Archive for the ‘ Masonry Restoration ’ Category

Brick Masonry Restoration: Tuckpointing vs. Repointing

Thursday, May 24th, 2018

Though often used interchangeably, tuck-pointing and repointing are two different methods of brick masonry restoration!

Brick is a very durable masonry material and can last for years with little maintenance. However, just like anything else, it can start to wear down over time. After a while, you will be in need of masonry restoration. Often times, people interchange tuckpointing and repointing, two common types of brick masonry restoration, but they are actually different from one another.

Tuckpointing

This method of brick masonry restoration uses two different colors of mortar to refill damaged mortar joints or just to give your existing brick masonry a nicer look. The first color is made to blend in with the bricks so that you can’t really see it much at all. The second color is for the mortar joint themselves, so is more of a white color. This method makes the mortar joints appear to be thin because you can’t see the brick colored mortar. People tend to choose this method of masonry restoration when they are trying to mimic the look of high-end rubbed bricks for less money.

Repointing

The main difference between tuckpointing and repointing is that repointing is specifically for damaged bricks. The process of repointing fills in or replaces mortar joints that have been damaged, crumbled, or cracked. Repointing does not give the brick masonry a different look or make the joints appear to be any thinner. The sole purpose of this masonry restoration method is to fix what has been broken.

Signs That You Need Repairs

The mortar joints in brick masonry can start to show damage within 20 to 30 years of being constructed. Here are some signs that your brick masonry may need repairs:

Mortar erosion is more than 6mm
Crumbling mortar
Small cracks in the mortar
Cracks or gaps in between the bricks themselves

Contact Del Prete Masonry Today For Your Masonry Restoration

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, Google+, and Pinterest

Posted in Masonry Restoration

Signs That Your Chimney May Need Repairs

Friday, May 18th, 2018

If your chimney is damaged, it could lead to water damage and even cause a fire hazard.

You may not check your chimney often, but it is a good idea to do so every now again to make sure it is still in good shape. With varying weather conditions, you never know when damage could have been done. A damaged chimney can be dangerous and lead to fire hazards, so you don’t want to ignore it. Here are some signs that your chimney may need repairs.

Damaged Mortar Joints

Mortar is what holds bricks together. If the mortar joints are damaged, that could mean the chimney is severely damaged because it exposes the bricks to more moisture. If water gets into the small cracks in masonry, they can become larger. If you don’t address this problem, your chimney could eventually collapse.

Rusted Firebox

If you see rust on the firebox or damper, that is a sign that moisture is getting to the chimney. If the damper becomes harder to operate, that could be a sign that it is rusting so you want to take a closer look if this occurs. Rusting can lead to the flue tiles cracking, which is very dangerous because it allows more heat to come in, which could cause a fire.

Spalling Bricks

Spalling is when water gets into the brick (or any masonry material) and causes the surface of the masonry to peel off. This is easier to spot than the other signs because pieces of masonry will begin to fall off. You want to address this as soon as you notice it because the chimney will eventually crumble completely.

Cracked Crown

The top of the chimney is one of the most important parts because it is the first layer of protection against the elements. Cracks in the crown allows water to get in and will eventually make the cracks larger, leading to spalling. You can prevent this altogether by waterproofing the chimney crown or the entire chimney.

Contact Del Prete Masonry Today For Your Masonry Needs

Posted in Masonry Restoration

Tips For Repairing Masonry Cracks

Wednesday, April 11th, 2018

Masonry cracks may seem minor at first, but they can expand and become a big, costly problem.

Even the most well-made masonry can occasionally crack, and while most of us are content to leave a few seemingly cosmetic issues, it’s important to repair any cracks as quickly as possible. Even the smallest masonry cracks can lead to serious, costly repairs down the line. Why not take a few precautions and save yourself some time and energy in the long run?

Small Wall Cracks

If you have a wall crack of less than 1/16th of an inch, your fix is fairly simple. After carefully cleaning out the crack, use a gel or cream adhesive with either butyl rubber or silicone rubber. These are sold at most hardware stores in tube format labeled as caulking compounds. Using a small brush with stiff bristles apply the caulking mixture straight from the tube, using the brush to ensure that the entire crack is filled.

Medium Wall and Driveway Cracks

When you have a larger crack or one that is frequently walked on, caulking is not the best option. Caulking in high traffic areas can result in the caulking getting disrupted, making it a less than optimal repair method. For these repairs you’ll need to pick up patching cement, which is made from a mix of cement, sand and is reinforced with vinyl. This type of cement is typically sold as a powder to be mixed with water. When applied in layers, this will perfectly patch narrow cracks.

Large Wall Cracks

In the event of a large wall crack, you may want to contact your masonry company for professional help. You will want to ensure your wall is still in serviceable condition before putting forth the effort of patching it. Large cracks can be repaired easily enough, however you’ll want to make sure it’s not indicative of a larger problem before you patch it. Once you’ve had it looked over, you can pick up some sand-patching cement to begin your repair. It’s important to note that areas patched with this method need to be over a half inch deep and of a significant size. To start, clean out the area of the crack. You’ll want to chisel out the interior, removing any crumbling areas, while making the interior wider than the opening so that the cement can get a better grip. Make sure to remove any dirt and dampen the crack before applying the cement.

Large Pavement Cracks

When it comes to large masonry cracks in driveways, steps, or pavement a mix of simple powdered concrete is all you’ll need to make the repair. Simply mix the concrete according to the directions, pour it into the cracked area and use boards or etc. to hold it in place as it hardens.

For All Your Masonry Needs Look To Del Prete Masonry

If you need help fixing cracked masonry, 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, Google+, and Pinterest.

Posted in Masonry Restoration

Signs That Your Masonry Needs Reparation

Friday, February 16th, 2018

Make sure you know when it is time for masonry reparation!

Your masonry might need reparation if there is seepage or structural damage present. However, how can you identify whether one of those two conditions are occurring? There are many signs, some subtle and some obvious, that your masonry is in need of repair. Here is what you need to know about the signs you might need masonry reparation!

Seepage Problems

Every foundation can slowly seep water into the home through tiny cracks in the basement floor as a result of increased hydrostatic pressure. This can also occur over the foundation wall whenever there are yard drainage problems, grading issues, or poorly sloped exterior hardscaping additions (like sidewalks, patios, and decks). Anything that forces water to flow towards your home instead of away from it can lead to seepage problems on the inside of the home.

Porous Masonry

What is the masonry in your home made from? If the stone used to make your foundation was porous, like unglazed telephone tile or terra cotta, it could cause seepage and foundation problems. Historic district brick foundations are also sometimes made from old clay bricks that can absorb excess water and start to deteriorate. The biggest problem-type of foundation is made from CMU, which is also known as concrete block. This mixture can be very porous if it is not properly made.

Mortar Joints

Mortar joints are also a prime spot for problems with seepage in foundations and masonry, since mortar is simply a mixture of cement and sand. If the masonry has not been repointed in a while, the mortar might be deteriorated to the extent that it cannot keep moisture out from the surface of the bricks adequately. Mortar joints are a very common weak spot in masonry walls, so if you are experiencing seepage and not sure where it’s coming from, there’s a good chance that it’s from them!

Structural Issues

Structural problems can also require a masonry reparation to fix. Lateral pressure as a result of very damp soil can put a great deal of pressure on masonry and lead to structural problems. Whenever expanded soil presses firmly against a masonry wall, there is a potential for pushing the wall in a certain direction and creating a need for masonry reparation.

Your Preferred Masonry Professional Is Del Prete Masonry

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, Google+, and Pinterest.

Posted in Masonry Restoration

How We Cut and Replace Brick Joints

Friday, January 26th, 2018

Masonry specialists can cut and replace brick joints professionally.

Sometimes, even though you take care of the brick around your home or business, repairs need to be done. In fact, one of the most common repairs is repointing brick joints where mortar disintegrates or around loose or cracked bricks. Letting damaged or eroded mortar go unrepaired can cause a whole host of problems, mostly from water damage that can impact your interior wall if your home’s exterior is brick. Repointing your bricks can extend the life of your home siding, patio, stairs, or walls and here is how the job gets done right: (more…)

Posted in Brick, Commercial Masonry Baltimore, Masonry Restoration

Understanding Masonry Restoration

Friday, January 19th, 2018

Masonry Restoration is a true necessity in some cases.

Masonry restoration is an important process that keeps historic buildings and new buildings in great condition. While many people assume that repointing a brick wall is the same as restoration, that’s simplifying the process a little bit too much! Here is what you should know to fully understand masonry restoration. (more…)

Posted in Masonry Contractor, Masonry Restoration, Stone Masonry

What Is Mortar Analysis and Where Is It Used?

Friday, December 8th, 2017

Mortar analysis is used to determine what was used to create mortar at a historic or other site so that it can be recreated.

Mortar analysis is used to determine what was used to create mortar at a historic or other site so that it can be recreated. There are two main types of mortar analysis currently used to determine the components of mortar. (more…)

Posted in Masonry Construction, Masonry Restoration

How to Hire the Best Masonry Contractor

Friday, December 1st, 2017

Hiring a masonry contractor can be a stressful process if you aren’t totally sure what you’re doing.

Hiring a masonry contractor can be a stressful process if you aren’t totally sure what you’re doing. However, it’s important to take your time, since the skill of the masonry contractor you select has a direct effect on the quality of the finished product. Here are some of our best tips for hiring the best masonry contractor. (more…)

Posted in Masonry Construction, Masonry Contractor, Masonry Restoration

What Exactly Is Masonry Restoration?

Friday, September 1st, 2017

Masonry restoration is a broad term used to refer to any work on masonry on a home or commercial property that is already standing.

Masonry restoration is a broad term used to refer to any work on masonry on a home or commercial property that is already standing. It can refer to minor repairs in the brick outside or major restoration work on a historical building. Repointing is one of the most essential parts of masonry restoration, but it isn’t the only thing that occurs. Today we’re talking about masonry restoration, and what it is and is not. (more…)

Posted in Masonry Restoration

Tips for Fixing a Crumbling Brick Chimney

Wednesday, March 22nd, 2017

We will go over some basic tips for fixing a crumbling brick chimney.

Is your your roof in need of some repairs? Do those repairs have to do with a crumbling brick chimney? Well, worry no more, because in our blog this week we will go over some basic tips for fixing a crumbling brick chimney. Read on to learn more about the tools and tasks you need to get the job done. (more…)

Posted in Blog, Brick, Masonry Restoration