Masonry Tuck Pointing Tool Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/719,142, which was filed on Nov. 12, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of masonry tools. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device that stores, controls, and dispenses mortar into vertical brick joints during the tuck pointing process, comprising a body with an interior space, a front opening, and a marking system for mortar application depth control. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Masonry structures require periodic maintenance to ensure their durability and structural integrity. One critical aspect of masonry repair is tuck pointing, which involves removing deteriorated mortar and applying new mortar into the joints between bricks. Traditional tuck pointing methods often rely on trowels or other manual tools that can lead to inefficient application, excess material waste, and inconsistent results. The lack of precision in these conventional techniques can result in overfilled or underfilled joints, reducing the strength and aesthetic appeal of the repair. Additionally, applying mortar in vertical joints presents further challenges, as gravity and inconsistent tool control can cause mortar spillage, making the process time-consuming and labor-intensive. Variations in joint depth across different masonry styles also require adaptability in mortar application tools to ensure compatibility with historic, modern, and traditional brickwork. Furthermore, masonry professionals often work in demanding environments where tool handling, durability, and ease of use are essential for efficiency.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a masonry tuck pointing tool device that enables precise and controlled mortar application into vertical brick joints, minimizing spillage and excess material waste. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a masonry tuck pointing tool device that accommodates various joint widths and depths, allowing for compatibility with different masonry styles and construction techniques. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a masonry tuck pointing tool device that enhances user comfort and efficiency by incorporating ergonomic handling features and durable construction materials suitable for long-term use.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a masonry tuck pointing tool device. The device is designed to store, control, and dispense mortar with precision into vertical brick joints during the tuck pointing process. The device comprises a body having a bottom wall, parallel side walls, and at least one rear wall forming an interior space for mortar storage. A front opening allows for precise mortar application from the interior space. In one embodiment, the marking system on the side wall provides depth measurements, enabling controlled mortar application to ensure a strong bond and prevent overfilling or underfilling. The device further comprises a handle with a textured grip for secure handling and an optional opening for tool attachment. The method of use involves filling the interior space with mortar, aligning the front opening with a joint, using a brick jointer to push the mortar forward and outwards from the interior space, and smoothing the applied mortar for a professional finish.

In this manner, the masonry tuck pointing tool device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and provides a tool that stores, controls, and dispenses mortar during the tuck pointing process. More specifically, the mortar-holding interior space and front opening enables targeted application of mortar directly into a joint, reducing waste and improving accuracy. Furthermore, the marking system allows users to control the mortar depth according to specific joint requirements, ensuring a strong bond between the new mortar and existing brickwork. Additionally, the inclusion of a handle with a textured grip and an optional attachment point enhances usability, comfort, and portability.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a masonry tuck pointing tool device. The masonry tuck pointing tool device is a handheld tool designed to store, control, and dispense mortar into vertical brick joints with precision during tuck pointing. The device enhances accuracy by preventing spillage and ensuring controlled application tailored to the joint depth, improving the quality and durability of masonry repairs.

The device is comprised of a body that includes a bottom wall, a pair of generally parallel side walls perpendicular to the bottom wall, and at least one rear wall connecting them, forming an interior space for holding mortar before application. The distance between the side walls may vary in different embodiments to accommodate joints of various widths, and the height of the side walls may also be adjusted for different joint lengths. These variations ensure adaptability to different masonry styles, including traditional and historic brickwork. A front opening, formed by the walls, enables precise mortar dispensing from the interior space directly into the joint, minimizing waste.

In one embodiment, at least one side wall includes a marking system, which may be located on the side surface or along the top edge. The markings indicate depth measurements within the interior space relative to the front opening, allowing the user to control mortar application based on joint depth. This ensures accurate mortar application, preventing overfilling or underfilling, which could affect durability and aesthetics.

The body is also comprised of at least one handle for handheld use. In one embodiment, the handle features a textured grip area for secure handling, which may include knurled, raised, or recessed textures, or be made from non-slip materials such as rubber or thermoplastic elastomer. A contoured design may be used to reduce user fatigue. The handle may also feature an opening for attaching an eyelet, rope, or carabiner, allowing for easy storage or attachment to a tool belt.

The invention also includes a method of using the device. The device is first provided, including the body, interior space, front opening, marking system, and handle. Mortar is placed inside the interior space, and the front opening is aligned with a vertical brick joint. The user inserts a brick jointer into the interior space, pushing mortar forward through the front opening while using the marking system to control depth. Finally, the mortar is smoothed and compacted using a brick jointer or finishing tool to ensure a professional-quality tuck pointing application.

Accordingly, the masonry tuck pointing tool device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it is a tool that stores, controls, and dispenses mortar during the tuck pointing process. More specifically, the mortar-holding interior space and front opening enables targeted application of mortar directly into a joint, reducing waste and improving accuracy. Furthermore, the marking system allows users to control the mortar depth according to specific joint requirements, ensuring a strong bond between the new mortar and existing brickwork. Additionally, the inclusion of a handle with a textured grip and an optional attachment point enhances usability, comfort, and portability. In this manner, the masonry tuck pointing tool device overcomes the limitations of existing tuck pointing tools and methods known in the art.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a masonry tuck pointing tool device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of one potential embodiment of a masonry tuck pointing tool device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a masonry tuck pointing tool device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a masonry tuck pointing tool device that enables precise and controlled mortar application into vertical brick joints, minimizing spillage and excess material waste. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a masonry tuck pointing tool device that accommodates various joint widths and depths, allowing for compatibility with different masonry styles and construction techniques. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a masonry tuck pointing tool device that enhances user comfort and efficiency by incorporating ergonomic handling features and durable construction materials suitable for long-term use.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a masonry tuck pointing tool device. The masonry tuck pointing tool device is a handheld tool designed to store, control, and dispense mortar into vertical brick joints with precision during tuck pointing. By preventing spillage and ensuring a controlled application tailored to joint depth, the device enhances accuracy and improves the quality and durability of masonry repairs.

The device is comprised of a body that includes a bottom wall, a pair of generally parallel side walls perpendicular to the bottom wall, and at least one rear wall connecting them, forming an interior space for holding mortar before application. The distance between the side walls may vary across embodiments to accommodate joints of different widths, and the height of the side walls may also be adjusted for varying joint lengths. These design variations allow adaptability to different masonry styles, including traditional and historic brickwork. A front opening, formed by the walls, facilitates precise mortar dispensing from the interior space directly into the joint, minimizing waste.

In one embodiment, at least one side wall includes a marking system, which may be located on the side surface or along the top edge. The markings indicate depth measurements within the interior space relative to the front opening, enabling controlled mortar application based on joint depth. This prevents overfilling or underfilling, ensuring proper bonding and maintaining the durability and aesthetics of the repair.

The body is also comprised of at least one handle for handheld operation. In one embodiment, the handle features a textured grip area for secure handling, which may include knurled, raised, or recessed textures or be made from non-slip materials such as rubber or thermoplastic elastomer. A contoured design may be incorporated to reduce user fatigue. Additionally, the handle may include an opening for attaching an eyelet, rope, or carabiner, allowing for convenient storage or attachment to a tool belt.

The device also includes a method for using the device. First, the device is provided, including the body, interior space, front opening, marking system, and handle. Mortar is placed inside the interior space, and the front opening is aligned with a vertical brick joint. The user then inserts a brick jointer into the interior space, pushing mortar forward through the front opening while utilizing the marking system to control depth. Finally, the mortar is smoothed and compacted using a brick jointer or finishing tool to achieve a professional-quality tuck pointing application.

As a result, the masonry tuck pointing tool device provides significant advantages by efficiently storing, controlling, and dispensing mortar during the tuck pointing process. The interior space and front opening allow for targeted mortar application, reducing waste and improving accuracy. Additionally, the marking system ensures proper mortar depth for a strong bond between new mortar and existing brickwork. The inclusion of a handle with a textured grip and an optional attachment point further enhances usability, comfort, and portability. In this manner, the masonry tuck pointing tool device addresses the limitations of existing tuck pointing tools and methods.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a masonry tuck pointing tool device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The masonry tuck pointing tool device 100 is a specialized handheld tool designed to store, control, and dispense mortar into vertical brick joints with precision and efficiency during the tuck pointing process. The device 100 enhances the accuracy and ease of tuck pointing by preventing unnecessary mortar spillage and ensuring that mortar is concentrated in a single, accessible location. Additionally, the device 100 allows for a controlled and specific application of mortar, precisely tailored to the depth of the joint being tuck pointed, thereby improving the quality and durability of masonry repairs.

The device 100 is comprised of a body 102. The body 102 may be made from a metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel, or a high-quality plastic, which provides a lightweight and cost-effective alternative without compromising strength and functionality. The body 102 is preferably resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-term durability even when exposed to moisture and cement-based materials. The body 102 is comprised of a bottom wall 104, a pair of generally parallel side walls 106 that are perpendicular to a horizontal axis of the bottom wall 104, and at least one rear wall 108 that attaches the side walls 106 and bottom wall 104 together at one end that collectively form an interior space 110 for holding mortar before application.

The distance between the side walls 106 may vary in different embodiments, allowing the device 100 to be used with vertical joints of various widths. The side walls 106 may also vary in height in different embodiments to accommodate vertical joints of various lengths. These variations ensure adaptability to different masonry styles, including traditional, modern, and historic brickwork, where joint dimensions can differ significantly based on construction techniques and materials used.

The front opening 112, formed by the walls 104, 106, 108, enables precise dispensing of mortar from the interior space 110 directly into the joint, reducing waste and keeping the work area cleaner. The shape and dimensions of the front opening 112 may vary across different embodiments to accommodate different mortar application techniques and joint profiles.

At least one side wall 106 is comprised of at least one marking system 114, as seen in FIG. 2. In different embodiments, the marking system 114 may be located on a side surface 116 or along a top edge 118 of the side wall 106. Each marking 115 of the marking system 114 indicates a depth measurement within the interior space 110 relative to the front opening 112, allowing the user to insert a brick jointer at specific depths within the interior space 110. This ensures the mortar is pushed forward out of the front opening 112 and applied to the joint according to the required joint depth. The markings 115 may be etched, embossed, painted, or printed onto the side wall 106 for visibility and durability. In some embodiments, the markings 115 may include numerical depth indicators to provide clear reference points for users. The markings 115 may be spaced in increments of inches, millimeters, centimeters, or any other unit of measurement, allowing the user to select the most appropriate scale. The ability to control the amount of the mortar being dispensed from the interior space 110 relative to the depth of the joint that mortar is being applied to ensures a strong bond between the new mortar and the existing brickwork while preventing overfilling or underfilling, which could compromise the durability and aesthetic quality of the repair.

The body 102 is also comprised of at least one handle 120 (as seen in FIG. 1), allowing the device 100 to be handheld. In one embodiment, the handle 120 is comprised of a textured grip area 122, ensuring a secure hold even when working with wet materials or while wearing gloves. The grip area 122 may have a knurled, raised, recessed, or patterned texture, improving handling and reducing slippage during operation. Additionally, the grip area 122 may be made of a textured non-slip grip material such as rubber, silicone, or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) to provide added comfort and control. The handle 120 may also be a contoured handle in one embodiment to fit the natural shape of a user's hand, reducing fatigue during extended use.

The handle 120 may also feature an opening 124 to accommodate an eyelet, rope, or carabiner, allowing the tool to be easily attached to a tool belt or bag for convenience on the job site. In certain embodiments, the opening 124 may be a metal or plastic reinforced opening to prevent wear over time. The positioning of the opening 124 may vary based on the design of the handle 120 to ensure optimal balance when the device 100 is hung or stored.

The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, a device 100 is provided, comprised of a body 102 that includes a bottom wall 104, a pair of generally parallel side walls 106, at least one rear wall 108, an interior space 110, a front opening 112, at least one marking system 114, and at least one handle 120 [Step 202]. Then, mortar is placed inside the interior space 110 of the body 102 [Step 204]. Next, the user aligns the front opening 112 of the device 100 with a vertical brick joint, ensuring that the bottom wall 104 and side walls 106 guide the mortar precisely into the joint [Step 206]. The user then inserts a brick jointer into the interior space 110, pushing the mortar forward through the front opening 112 and into the joint, while using the marking system 114 to control the amount of mortar applied relative to a depth of the joint [Step 208]. Finally, the user smooths and compacts the mortar within the joint using the brick jointer or another finishing tool to ensure a clean, professional-quality tuck pointing application [Step 210].

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “masonry tuck pointing tool device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the masonry tuck pointing tool device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the masonry tuck pointing tool device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the masonry tuck pointing tool device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the masonry tuck pointing tool device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the masonry tuck pointing tool device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the masonry tuck pointing tool device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.