Tuckpointing & Repointing Services

Tuckpointing and repointing are specialized masonry techniques that involve removing deteriorated mortar from between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they have subtle differences. Repointing simply means replacing old mortar with new mortar that matches the original. Tuckpointing involves filling joints with mortar and then adding a thin line of contrasting putty to create a clean, refined appearance.

Your mortar joints do critical work protecting your brickwork. They create a weather barrier that keeps water out of your walls while allowing moisture to escape. When mortar deteriorates, it creates pathways for water to seep into your masonry. This water causes damage that gets worse with every rain and every freeze-thaw cycle. What starts as a small gap can eventually lead to loose bricks, interior water damage, and expensive structural repairs.

In Hollywood's climate, mortar faces constant challenges. Salt air, humidity, and temperature changes break down mortar faster than in other regions. We see homes where mortar that should last 50 years needs replacing after 20 or 30 years. Regular inspection and timely repointing can extend the life of your masonry by decades and save you thousands in repair costs.

Catching mortar deterioration early makes repairs easier and less expensive. Here are the warning signs we look for when inspecting masonry in Hollywood. If you notice any of these issues, it is time to call for an assessment.

Warning Signs You Need Tuckpointing

• Crumbling or powdery mortar that falls out when you touch it
• Gaps or missing sections in mortar joints where you can see daylight through the wall
• Cracks in mortar joints that run horizontally or vertically between bricks
• Water stains on interior walls near exterior brick surfaces
• Loose or shifting bricks that move when pushed
• White chalky deposits on brick surfaces, known as efflorescence
• Mortar that recedes deeper than one quarter inch from the brick face
• Visible erosion where mortar joints look worn or weathered

When you spot these warning signs, do not wait. Water damage accelerates quickly once it starts. Our team provides free inspections throughout Hollywood to assess your mortar condition and recommend the right solution. Sometimes a small repointing job is all you need, while other situations require more extensive work.

Quality tuckpointing requires skill, patience, and the right materials. We follow a proven process that ensures lasting results and protects your investment. Here is what you can expect when you hire us for tuckpointing or repointing work.

Careful Mortar Removal

We start by carefully grinding out the old, deteriorated mortar to a depth of about three quarters to one inch. This depth is important because it gives the new mortar enough surface area to bond properly. We use specialized grinders and hand tools to avoid damaging the surrounding bricks. This step takes time and precision, but it is crucial for a repair that lasts.

Mortar Mixing and Matching

Next, we mix mortar that matches your existing mortar in strength, color, and texture. This is where experience matters. Using mortar that is too hard can crack your bricks, while mortar that is too soft will deteriorate quickly. We test samples to get the perfect match before we start filling joints. For historic properties, we often use lime-based mortars that match the original construction methods.

Expert Application and Finishing

We fill the joints in layers, allowing each layer to cure properly before adding the next. This prevents shrinkage cracks and ensures a strong bond. Once the mortar reaches the right consistency, we tool the joints to match your existing profile. Whether your joints are flush, concave, or another style, we recreate that look precisely. The finished work blends seamlessly with your existing masonry.

If you need brick replacement along with repointing, we coordinate both services efficiently. Most residential tuckpointing projects take three to seven days depending on the size of the area. We work section by section to minimize disruption and protect areas that are not being worked on from weather and debris.