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The difference between a 3/8 and 1/2 inch mortar joint on a chimney rebuild
I just redid a chimney in Akron last week and tried a 1/2 inch joint like the old timers used. The 3/8 inch joint I normally use with modern bricks just looked wrong and didn't seal as tight against the old flue tiles. The thicker joint let me pack more mortar around the tiles for a better seal, and it matched the original look of the house. Has anyone else had to switch up joint size for a repair to match old work?
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mason.cole7mo ago
Always stuck with 3/8 for everything. Your post made me try a half inch on a repair last month and you're right, it just works better for the old stuff.
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jamierodriguez7mo ago
Ever notice how we get stuck using the same tool for every job? We pick one size or method that worked before and just keep using it, even when it's not the best fit. Your story about switching to half inch makes me wonder how many other small changes we're missing out on. It's like using the same key for every lock just because it's the one in your hand.
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murray.cole6mo ago
Totally feel that, and @mason.cole proves even us stubborn folks can learn new tricks.
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