PROFESSIONAL MASONRY CONTRACTOR IN AND AROUND BUFFALO
Tuckpointing Services
Mortar doesn’t last forever. Over time, it cracks, flakes, and starts falling out between the bricks, especially after years of exposure to moisture and freezing temperatures. When that happens, the structure weakens, water finds its way in, and the whole wall starts to break down. That’s where tuckpointing comes in.
We remove damaged mortar and carefully refill the joints to match the original style, color, and finish. Whether it’s a full wall, a chimney, or just a few trouble spots, proper tuckpointing helps reinforce the structure and restore the look of the masonry without needing a full rebuild. It’s clean, precise work, and when done right, it extends the life of the wall by decades.
MASONRY CONTRACTOR IN DES MOINES
How Tuckpointing Works
Tuckpointing is detailed, technical work that strengthens a wall and restores its original appearance. When mortar joints start to fail, the only reliable fix is to remove them and repoint them properly. Here’s how we approach it:
Assessment
First, we evaluate the wall itself—not just the surface joints but the overall condition of the bricks, corners, and support areas. We check for signs of movement, moisture, or previous repairs that could impact the job, especially in Des Moines, where temperature fluctuations can affect the structure.
Mortar Removal
Old, loose, or crumbling mortar is carefully ground out to a uniform depth—usually about ¾ of an inch. This must be done precisely to avoid chipping or damaging the bricks. We use dust-controlled tools to keep the site cleaner and safer, particularly in older homes that require extra care.
Mixing and Color Matching
We mix new mortar to match the existing joints as closely as possible. This includes the base color, the grain, and the finish. Especially on older homes, getting this right is the difference between a seamless repair and a noticeable patch job. This is critical for achieving a natural look that blends well with the rest of the masonry.
Repointing the Joints
The new mortar is packed tightly into the joints and tooled for a clean, professional finish. This part requires a steady hand—lines need to be consistent, smooth, and fully bonded. We take our time here, ensuring that there are no gaps and everything is done correctly.
Final Check and Cleanup
Once the mortar sets, we clean the surface and inspect everything for alignment, bond strength, and finish quality. The goal is to leave the wall looking original—only tighter, cleaner, and ready to withstand Des Moines’ extreme weather conditions.
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.
DES MOINES BRICKWORK BRIGADE IS READY TO HELP
Plan and Execute a Successful Masonry Project
A good masonry job starts with a clear plan—knowing what needs to be done, how deep the damage goes, and what kind of finish will match the existing structure. We walk through all of that with you before work begins, so you know exactly what to expect. No rushed estimates, no uncertainty. Once we start, we work cleanly, stay on schedule, and make sure the job gets done with care from start to finish.
Don't Hesitate to contact us and get the solution
Well-maintained mortar doesn’t just protect your walls—it helps your home keep its shape through years of shifting temperatures, moisture, and settling. Whether it’s a few loose joints or a full repointing job, catching it early makes all the difference in how easy it is to fix.
Reach out today, we’ll be glad to give you an estimate free of charge.
