Clarity About Tuckpointing
Tuckpointing is the process of finishing or repairing mortar joints on brick or stone masonry work in Chicago. It uses a narrow ridge of lime putty or fine lime mortar to create the finished look. Tuckpointing Chicago is a popular way to provide a new look to a building exterior, but it does much more than that too. Tuckpointing also adds strength to the building’s structural integrity.
When is Tuckpointing Needed?
Mortar usually lasts 20 to 30 years before maintenance is required. A skilled mason contractor in Chicago can offer a thorough building inspection on the exterior to establish if tuckpointing might be necessary.
Direct indications of mortar damage could include mortar joints that have cracks, are broken, partially missing, or they could be protruding out from the surface. In the most serious cases, bricks or stones can also display spalling, cracking, or crumbling.
It is quite important for older masonry buildings to have tuckpoint in Chicago, as they are typically missing air gaps, weeps, and vents, all of which are commonly found today. Without these newly added features, moisture can flow through the masonry to affect the interior finishes.
What is the Tuckpointing Process?
Masonry contractors in Chicago start by removing the damaged mortar with the help of a router or grinder. The use of personal protective equipment, like respirators, goggles, face shields, and other dust suppression solutions is common to minimize health risks from exposure to fine dust particles.
