// Masonry restoration
The complete process of restoring older masonry joints — the heart of what we do.
What is tuckpointing?
Tuckpointing is only the most common of three terms often used interchangeably in the United States and Canada to describe the complete process of restoring older masonry joints. The other two are repointing and pointing. In some areas, repointing or pointing may mean the same as tuckpointing. But they may also mean only the placing of mortar in joints without first removing damaged mortar. Tuckpointing isn't reserved for older buildings. New masonry walls may need to be tuckpointed when bee holes or voids appear in the finished joint, when the joints have an incorrect tooled finish or when the color of the joints is incorrect.
A common maintenance task for brick masonry is the repair of mortar joints. The longevity of mortar joints will vary with the exposure conditions and the mortar materials used, but a lifespan of more than 25 years is typical. The longevity of brick, however, may well exceed 100 years. Therefore, occasional repair of the mortar joints is expected over the life of a brick masonry.
See the process
This mid-process close-up shows the reality of professional masonry restoration. Proper tuckpointing requires grinding deep into the old, failing joints before any new mortar is applied. This depth is what guarantees a true structural bond, rather than a cheap surface patch that will pop off after one harsh winter.
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Three terms, one process
The most common of the three terms — the complete process of restoring older masonry joints.
In some areas it means the same as tuckpointing, but it may mean only placing mortar in joints without first removing damaged mortar.
Like repointing, it may mean the same as tuckpointing, or only the placing of mortar in joints.
FAQ
A properly executed tuckpointing job lasts 25 to 30 years in Chicago's climate. Lifespan depends on mortar quality, wall exposure, and whether underlying water intrusion is addressed. Star Tuckpointing grinds joints to a consistent depth and uses mortar matched to your brick's original composition.
Grinding and tuckpointing in Chicago typically costs between $9 and $25 per square foot depending on wall height, mortar condition, and access. Full-wall restoration on a typical Chicago bungalow ranges from $3,000 to $12,000. Star Tuckpointing provides free written estimates with exact pricing.
Tuckpointing and repointing both replace deteriorated mortar, but tuckpointing historically refers to a two-color mortar technique that creates the illusion of fine brick joints. In modern Chicago usage the terms are often interchangeable. Star Tuckpointing handles both standard repointing and decorative tuckpointing.
Common signs include crumbling or recessed mortar joints, mortar that crumbles when scraped, water stains on interior walls, and visible gaps between bricks.
What clients say
“I would definitely call them first if I need tuckpointing services again.”
“You can actually trust them.”
Request a free, written estimate. We'll explain the repair scope, materials and schedule.
