After The Storm: Rebuilding St. Louis Brick-By-Brick.
It’s been a little over a month since an EF 3 tornado (winds between 136-165 mph), ripped through St. Louis, specifically in University City, Clayton, and historical homes in the CWE near Forest Park. The tornado caused an estimated $1.6 billion in damage, knocking out power to more than 100,000 residents and damaging or destroying 5,000 buildings, including homes, businesses, and churches. Even sturdy brick structures, which have survived 100 years of storms, were damaged or destroyed.
Massey Tuckpointing & Masonry: A St. Louis Company
Massey Tuckpointing & Masonry, a St. Louis-based, family-owned company, has been saddened to see the damage but also heartened by the outpouring of help from ordinary people who have risen to the challenge to help their neighbors recover, dig out, and rebuild.
We have been seeing a significant amount of damage and insurance claims, including flattened and collapsed brick structures, compromised mortar joints (tuckpointing), joint failure, and spalling. In some cases, brick chimneys, chimney caps, and chimney flue liners were also damaged or compromised due to the high winds and rain.
And, as with every natural disaster and its aftermath, there has been some looting, and another problem that’s somewhat unique to St. Louis–brick theft.
St. Louis Red Brick: Sought-After
St. Louis bricks are highly sought after due to their deep, rich red colors, textures, and exceptional durability. Home and property owners should monitor and prevent brick theft and call the police if they suspect anyone is stealing their bricks. It’s also essential to use best efforts to salvage and recover bricks from the building debris. St. Louis City and St. Louis County officials are encouraging residents to sort out the bricks and reuse them to maintain the authentic, historical look of St. Louis’ most historically rich areas.
We’ve Got You Covered
Massey Tuckpointing & Masonry offers free bids on everything from a complete wall or chimney rebuild to spot tuckpointing or repointing of worn or damaged mortar and joints. It’s been a wet summer so far, but we’re finally looking forward to some dry weather and the opportunity to rebuild.
St. Louis is a resilient, vibrant, and proud city. We are here to help you rebuild St. Louis brick by brick. Call Spring today and let’s get it done. (314)