Bricks give a unique appearance to houses, buildings, and other structures. Yet, when homes are exposed to harsh weather conditions such as freezing temperatures and significant rain, nature’s elements can take their toll on the mortar between the bricks. Mortar joints can give way due to excessive moisture, and when this occurs, the moisture could weaken the structure and lead to waterproofing issues. For this reason, it’s important to contact a Milwaukee foundation repair specialist who can help to prevent the destruction or deterioration of the mortars in the bricks — a process known as tuckpointing.
What is Tuckpointing?
Tuckpointing uses two contrasting colors of mortar in brickwork, which can have an enhancing effect on the property. The precise, intensive process is typically done every 20 years to ensure that mortar deterioration does not put the structure at risk. However, tuckpointing is also commonly used for newer buildings where the damaged mortars require replacement.
Signs You Need a Tuckpointing Service
Moisture, time, and weather can all impact the function, arrangement, and appearance of your property. As time goes on, it will become easier to see whether your home needs a touch-up. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to call a Milwaukee foundation repair professional who can use tuckpointing to repair the mortars:
– Cracked, dirty, or dark basement walls
– Exterior bricks with a washed-out color
– Discoloration or spots caused by outflows
– Damaged or loose brickwork
Benefits of Tuckpointing
Any experienced Milwaukee foundation repair specialist will tell you that there are many benefits of hiring a tuckpointing service. Tuckpointing can maintain the longevity of your properties by removing damaged and aging mortar joints, thus preventing further corrosion from leading to structural instability. Tuckpointing can also prevent water from entering your basement, solving subsequent issues from water damage such as rot, mildew, and mold.
By using tuckpointing, you are sure to save money on an otherwise expensive construction job. A demo and rebuild project would almost surely cost you more money than replacing the mortar joints. In addition to avoiding costly construction work and securing the longevity of your property, tuckpointing also improves or restores the beauty of your property. With a handsome-looking building, you will be able to maintain, or even increase, in the value of your property.
Final Thoughts
Remember, though, to hire only professional tuckpointers who are experienced with the process. Accurate Basement Repair doesn’t offer tuckpointing service on its own. We only do it in conjunction with a basement repair. So if someone calls and just needs tuckpointing, we would refer them to an experienced mason that we work with. Removing deteriorating mortar joints in your basement walls is not as simple as you might think. This is a delicate job requires the experience and skills of a tuckpointer, especially if the building in question is a historic structure that requires careful restoration.
Call the foundation professionals at Accurate Basement Repair today at (414) 744-6900 for a free estimate, or to learn more about our basement repair services.
Image by Masonry Guy (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons
