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 The old fashioned way of finishing bricks, tuckpointing, is making a comeback. To tuckpoint, means to point masonry with a flush mortar joint that matches the color of the masonry units, often bricks, and to apply a mortar of contrasting color that is shaped into a thin strip.
This method of securing bricks to one another was developed in the nineteenth century in an effort to imitate brickwork that was constructed using hand cut bricks. Over time, the mortar in joints of buildings, walls, steps, and walk ways will deteriorate. When this occurs, the structure needs to be tuckpointed.
The process of tuckpointing begins with scraping the loose mortar between the bricks to a depth of approximately a half an inch. The old mortar is then slightly dampened, and then the space is filled with new mortar by pressing it in between the bricks.
Tuckpointing requires special tools for handling the mortar, such as a hawk and a pointing trowel. Historical societies that want to preserve the integrity of masonry, may require you to use such tools, as opposed to machines like drills.
Having an expert craftsman, like the artisans at Rose Restoration Int’l, Inc., is critical in knowing how delicate this process can and should be. For over 30 years, Rose Restoration has been providing stone restoration services to historical hotels, government buildings and national musems. If you have the need for tuckpointing services, contact Rose Restoration today.
About the Author: Richard Dasch is the President & Founder of Rose Restoration . For 30 years, Rose Restoration has performed professional tuckpointing for some of the nations finest hotels, both modern and historical. Your decision to choose Rose Restoration can be made with confidence. Our attention to detail and safety, and protection of your assets is what sets us apart from our competition.
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