Masonry is a method of building that utilizes stone. It has been around for thousands of years. Masonry has been used to craft most of the most well known structures in the world, from the pyramids in Egypt, to the Great Wall of China, to the White House in Washington DC. If you have a project that requires masonry skills, you will likely need to hire a professional. Before you do, however, it’s good to bone up on the basics of the trade, including the most common masonry materials.
Brick
Brick is the major player in masonry materials. When most people think of masonry they think of brick. Brick has many benefits, which is likely why it had been used as a building material for over 5000 years. Brick is resistant to moisture and fire damage. It is naturally energy efficient and offers superior durability against wind. Brick can also be used to construct a veneer as easily as it can be used to construct an actual structure. The major drawbacks to brick include the time and expense it takes to install and make repairs if they’re ever needed. The heavy weight of the material is another downside, since it can place extensive stress on the foundation.
Concrete
Concrete can be a very useful masonry material. It can be formed into blocks, and since these blocks are often very large, as compared to brick, walls and other structures can be built with them very quickly. Those concrete blocks can also be filled with concrete that is poured in once they’re placed, increasing the insulation factor for the structure. This could have the possible positive effect of reducing utility costs in the long run.
Stucco
Stucco is a masonry material that offers great design options and customization. It is highly durable, though moisture accumulation over time can be a concern. The installation process can also be messy, which is a drawback for some people.
Stone
Stone is another popular choice with many of the same qualities as brick. Stone is fireproof, and bug-proof. Stone is also moisture free so there is no concern of mold and mildew growth within the masonry. Stone is also beautiful, though since it is natural material there is often variation in color and pattern. Finally, stonemasonry is extremely durable – well-built stone structures can stand for centuries.
Contact Del Prete Masonry For Your Next Masonry Project!
If you are ready to upgrade your home or commercial building with professional masonry installation or replacement, Del Prete Masonry has the experience and expertise to get the job done right for the right price. To explore our residential and commercial services and set up a consultation, please give us a call at 410-683-0650 or contact us online. We currently serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and get more updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.