Everything has an art to it, and construction and restoration projects are no exception. In this line of work, tuckpointing is not a new art, but it is gaining popularity in the world of construction and restoration for its drastic effect on the aesthetic value of brick surfaces. The first mention of tuckpointing occurred in the late 19th century, and since then it has been used to modernize and stylize brick surfaces across the globe. All the materials necessary for tuckpointing are cheap and readily accessible, so it is not a hard process to start; however, it takes some training to get the colors and joints just right.

Match It Up

After removing the old mortar between bricks on a surface, a tuckpointing technician must create mortar in the same color as the bricks. This is accomplished using dyes and pigments that help create the most realistic look. The technician will spend as much time as they need on creating a mortar color that matches your bricks as closely as possible. This is the most important step in tuckpointing as it creates the base for the crisp lines that will come from applying a contrasting color on top of the matched mortar.

Apply the Contrast

The most common contrasting color to bricks and the first layer of tuckpointing in any color is white or light gray. This is often the color of mortar with no dye, so there is less need for color matching in this step. The crux of this step involves the fact that the lines made of the mortar in a contrasting color must be smooth and clean with little to no irregularity. While the mortar that matches the bricks is used as a base coat, it will hopefully not be noticed by onlookers once everything is dry, but the clean, regular lines should stand out to anyone who is admiring your brick surfaces.

A Masterpiece

Tuckpointing technicians and crews take pride in the crisp lines and accurate matches they create, and your satisfaction is the most important thing while they create their masterpiece. It may seem that there is not much creativity in the field of construction and restoration. However, it is indeed one of the most creative and fulfilling fields because it combines features of artistry with the practicality and resolve of daily use.

Tuckpointing is not something that seems like it would immediately stand out, and perhaps the staple feature of your property is not the brick surfaces that you own, but having these surfaces look crisp can accentuate the beauty of your property in a very minimalistic way. Even if you have aging bricks, tuckpointing can give them a fresh and clean face ready for the 21st century that will last for 15-20 years with little maintenance. 

Final Thoughts

Tuckpointing is an overlooked artform that can be utilized to give properties and brick surfaces a fresh face without breaking the bank or going overboard with complete remodels or replacement of the brick surfaces in your property. Tuckpointing is a great and long-lasting investment in your brick surfaces, and guests, potential buyers, and even your eyes will thank you! If you are interested in learning more about tuckpointing, contact Marlon Tuckpointing today for a quote to get you started on your next project!

Tuckpointing is a unique and artistic facet of the construction world that is sometimes overlooked during construction and restoration projects. Instead of being left on the sidelines like it sometimes is, tuckpointing should be celebrated for the awesome benefits it can have for the brick surfaces in your home and on your property. While it is sometimes a complicated process, the materials are readily accessible, and Marlon Tuckpointing can give you a free quote to get you started as soon as possible on your project.

What is Tuckpointing?

Tuckpointing in a nutshell is a way of using mortar in two shades to create very clean looking edges between bricks on a surface. This is accomplished by removing the old mortar and replacing it with a layer of mortar the color of the surface of the bricks. The second layer is what is mostly seen as it is characterized as clean, lightly colored lines that give the bricks a distinguished and modern appearance.

A similar job to tuckpointing is repointing, this only involves replacing the original mortar with new to remove cracks and debris. Repointing is sometimes the only necessary repair especially when aesthetic value is not a huge factor. Tuckpointing is usually the best option for those looking for a durable, effective, and cosmetically more appealing repair.

The Tuckpointing Process

Initially, the old mortar between the bricks is removed to create a space for the new mortar. Next, the mortar for the first layer is color matched to the surface of the bricks on the wall. This mortar is then added in between the bricks. Once this mortar all dries, the job is completed and should last for another 15-20 years with minimal maintenance.

Curb Appeal

Brick walls are attractive to most people. The comfort and familiarity brought by bricks and mortar is something irreplaceable. For this reason and the aesthetic value of the regularity of brick surfaces, they are a popular feature of homes and properties across the nation. Unfortunately, your brick surfaces may be underappreciated right now due to aging mortar or cracking, but tuckpointing can resolve this issue and return your brick surfaces to their former glory.

Tuckpointing keeps the classic look but makes it modern all at the same time by creating crisper lines that really define your bricks and make them look as good as new. Tuckpointing can also help in keeping water from entering the inner parts of the brick surface giving your walls, chimneys, and fireplaces a longer lifespan.

Final Thoughts

Tuckpointing is a wonderful process when completed correctly, and there is an incredible array of applications for this style of replacing mortar. If you feel like your brick surfaces are not living up to their full potential due to old mortar, cracks, or other damage, tuckpointing may be a good option for you to clean up your brick surfaces. If you have any questions about tuckpointing or would like a quote, contact Marlon Tuckpointing today to discuss your options.