Graciano Corporation has been repointing and tuckpointing New York City buildings for generations. Mortar joint failure is one of the most common and consequential maintenance issues in the city's dense stock of brick and stone structures. When joints deteriorate, water finds its way in -- and the cost of repair grows with every freeze-thaw cycle.
Tuckpointing and Local Law 11 / FISP Compliance
New York City's Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), commonly known as Local Law 11, requires owners of buildings taller than six stories to have their facades professionally inspected on a five-year cycle. Failed or deteriorated mortar joints are one of the most frequently cited conditions in FISP reports. Our team is experienced in executing the tuckpointing work that remedies these findings and brings facades into compliance.
When Tuckpointing Is Needed
- Mortar joints are cracking, crumbling, or receding behind the masonry face
- Water is penetrating through the exterior wall
- Efflorescence or staining is appearing on the facade
- A FISP report cites failed mortar joints or unsafe conditions
- Brick or stone units are shifting or showing signs of movement
- The building is approaching its next FISP cycle and needs preventive work
NYC-Specific Considerations
New York's pre-war building stock -- particularly the brick and terra cotta construction common to Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx -- presents material compatibility challenges that require genuine expertise. Many of these buildings were built with soft lime mortars. Using a modern Portland-cement-based mortar in these joints causes damage rather than repair. Our craftsmen assess existing mortar composition and match replacement materials accordingly, protecting the surrounding masonry units.
Our Approach
What Sets Our Tuckpointing Apart
- Mortar analysis and material compatibility matching
- Careful removal of failed mortar to correct depth
- Proper tooling and joint profile to match existing work
- Coordination with building management and FISP requirements
- Clean, thorough site protection and post-work cleanup
- Appropriate staging and access solutions for urban high-rise work
Why Choose Graciano for New York Tuckpointing
- Over 100 years of hands-on masonry experience
- Trusted with landmark NYC projects including Rockefeller Center and the New York Public Library
- Experienced in FISP compliance work and report-driven repairs
- Woman-owned, WBENC-certified business
- Full-service restoration capabilities -- tuckpointing through complete facade restoration
- Offices in Pittsburgh PA, New York NY, and Florida