Although both tuckpointing and repointing can enhance your existing masonry, these two techniques can have stark differences for homeowners in Milwaukee.
The Differences
Whenever you remove old mortar and replace it with new, this is called repointing.
On the other side of the coin, tuckpointing is where you replace the damaged mortar with the same, or similar color, to the bricks. This is what you see when a thin line of contrasting color runs down the centers of new mortar joints.
One Shared Goal
Although both techniques are not interchangeable, both tuckpointing and repointing have one goal: to remove damaged mortar and replace it with a new one. Bricks are long-lasting, but the mortar can lose strength as time goes by.
Repointing vs. Tuckpointing
It’s not uncommon to confuse both repointing and tuckpointing. After all, they both aim to restore masonry. Additionally, they both replace old and worn mortar as well.
The difference is more visual, as in, you can notice by the aesthetics. As mentioned above, repointing doesn’t involve a contrasting line in the middle or center of the mortar. With tuckpointing, you use more than one color. One fills the mortar joints, and the second is used to fill the center. Doing this creates an illusion that the mortar joints look straight.
What is the point of repointing?
Repointing brick masonry is critical when the mortar begins to crumble. If you begin to notice a layer of dust, that’s another time to consider repointing the masonry. All that is to say, your masonry structure is safe, but this is a form of preventative maintenance.
Think of it this way. If you leave any cracks or holes in your masonry, water can freely enter. Pair that with the harsh winters of Milwaukee, and you’re looking at masonry getting hit with salt deposition and frost weathering.
What is the point of tuckpointing?
Similar to repointing, the main objective of tuckpointing is to correct broken-down mortar. Not only does tuckpointing strengthen the structure of your masonry, but it also makes it look better.
Whenever you get tuckpointing, we can imitate the look of rubbed bricks. Rubbed bricks is the bright red finish you often think of when you hear bricks. Paired with the white contrast of the joints and tuckpointing can give you a sleek-looking contrast.
How Much Do Repointing and Tuckpointing Cost?
Even though some of the materials used with repointing and tuckpointing are inexpensive, you are paying for the skill of the masonry.
Additionally, the cost of both can be dependent on where the masonry work is needed on the home. The tougher and smaller the area, the more expensive it will likely be.
Do you Need Repointing and Tuckpointing in Milwaukee, WI?
With the knowledge of repointing and tuckpointing, you will be more equipped to find the best repointing and tuckpointing company in the area. Semper Fi Roofing and Exteriors is proud to serve homeowners in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin. We’re confident that we can meet and exceed your expectations for your masonry project with our team of qualified, certified, and experienced staff.
