All about masonry.
Masonry is the units of material that makeup a concrete building. It can refer to a number of materials such as marble, stone, concrete, granite, limestone, and more. As even the strongest and most durable of materials does not last forever, it is a given that over time your building will begin to deteriorate and will require masonry repair. Masonry repair includes the upkeep, replacement, and looking after of any of the materials which make a building. (more…)
Mortar must remain above 40 degrees to be workable.
Chances are, you haven’t been able to go outside without a coat or scarf on for at least a couple weeks now, you had to finally locate your ice scraper in the backseat, and you have been turning on the heat in your home during the chilly winter nights. The change in weather doesn’t just mean a change in your daily routine, it can require a change in your masonry. Here are some tips for cold weather masonry during these cold winter months. (more…)
Did you know that up to 90% of the materials recovered in a demolition are recycled, salvaged, or reused?
Demolition involves a series of complex tasks such as structural dismantlement, site clearance, environmental remediation, salvage, recycling, industrial recovery and more. As a highly sophisticated craft, demolition requires experts who have specialized training and equipment in order to be carried out safely and effectively. Here are the answers to a few frequently asked demolition questions. (more…)
The Greek Parthenon is one of the oldest masonry structures.
As one of the oldest building techniques known to man, masonry construction has a long and rich history. Masonry has provided humans with protection from the elements, and helped to establish long-term dwellings. Despite how ancient the masonry craft is, it remains a widely popular and useful technique for construction in modern society. (more…)
Masons can employ advanced bricklaying techniques.
Mason and bricklayer are two commonly confused titles. While these two professions do overlap in some of their duties and requirements, the hard truth is that not all bricklayers are masons. Most of it comes down to skill level. Typically, masons employ much more advanced bricklaying techniques that differentiate them from the average bricklayer. (more…)
A custom masonry monument lets others know who you are as well as provides useful information at a glance.
An outdoor sign is one of the most traditional forms of advertising, but it is still one of the most effective.
Custom masonry monuments catch the eye of a potential customer, and it’s a nice way to introduce your business to a new potential client. With a well-placed sign, you help set your business up for success. Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits of custom masonry monuments. (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…)
Which should you go with: brick veneer or solid brick?
Brick veneer and solid brick structures use some of the same construction materials, but their installation techniques are different. Brick veneer is not, contrary to popular belief, composed of thin pieces of brick though it looks almost identical to a solid brick structure. Brick veneer is constructed from steel or wooden framing, covered with wood sheathing or insulation. A single layer of brick is built near each exterior wall and held fast with metal ties. Veneer brick does not support the structure of the house but serves an entirely cosmetic function. There are many benefits and advantages to this method. (more…)
Last week we talked about what is in a mason’s toolkit (trowel, hammer and chisel, power saw, level), but not all tools are created equally. When it comes time to cut through the toughest materials, you have more than one option. Your choices include a right angle grinder, cut-off saw, paver saw, handheld power saw or a full-size masonry table saw. All of these tools should be used with extreme caution. But what benefits does a masonry table saw hold when stacked against your other options?
There are a handful of tools that you’ll find in every mason’s toolkit.
You may have wondered what tools a mason needs to create a wall or a walkway. Whether you are a masonry enthusiast or just plain curious, we can share with you the tools of our trade. Read on to learn what tools a mason uses to lay level bricks, make mortar, and cut concrete.
You’ll never catch a mason without his trusty trowel. Trowels are used for applying mortar and come in two varieties: London and Philadelphia. The difference between these two types of trowels is just the subtle shape of the blade; each one is just as good as the other for handling mortar. A larger trowel will most likely be used to apply mortar to new bricks and stones. A smaller trowel is great for the delicate work of repairing old mortar joints and scraping off excess mortar. (more…)