Chimney Repointing & Tuckpointing

Repointing (often called tuckpointing) is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from the joints and packing in fresh mortar. It's one of the most valuable maintenance services a masonry chimney can receive: done at the right time, it stops water intrusion and can add decades to the structure's life without the cost of rebuilding.

Frank & Sons repoints chimneys throughout Greater Pittsburgh, matching mortar to the original and working to a sound depth so the repair holds. It's precise work — and getting the depth, mix, and finish right is what separates a lasting repoint from a cosmetic smear.

When to repoint

• Mortar joints are recessed, cracked, or crumbling.
• You can pick or scrape mortar out easily.
• Gaps have opened between bricks.
• Efflorescence or damp patches signal water intrusion.
• The chimney is decades old and never repointed.

How proper repointing works

We rake or grind out the deteriorated mortar to a sound depth — too shallow and the repair won't hold, too aggressive and it risks the brick. Then we pack in fresh mortar matched to the original in color and composition, and tool the joints to shed water and match the existing profile.

Matching the mortar is critical. Modern high-cement mortars are often too hard for older brick, trapping moisture and causing the brick to spall. On older Pittsburgh masonry especially, using a compatible mix protects the brick rather than destroying it.