A survey of
craftsmen in any field will disclose that while individual preference for tools
can vary widely, generalizations can be accurately made about the most often
used implements to perform a specific task. In this article we will review the
tools employed in the United States only. The meanings of tuckpointing in other
parts of the world, especially in Europe, have totally different connotations
and the tools used there will not be alluded to in this review
A hammer and chisel are normally used to remove old mortar. Alternatively, a grinder with a diamond blade can be used. A water
hose or a high-pressure washer are
used to extricate difficult to remove materials.
Concrete and masonry strippers are used to remove pre-existing
sealers by scrubbing the surface with brushes.
After the solution dries, an air
blower or a vacuum cleaner can
be used to remove fine dust particles.
Sponges or brushes may be used to dampen areas where old mortar was removed.
New mortar can be applied with a point
trowel. Once the new mortar begins to set up, it should be smoothed down
with a jointer tool or the rounded
end of a wooden dowel.
Paint brushes can be used to apply concrete and masonry stain to the
bricks to remove imperfections. Great care must be observed so that the stain
does not leech out into the new mortar, especially if the mortar has had dyes
added to it to match the pre-existing mixture.
Once the new
stain and mortar have dried a concrete
and masonry sealer can be applied to protect from moisture and sun fading.
To review a fine article on porch repair using tuckpointing, see: http://www.caseythebolt.us/2013/01/casey-thebolt-on-porch-repair.html
No comments:
Post a Comment