Repointing and tuckpointing both restore the mortar joints between chimney bricks. When joints crumble, water enters the masonry, and New York freeze and thaw cycles quickly turn minor gaps into loose or leaning brick.
Repointing vs Tuckpointing
Repointing removes damaged mortar and replaces it with fresh mortar matched to the original. Tuckpointing is a finishing technique that uses two mortar colors to create the look of fine joints on historic brick. Most chimney work is straightforward repointing.
Signs Your Chimney Needs It
- Mortar that crumbles, sands out or falls to the ground
- Joints recessed more than a quarter inch
- Visible gaps between bricks
- Loose or shifting bricks at the top
- White staining or moss on the masonry
The Process
- Grind out loose mortar to a depth of about three-quarters of an inch
- Clean the joints and dampen the brick
- Pack new mortar matched for strength and color
- Tool the joints to shed water
- Cure and optionally seal with a breathable treatment
Why Mortar Type Matters
Old brick needs softer mortar. Using hard modern cement mortar on historic masonry causes the brick itself to crack. A mason experienced with Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island housing stock will match mortar to the brick.
Schedule repointing in spring or early fall, when temperatures stay above 40 degrees and mortar cures properly.
Choosing the Right Mortar
Mortar should be softer than the brick it holds. Historic New York brick was laid with lime based mortar, and a modern portland cement mix is too hard and can cause the brick to crack in freeze cycles. A mason will test the existing mortar and match its composition and color.
How Long Repointing Lasts
Properly done repointing lasts 25 years or more, though exposed chimney tops may need touch-ups sooner. Because chimneys are exposed on all sides to wind and rain, they often deteriorate faster than the rest of the house.
Related Repairs
- Crown repair to prevent new water entry
- Waterproofing with a vapor permeable sealer
- Replacing spalled bricks
- Rebuilding the top section above the roofline
Frequently Asked Questions
Is repointing the same as tuckpointing
They are related. Repointing replaces mortar, and tuckpointing adds a decorative finishing line.
Can I repoint myself
It is a skilled trade, and incorrect mortar can damage historic brick.
When should I schedule it
Spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
Local Help and Related Reading
Our crews handle chimney repair in Brooklyn, chimney repair in Queens, the Bronx, Huntington and Yonkers. See every town on our service areas page or visit our services.
More to read: What a Chimney Cap Does and When to Replace It, Chimney Fire Warning Signs Every New York Homeowner Should Know, Creosote Buildup in New York Chimneys: Stages, Risks and Removal.
For wider guidance, see the EPA Burn Wise program and the U.S. Department of Energy. New Yorkers can also check NYSERDA for state energy resources.
