Masonry paints can help you achieve the right look for your project.
We discussed last week how you can change the look of your structure’s exterior through masonry staining. But what if you want a more custom color or design?Masonry paints can help you achieve the look you want. Still, not all masonry materials are the same and finding the right paint for the job can be tricky. Here’s a few things to keep in mind so that you can make the right choices for your next masonry project. (more…)
Cracks in your masonry are a sign that you need repair or replacement.
If you notice cracks or chips in your bricks or concrete blocks, then it may be time to have them repaired or replaced. Dilapidated masonry can negatively affect the professional presentation of a business, which may even affect your success with sales and client retention. If left untreated, defects in masonry could worsen and even become safety hazards. It’s important to know when you need masonry demolition and to act quickly before the damage worsens. (more…)
Concrete masonry is an environmentally-conscious choice.
Sustainable solutions are very important in construction projects, and more and more companies are just realizing the benefits of concrete masonry.
From helping businesses with energy efficiency to using minimal equipment, concrete masonry is a great way to be environmentally conscious during your next project. Let’s take a look at specific examples of how concrete masonry is kind to the environment. (more…)
Cracked concrete? It might be time for concrete restoration.
Masonry restoration projects can require large amounts of time and energy depending on the size, scope, and, intricacy and materials involved in the undertaking. This is when concrete masonry can be highly effective as a low cost and energy-saving method to fulfill all of your restoration needs. Concrete restoration comes with a number of environmental benefits as well, which you can expect and enjoy for your next building project. (more…)
The right kind of salt goes a long way in preserving your masonry.
Sometimes a shovel does the trick to remove snow from your steps and sidewalks without damaging your masonry. But if this winter is going to be anything like last year’s, then you will probably need to use salt. De-icing products offer welcome assistance in the task of removing thick sheets of ice from walking surfaces. But these helpful de-icing products come with a catch: if you use too much of it, you risk damaging your masonry. If you repeatedly use heavy amounts of sidewalk salt, you risk the scaling and flaking of your masonry surfaces, a process which is called “salt fretting”. Salt fretting usually occurs at the base of buildings, where the building meets the sidewalks. It causes your buildings to look old and unappealing, damaging your property value. To avoid salt fretting, make sure to follow these rules.
While there are many other materials that we use at Del Prete Masonry, we’re not about to abandon concrete anytime soon. It has proven its worth many times over and we know that we can bring you a solid masonry structure with it. To find out more about your masonry options including concrete masonry, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
Proper preparation is key to a successful concrete masonry demolition.
There are a few key elements to keep in mind when properly demolishing your concrete masonry.
Demolition projects should not be taken lightly. Not only do you need the proper tools to take on a concrete demolition project, but you also need to implement proper safety techniques when moving and lifting the concrete. There are a few key elements to keep in mind when properly demolishing your concrete masonry. (more…)
When you think about concrete, you usually don’t think about maintenance. Concrete is durable and long-lasting, and most people don’t think it really needs much upkeep. The fact is, properly maintained concrete lasts longer and looks better. Maintaining concrete, especially decorative concrete, can extend its life and beauty and keep it looking clean and bright, rather than faded, dirty, and stained. Why wouldn’t you want to keep your investment protected? Let’s learn how to properly maintain our decorative concrete structures!
Maintaining concrete, especially decorative concrete, can extend its life and beauty and keep it looking clean and bright, rather than faded, dirty, and stained. Why wouldn’t you want to keep your investment protected?
Concrete is pretty low-maintenance, but you should clean it at least once a year to remove dirt and grime build-up as well as rust and other types of stains. (more…)
Concrete is an impressive material
We’ve talked about marble and brick, but what about concrete? Concrete may not be the prettiest girl at the ball, but she’s sturdy and cost efficient. So, let’s get the rundown on what makes concrete an awesome masonry material for your next project. Ready? Here we go! (more…)