parts of your home if it collapses, or even worse, pose a threat to your family’s safety. Regular inspections and cleanings by an Acworth, GA, chimney repair specialist will help you prevent deterioration and keep your chimney in good working order.
Finding the Best Pro for the Job
Tuckpointing is a labor-intensive job. When searching for Acworth, GA, chimney repair, it’s important to find a reputable professional to perform the work. Consider only those chimney sweeps and repair specialists who are experienced, fully licensed and insured to perform any masonry repairs or maintenance. The service provider you choose should also be a member in good standing of not only the local Better Business Bureau, but professional trade organizations as well, such as the Chimney Safety Institute of America or the National Chimney Sweep Guild of America. These organizations require members to adhere to a code of ethics and professionalism, in addition to providing access to regular technical updates and changes within the industry.