Despite the master craftsman who might have constructed your chimney skillfully and according to code, there are various reasons it may need to be repaired. Masonry may be built to withstand time and abuse, but it lasts only with routine maintenance and vigilant repairs. New Buck Chimney Services specializes in brickwork and masonry repair–specifically tuckpointing, or repointing. Masonry problems that we see on a regular basis that require tuckpointing include:
- Water Damage – Throughout burn season, water can penetrate your chimney, and cause substantial damage through a freeze/thaw cycle that breaks apart the masonry. The water can affect your chimney year-round once it has access, causing dripping, mold, stains, and mildewy odors.
- Acid Damage – Minerals in rain or snow can affect your chimney. Your masonry is susceptible to unexpected deterioration unless an acid-resistant, non-water-soluble refractory mortar is applied to the joints.
- Settling, Shifting, Age – Over time your chimney is affected by time, gravity, and natural occurrences, like high winds, seismic activity, and more.
When to Call a Professional
If you have noticed signs of water damage, including a stained chimney exterior, or cracked, shifting, or settling masonry, you should call a professional right away. Only a certified chimney sweep can correctly diagnose your problem and repair it properly–all before the fall!
Tuckpointing
Tuckpointing, also called pointing or repointing, is a meticulous process of removing mortar and bricks from spalling masonry, and repairing it. Spalling masonry means that the bricks and mortar are cracking, and falling, leaving holes in the chimney. You should choose a chimney sweep that is experienced in tuckpointing because completing the job incorrectly can actually weaken the chimney! When you choose New Buck for the job, you get the chimney experts, and they’ll do the job right the first time.
First, a New Buck technician will carefully select the weakened mortar and bricks to remove. Then, he will mix new mortar that is consistent with the old in strength, color, and texture. Replacing the bricks and mortar is the last step, and when done correctly, results in a beautiful chimney.
When New Buck Chimney Services completes your tuckpointing job, you are guaranteed a clean, smooth, and long-lasting mortar surface. We also offer recommendations for waterproofing, to best preserve your new masonry job, as well as stain removal that will complete your chimney’s new look.
Preventative Maintenance
The best way to avoid damages that lead to costly masonry repairs is to schedule routine maintenance. Both the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommend annual chimney inspections and routine chimney sweeps in order to maintain the highest level of safety and efficiency. New Buck Chimney Services offers these services because we put the safety of our customers first. Our chimney sweeps and inspections are not our biggest money-maker, but they’re what keep our customers safe. By scheduling an inspection and allowing a chimney expert access to your chimney system, you may avoid a tuckpointing job, a water leak that can cause masonry damage or a mold problem that affects your respiratory health.
If you haven’t had your chimney cleaned or inspected during the last calendar year, it is time to call a professional. You can schedule with a New Buck chimney sweep now by calling today. Ask about our expert tuckpointing services while you’re at it.