Bob’s Chimney
High-Quality Chimney Repointing and Tuckpointing in Boston
Crumbling mortar is not just cosmetic but a symptom of damage to your chimney. If you spot small cracks on the masonry or water leaks, call us to resolve these problems through repointing services.
Chimney Repointing, Tuckpointing and Masonry Services in Boston, MA
One of the most important elements of a chimney’s structural integrity is how durable and well-maintained the masonry is. Damaged masonry means that excessive moisture has seeped into the bricks, causing spalling and general deterioration of the chimney system. This often leads to energy leaks and a decrease in your heating system’s efficiency levels.
If you’re seeing any early signs of damaged chimney masonry, like white stains on the bricks, rust and backdrafting, Bob’s Chimney is here to reverse the damage and ensure your chimney is well-built to keep you warm in the winter. Our professionals have access to time-tested techniques and reliable tools to repair chimneys and make sure they are protected against future issues.
Prevent further damage to the cracking masonry by scheduling chimney repointing in Boston. Call us to book your slot today!
Difference Between Chimney Repointing & Chimney Tuckpointing Services
Chimney repointing and tuckpointing are often used interchangeably, though the purpose of each service is different. Repointing means that a chimney expert would remove the existing mortar and add a new one in its place. Repointing seals the gaps and restores the structural strength of the chimney.
Tuckpointing is similar in the sense that it also addresses damaged areas, but it’s often intended for aesthetically uplifting the chimney. Tuckpointing involves two different mortar colors – one matches the color of the existing mortar, while the other is in a contrasting color to provide visual interest in the joint line.
Looking for “Chimney repointing near me?” Call us to schedule our services fast!
Our Process for Chimney Repointing and Tuckpointing in Boston, MA
STEP 01
Inspecting Existing Mortar
The repointing process begins with inspecting the chimney bricks, the exterior masonry, and whether the overall structure is consistent.
STEP 02
Site Preparation
Safety is ensured throughout our chimney repointing and tuckpointing process. We set up scaffolding so that our professionals can work without any risks.
STEP 03
Old Mortar Removal
We remove the old mortar to a depth of one inch by using tools like chisels and hammers. This helps us make room for the new mortar to be cured properly.
STEP 04
Cleaning Mortar Joints
We use chimney brushes and spray bottles to clean the mortar joints. This allows us to remove any dirt, debris, or obstructions before applying the new mortar.
STEP 05
Mortar Mixing and Matching
Depending on your chimney type, we mix new mortar that goes with your masonry and local climate. Most of the time, it’s a lime based mix or lime putty.
STEP 06
Applying New Mortar
We use pointing tools to apply the new mortar. In case of tuckpointing, we include a contrasting brick as well. At the end, we finish the joints for visual consistency.
We repoint brick chimneys professionally, focusing on clean joints and durable joinery. Call us to book your slot for chimney repointing and tuckpointing in Boston!
Signs of Moisture Damage that Require Chimney Tuckpointing Repair
01
White stains forming on the chimney walls because of salt deposits – a sign of efflorescence.
02
Bricks loosening from the chimney because of weakened joinery or falling off entirely.
03
Musty, rotten or nauseating smells coming from the fireplace, especially after rain.
04
Rust or corrosion on the firebox, damper, and chimney cap because of weather exposure.
05
Water stains forming on the firebox, chimney walls, or nearby interior walls or ceilings.
06
Fires not starting easily, or smoke redirecting to your property instead of exiting.
Need to Tuck and Point Your Masonry Chimney on a Budget? We’ve got you covered! Schedule your chimney repointing or tuckpointing in Boston today.
Chimney Repointing vs. Chimney Rebuilding | What to Go For?
When it comes to minor repairs like fixing localized spalling or moisture problems in the masonry, repointing is the service to go for. Repointing and tuckpointing removes problematic bricks to replace them with fresh pieces. A complete rebuild, on the other hand, is important when the chimney is severely damaged. This may be the case if the chimney is abnormally tilting to an angle, or you see missing bricks throughout the chimney. Whether you need a partial rebuild or a complete chimney restoration, we’re here to do it!
Should You DIY Chimney Repointing Projects?
Many homeowners ask us if they can do DIY chimney repointing as a means to save money.
While it is possible, it can be risky to attempt repointing on your own if you lack professional experience in working on chimneys. Repointing means you’ll have to climb the roof, remove the old bricks without damaging the rest of the masonry, and maintain the correct ratio of the mortar mix.
This can be a complex task for a layman, and a safety risk. We highly recommend reaching out to a professional like Bob’s Chimney to perform repointing safely and accurately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does chimney repointing and tuckpointing last in Boston?
When done professionally and maintained properly, you can expect a chimney repointing or tuckpointing job to last for 20-30 years.
How much does it cost for chimney tuck point repair?
The cost of chimney repointing and tuckpointing in Boston depends on several factors, including your chimney’s height, accessibility, and the extent of damage. If the structure is severely deteriorated and requires a full rebuild, the price can increase significantly.
What's the best time of the year to repoint a chimney?
We recommend scheduling chimney repointing services from early summer to fall. Generally, it’s best to avoid repointing chimneys in winter or the peak of summer, because extreme temperatures in these seasons can interfere with the curing process of the repair materials.