What is chimney repointing?
Repointing is the process of removing failed mortar from between bricks (down to a depth of 3/4" minimum) and replacing it with fresh mortar. Tuckpointing is a subset — selective repointing of only the worst joints rather than the entire chimney.
How do I know if my chimney needs repointing?
Mortar that crumbles out when you scratch it with a key. Visible gaps between bricks. White efflorescence staining on the brick faces. Pieces of mortar on the roof or ground. Plants growing in the joints. Any of these warrant a free inspection.
What's the difference between repointing and tuckpointing?
Tuckpointing repairs only the worst sections — usually 20–40% of joints — while leaving sound mortar alone. Full repointing redoes every joint on the chimney. We recommend tuckpointing if less than 30% of joints are failing, full repointing above that.
Why is color-matched mortar important?
Standard gray mortar against historic chimneys looks like a paint patch — completely obvious from the ground. We custom-tint mortar to match your existing color (sand, lime, pigment) and replicate the original joint profile so repairs blend invisibly.
How long does chimney repointing take?
Tuckpointing: 1–2 days for an average chimney. Full repointing: 2–4 days. Brick replacement: 1–3 days depending on quantity. Always quoted with written timeline before starting.
What does repointing cost?
Tuckpointing: $1,200–$3,500 depending on extent. Full repointing: $2,500–$6,500 depending on chimney size and access. Brick replacement: $200–$500 per brick installed. Free quote within 24 hours.
How long does repointing last?
Properly executed repointing with ASTM-C270 mortar lasts 25–50 years before any maintenance is needed. We back our work with a lifetime workmanship guarantee — if mortar fails or pulls out within reasonable use, we redo it.
Can repointing be done in winter?
Cold-weather repointing is technically possible but not ideal — temperatures below 40°F during cure compromise mortar bond strength. We schedule repointing for spring through fall when possible. Emergency repairs (water entry, structural concerns) we do year-round with cold-weather methods.
