Tuckpointing & Repointing Services

The mortar between your bricks does more than hold everything together. It creates a weathertight seal that keeps water out of your walls. It allows for slight movement without cracking your bricks. It even helps regulate moisture within the masonry. When mortar deteriorates, all these protective functions break down. What starts as a small crack or a section of crumbling mortar can quickly escalate into serious structural problems and expensive water damage.

Tuckpointing and repointing are specialized techniques for repairing deteriorated mortar joints. While many people use these terms interchangeably, they refer to slightly different processes. Repointing involves removing damaged mortar and replacing it with fresh mortar that matches your existing joints. Tuckpointing goes a step further by using two contrasting colors of mortar to create the appearance of very fine joints, a technique often used in historic restoration work. Both processes require skill, the right materials, and attention to detail to ensure lasting results.

Here in Sunnyvale, the combination of weather conditions and building age means many properties need tuckpointing or repointing services. Older homes with original mortar often show significant deterioration. Even newer construction can develop mortar problems if low-quality materials were used or if the original installation was not done properly. Our team at SV Sunnyvale Masonry specializes in both techniques, matching mortar colors and textures to make repairs that blend seamlessly with your existing masonry while providing superior protection against the elements.

Ignoring deteriorating mortar joints is one of the costliest mistakes homeowners make. What looks like a minor cosmetic issue actually represents a serious threat to your masonry structure. Once water penetrates through damaged mortar, it begins a destructive cycle that accelerates the deterioration of both mortar and brick.

The Progressive Damage of Failing Mortar:

• Water infiltrates through cracks and gaps in deteriorated mortar joints
• Freeze-thaw cycles cause trapped moisture to expand, widening cracks and gaps
• Salt deposits leach from bricks, appearing as white staining on surfaces
• Bricks begin to spall as water damage progresses from the joints into the brick faces
• Structural integrity weakens as more mortar crumbles and falls away
• Interior water damage develops as moisture penetrates through walls
• Mold and mildew growth occurs in damp areas behind and within walls

The longer you wait to address mortar problems, the more damage occurs and the higher your repair costs climb. What could have been a straightforward repointing job becomes a major brick repair and restoration project. In extreme cases, entire sections of wall may need rebuilding. Early intervention through professional tuckpointing or repointing saves you money and protects your property from extensive damage.

Quality tuckpointing requires more than just filling in gaps with new mortar. We follow a precise process that ensures your repaired mortar joints will perform properly and last for decades. Each step matters, from the initial assessment to the final cleaning.

Careful Mortar Removal

We start by carefully removing deteriorated mortar to a consistent depth, typically around three-quarters of an inch. This requires specialized grinding tools and a steady hand to avoid damaging the surrounding bricks. Removing too little mortar means the new material will not bond properly. Removing too much or working carelessly can chip or crack your bricks. Our experienced masons know exactly how to remove old mortar cleanly and efficiently.

Custom Mortar Matching

Not all mortar is created equal. Different brick types and ages require specific mortar compositions for proper performance and appearance. We analyze your existing mortar to determine the right mix of cement, lime, and sand. We also match the color precisely so your repairs blend seamlessly with the original work. Using mortar that is too hard can actually damage softer historic bricks, while mortar that is too soft will not provide adequate protection. We get the formula right for your specific masonry.

Expert Application and Finishing

We apply new mortar in layers, allowing proper curing time between applications. This ensures strong bonding and prevents cracking as the mortar cures. We tool the joints to match your original joint profile, whether that is concave, flush, or another style. Proper tooling is not just about appearance. It also ensures the joint sheds water effectively. After the mortar reaches the right consistency, we clean the work area and protect the fresh mortar while it cures. The result is professional tuckpointing that looks great and performs reliably, just like our chimney repair services.