Do you notice cracks in your mortar, shifting bricks, or white chalky stains on your walls? These are clear signs that your brick work may be aging or starting to fail. While bricks themselves are tough, the mortar that holds them together can wear down over time from rain, snow, and natural settling.
Tuckpointing replaces worn mortar, restores the appearance of your brick work, and helps protect your home from water or structural problems. With careful workmanship, your brick exterior can remain solid and attractive for many years to come.
At Rea & Son Cement, we specialize in tuckpointing brick work for homes across Metro Detroit. Our team repairs and restores mortar so your home keeps its classic look while remaining strong. Contact us today!
How Can You Tell If Your Brick Work Needs Attention?
1. Cracks or Gaps in Mortar
The most obvious sign that tuckpointing is needed is visible cracking or missing mortar between bricks. Even small gaps can let water slip in, weakening the structure and leading to further damage inside and outside the home.
Repairing deteriorated mortar with professional tuckpointing strengthens your brick work and prevents minor issues from becoming major repairs. Addressing cracks early keeps your home’s exterior safe, stable, and well cared for.
2. Loose or Shifting Bricks
Bricks that feel loose or appear to move may indicate the mortar holding them is breaking down. Changes in weather, temperature shifts, and moisture can gradually erode mortar, leaving bricks unstable.
Tuckpointing fills in these gaps and holds the bricks firmly in place. Loose bricks can create hazards and accelerate wear, so fixing them protects your home and maintains the neat appearance of your brick work.
3. Water Damage or White Residue
White powdery stains on bricks, known as efflorescence, show that water is traveling through your brick work. Moisture in old mortar can eventually cause mold, rot, or interior wall damage if left unaddressed.
Tuckpointing replaces worn mortar and restores a tighter fit between bricks. Keeping mortar joints solid reduces water penetration, protecting your walls and preserving the appearance of your brick work. Regular inspections can spot early signs of water damage before they grow.
How Can You Maintain Your Brick Work Between Repairs?
Even after tuckpointing, your brick exterior benefits from basic care. Look for cracks, loose bricks, or stains and fix small issues before they worsen. Keeping gutters clear and directing water away from the foundation also helps preserve mortar and brick surfaces.
Maintaining your brick work not only protects the home but also keeps it looking well cared for. Knowing the signs that tuckpointing is needed helps you act before small problems turn into major repairs.
Rea & Son Cement: Experienced Brick Work Specialists
By taking care of your brick work, you can protect your home, maintain curb appeal, and prevent larger repair costs down the line.
At Rea & Son Cement, our team has years of experience repairing mortar, keeping homes strong and attractive. We also offer a wide variety of cement services for homes and businesses.
Ready to restore your brick work? Call (734) 425-7966 or contact us online to schedule an inspection today.