Tuckpointing and Repointing
Mortar wears out long before brick does. Tuckpointing and repointing grind out the loose, crumbling mortar to a sound depth and fill the joints with new mortar that matches in color, texture and strength, so the wall sheds water and keeps its shape.
- Best forCrumbling joints, open gaps and sandy mortar
- Key detailMatching mortar type and strength
- MaterialsLime and cement mortars matched to the wall
- Pairs well withCleaning, sealing and brick repair
What tuckpointing and repointing includes
- 1Right mortar for the wallOld brick often needs a softer mortar than modern brick, and we match it.
- 2Cut to depthJoints are ground out deep enough for new mortar to bond and last.
- 3Matched colorMortar color and joint profile are matched so repairs blend in.
- 4Dust handledGrinders are used with dust control and the site is cleaned after.
From first visit to finished work
- 1Inspect the jointsWe probe the mortar and find how far the damage goes.
- 2Cut outLoose mortar is removed to a sound depth.
- 3Fill and toolNew mortar goes in by hand in layers and is tooled.
- 4CleanThe wall is cleaned and the area swept.
Is tuckpointing and repointing right for you?
- You can scrape mortar out with a key
- Gaps are visible between the bricks
- You see water stains or damp inside near brick walls
- Mortar is sandy, soft or missing in patches
About tuckpointing and repointing
What is the difference between tuckpointing and repointing?
Repointing replaces old mortar in the joints. Tuckpointing is a finer technique that adds a contrasting thin line to make the joints look crisp. Both begin by removing failing mortar.
How do I know my wall needs it?
Look for gaps, crumbling mortar, loose bricks, and water coming in near the wall. Our Wall Doctor tool walks through what common signs mean.
Will new mortar match the old?
We test color and texture on a small area first, and use a mortar suited to the age of the brick so it blends and performs.
Often paired with this
Brick Repair and RestorationCracked, spalled and missing brick replaced by hand, so the wall looks whole again and works like it should.See the service 
Brick Cleaning and SealingGentle cleaning brings back the color, and a breathable sealer helps keep water out.See the service 
Chimney Repair and RepointingCrumbling mortar and failing brick on the chimney fixed before water gets into the house.See the service Find tuckpointing and repointing near you
Pick your city to see local conditions and the services people ask for most.
Thinking about tuckpointing and repointing?
Call or text, or send the form. Tell us about your property and we will tell you what we would do.