What is Tuckpointing
and Why do Chicago Buildings Need it?
Tuckpointing replaces damaged mortar between bricks to prevent water penetration and structural damage. Chicago's freeze-thaw cycles cause mortar to crack and erode faster than most climates. Buildings need tuckpointing when:
- Mortar crumbles when you touch it
- Gaps appear between bricks
- White powder (efflorescence) forms on walls