Chimney mortar needs TLC due to the elements wearing it down. This process is called tuck pointing.


Brick is one of the most aesthetically pleasing and durable wall materials that a homeowner can invest in. Nothing adds quite as much charm and historical style. Brick can be used either on the exterior of a home or on the interior as an accent wall. When installed properly, brick can outlast the lifespan of the rest of the home. However, this doesn't mean that it won't need maintenance.

Although the bricks themselves are durable, the mortar that joins the bricks together is not. Over time and when exposed to harsh conditions, mortar can begin to deteriorate. This causes a loss of visual appeal at best, and severe structural problems at worst. Tuck pointing is the process of restoring this mortar and giving your brick wall years of future performance.

What Does Tuck Pointing Do?

Tuck pointing is the process of restoring brick mortar when it has begun to deteriorate. This is done by first making the existing mortar even by removing any extra pieces. From there, new mortar is applied much like how caulking is. After a home exterior remodeler has applied new mortar, it's smoothed and rounded out to give a clean appearance. This process helps to refresh the look of a brick wall while also making sure that it's structurally sound and well bonded together.

Signs That It's Time to Invest in Tuck Pointing

For most homeowners, tuck pointing is not a typical day-to-day consideration. However, there are a few specific scenarios where this type of work should be invested in. If you notice any of these signs, you'll want to hire a skilled contractor to perform tuck pointing:

  • Loose and Unbonded Bricks
  • Worn and Weathered Mortar Appearance
  • More Than 1/4" of Mortar Missing
  • Large Gaps of Mortar Between Bricks

Can You Tuck Point in the Winter?

Ideally, tuck pointing should be done during the spring and fall when the weather is more mild. Brick mortar is best applied at between temperatures of 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can be installed as low as 40. This can make a tuck pointing job in the winter challenging, however, it can be done. For a winter job, your contractor will simply need to use an additive that speeds up the mortar curing time and provide extra environmental heat.

Get a Quote for Tuck Pointing from Shanco Today

Shanco is a trusted roofing company in the Gaithersburg, Lorton, and Richmond areas. We carry an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau and have won multiple awards for our exceptional service. We offer a fantastic array of services like roofing, home exteriors, solar, storm damage repair, and commercial remodeling, so no matter what you need we'll be there for you. Contact us today to get your service started with a quote.