How much does tuckpointing cost in St. Louis?

Tuckpointing cost in St. Louis depends on the extent of mortar damage, wall accessibility, and whether any brick replacement is needed. Anchor Masonry offers free on-site estimates — call (314) 775-4557 for an honest, no-pressure quote.

How do I know if my brick needs tuckpointing or repair?

Run a flathead screwdriver across your mortar joints — if mortar scrapes out easily or crumbles, it's failing and needs tuckpointing. Other signs include visible gaps between bricks, white mineral staining (efflorescence), water getting inside walls after rain, or mortar that's recessed more than 1/4 inch from the brick face.

Does Anchor Masonry serve my neighborhood in St. Louis?

Yes — Anchor Masonry serves all of St. Louis City and County, including The Hill, Soulard, Tower Grove, Lafayette Square, Dogtown, Shaw, South City, Clayton, Maplewood, Webster Groves, and Kirkwood. Call (314) 775-4557 or submit a free estimate request and we'll confirm your area and schedule a visit.

What is the difference between tuckpointing and repointing?

Repointing means replacing old mortar with new mortar; tuckpointing specifically uses two contrasting colors — a base mortar flush with the brick and a thin contrasting line — for a clean, finished look. In everyday use, most St. Louis contractors use the terms interchangeably. Anchor Masonry matches the original joint style and mortar color on all jobs.

Are you licensed and insured for masonry work in Missouri?

Yes — Anchor Masonry is fully licensed and insured in Missouri and holds a BBB A+ accreditation. Owner Adam Scott is on every job. We carry full liability insurance and workers' compensation. You can verify our BBB profile at bbb.org.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes — all estimates from Anchor Masonry are free, with no pressure and no obligation. We'll assess your masonry in person, explain exactly what's needed, and give you a straight price. Call (314) 775-4557 or use the form on this page.

What is Anchor Masonry?

Professional masonry and tuckpointing services serving the St. Louis area since 1987, specializing in historic restoration, chimney repair, and custom stonework.

What is historic masonry restoration?

It's the careful repair and repointing of old brick and stone using historically-appropriate materials — usually lime-based mortar — to restore strength without damaging the original character or the soft historic brick.

How much does masonry restoration cost in St. Louis?

Historic masonry restoration cost depends on the age of the building, mortar type, and amount of brick replacement. Full facade restoration is quoted per project.

Why can't you use modern mortar on old St. Louis brick?

Modern Portland cement mortar is harder than soft historic clay brick. It traps moisture and forces freeze-thaw stress into the brick, causing it to spall and crack. Old St. Louis homes need softer lime-based mortar.

Do historic St. Louis homes need special permits for masonry work?

Properties in local or national historic districts (like Soulard, Lafayette Square, The Hill) may need city permits and Historic Preservation Commission review for significant exterior changes. We coordinate permitting when required.

How long does masonry restoration last?

Properly done historic restoration with lime mortar lasts 25–30+ years. Cheap or incorrect mortar mixes can fail in 5–10 years and damage the original brick in the process.

Masonry Restoration in St. Louis

Historic masonry restoration for St. Louis homes and buildings. We preserve character while ensuring structural integrity.

Key Facts at a Glance

Free Estimate: Always
Mortar Type: Lime-based
Best For: Pre-1940s homes
Lifespan: 25–30+ years

Historic masonry restoration requires a delicate touch. We work with old brick, stone, and mortar to bring buildings back to their original strength without losing the character that makes them special.

The goal is always the same: bring back the strength and the character without making the repair look like a patch. If you own an older home or building that's showing its age, we'll tell you honestly what it needs.

[PHOTO: Historic brick facade restoration — before and after]
Insert Adam's job photo here

Adam's Pro Tip

On older St. Louis homes, look for mortar that's recessed well back from the brick face, soft and sandy, or a different color than the original. Patched spots with hard modern mortar trapped against soft historic brick accelerate spalling — the repair itself can damage the wall. Matching the original lime-based mortar matters.

Related Services

Tuckpointing Brick Repair Chimney Repair

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Get Your Free Estimate (314) 775-4557

Request Your Free Estimate

Tell us about your restoration project and we'll come take a look — no charge, no pressure.