Des Moines Brickwork Brigade

PROFESSIONAL MASONRY CONTRACTOR IN & AROUND DES MOINES 

Tuckpointing Services

Mortar isn’t built to last forever. Over time, it cracks, crumbles, and flakes out from between your bricks—especially after years of battling moisture, ice, and Des Moines’ freeze-thaw cycles. Once that bond starts to break down, water slips in, the structure weakens, and the entire wall can begin to deteriorate. That’s where tuckpointing makes the difference.

We carefully remove failing mortar and refill the joints with a new mix that matches the original in color, texture, and finish. Whether it’s an entire wall, a chimney, or just a few worn sections, quality tuckpointing strengthens the structure and restores the appearance—without the cost of a full rebuild.

It’s meticulous work, but when done right, it adds decades of life to your masonry. Clean lines, tight joints, and brick that stays solid. That’s what we deliver.

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MASONRY CONTRACTOR IN DES MOINES

How Tuckpointing Works

Tuckpointing is precise, technical work that strengthens your masonry and restores its original look. When mortar joints start to break down, there’s only one reliable solution: remove the damaged material and repoint the joints properly. Here’s how we handle it in Des Moines:

Assessment
We start by inspecting more than just the surface. We check the overall condition of the wall—looking at bricks, corners, support structures, and any signs of moisture damage or previous patchwork that could affect the job.

Mortar Removal
Loose, cracked, or deteriorated mortar is carefully ground out to a consistent depth—usually about ¾ of an inch. This step has to be clean and controlled to avoid damaging the bricks. We use dust-controlled tools to keep the job site tidy and safe.

Mixing & Color Matching
We mix new mortar to match the original joints as closely as possible—color, grain, and finish. Especially in older Des Moines homes, a good match is key to making the repair blend in instead of standing out.

Repointing the Joints
The new mortar is packed firmly into the joints and tooled to match the original lines. This is the step where technique matters most—clean, consistent, and properly bonded. No shortcuts. No sloppy lines.

Final Check & Cleanup
After the mortar cures, we clean the wall and inspect every section for strength, alignment, and finish quality. The end result should look like it’s always been there—just cleaner, tighter, and ready for decades of Iowa weather.

Tuckpointing done right doesn’t just fix the wall—it extends its life and restores your peace of mind.

 

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MASONRY CONTRACTOR IN DES MOINES

Signs You Might Need Tuckpointing

Mortar joints usually fail slowly, and by the time damage is easy to spot, it’s already affecting the structure. Catching it early can save you from bigger repairs down the line. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Cracked or missing mortar between bricks

  • Visible gaps or loose joints you can flake out with a fingertip

  • Water stains on interior walls or near chimneys

  • Uneven brick lines where the wall looks like it’s shifting or settling

  • White powder or staining on the brick surface (efflorescence)

Tuckpointing is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of a masonry wall—if it’s done before the bricks start to move or break. If you’re not sure what you’re seeing, we can take a look and let you know if it’s time.

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What is tuckpointing, exactly?

Tuckpointing is the process of removing and replacing deteriorated mortar between bricks to restore the structural integrity and appearance of your wall. In Des Moines, it’s a common maintenance practice to combat weathering caused by Iowa’s humid summers and freeze-thaw cycles.

Why is tuckpointing important for my home in Des Moines?

Over time, mortar can crack, crumble, and wash away due to weather and age. Tuckpointing prevents water infiltration, preserves the strength of your walls, and keeps your brickwork looking its best. It’s a cost-effective way to avoid more extensive (and expensive) repairs down the road.

How do I know if my brickwork needs tuckpointing?

Look for signs like crumbling or missing mortar, cracks between bricks, or water stains on the walls. If you notice any of these, it’s time to call a professional mason for an assessment. Early repairs can save you a lot of money and headaches.

How often should tuckpointing be done in Des Moines?

Most brick homes in Des Moines need tuckpointing every 20–30 years, depending on the quality of the original mortar and exposure to the elements. Homes that face harsh weather or heavy water exposure might need it sooner. A professional inspection can help determine the right schedule for your property.

How much does tuckpointing cost in Des Moines?

The cost varies based on the size of the project, the condition of the mortar, and accessibility. Small spot repairs are usually affordable, but larger projects like full wall tuckpointing can be more significant. We provide free estimates to give you a clear picture of the costs before starting any work.

Can I do tuckpointing myself?

While small mortar touch-ups might seem doable, proper tuckpointing requires specialized tools, skills, and knowledge of masonry. DIY mistakes can lead to water leaks, structural problems, or even damage to your home’s value. For lasting results, it’s always best to hire a professional mason.

How long does a tuckpointing project take?

Most tuckpointing projects in Des Moines can be completed in two to five days, depending on the size of the area and the extent of the damage. After a thorough inspection, we’ll provide a timeline and keep you informed every step of the way.
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DES MOINES BRICKWORK BRIGADE IS READY TO HELP

Don’t Wait for the Wall to Give — Fix Your Mortar Now

Tuckpointing isn’t just about looks — it’s about keeping your entire wall stable and watertight. When mortar starts to crack, crumble, or wash out, the bricks lose their support and your structure slowly starts to shift. Left alone, small joint failures turn into major repairs.

We grind out the failing mortar and repoint your wall with a new mix that matches both the strength and the color of the original. It’s detailed work, but it’s the only way to extend the life of the brick and avoid expensive rebuilds later.

If you’ve noticed crumbling joints, water seeping through your walls, or bricks that feel loose to the touch — don’t wait. The sooner you deal with failing mortar, the cheaper and cleaner the job is.

Call or fill out the contact form to schedule a no-pressure inspection, or send us a photo and we’ll take a look.

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Proudly Serving Des Moines and the Surrounding Area

We proudly serve Des Moines and surrounding areas like Beaverdale, Drake, East Village, Merle Hay, and more. If you’re anywhere in the metro and need reliable masonry work, we’re the team to call.

Our work is built for Iowa’s shifting climate with its humid summers, deep freezes, and constant temperature swings that wear down brick and mortar over time. We know how to keep walls solid, chimneys safe, and foundations steady. Not sure if you’re in our service area? Reach out and ask—we’ll get you a straight answer.

Services Areas

  • Downtown Des Moines
  • West Des Moines
  • East Village
  • South Des Moines
  • Beaverdale
  • Sherman Hill
  • Ingersoll Park
  • Drake
  • Waterbury
  • Valley Junction

Services

Visit Us

  • 3819 Douglas Ave
  • Des Moines, IA 50310,
  • or call us at: 515-400-4147

OPENING HOURS

  • Monday - Saturday:
  • 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

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