Learn more about the difference between masonry restoration and repairs, and when they are needed.
Masonry is a construction method that uses cement mortar to hold bricks or stones together. If you own a building composed of bricks or stones, you may need masonry repair at one point or another. However, sometimes masonry restoration describes the services that are required. Restoration serves to freshen up masonry that is showing the signs of aging and wear and tear that comes with it. What are the differences between masonry restoration and repair? Del Prete Masonry can provide our clients with both varieties of services, so their masonry buildings can remain beautiful and functional.
What Is Masonry Repair?
Your masonry may need repairs if you notice chipped or cracked bricks, crumbling mortar, or discoloration that indicates the masonry is retaining moisture.
Masonry repair includes patching and plugging gaps and cracks in the mortar. It also removes and replaces old mortar or bricks that have lost structural integrity. Masonry repair frequently involves replacing stone, brick, and mortar in specific locations. If required, the repair team needs to match any new material to the surrounding material so there is no change in appearance.
What Is Masonry Restoration?
Masonry restoration is often a much larger project than repairs. This is because repairs typically focus on one damaged part of the building, while restoration can involve the entire building. Regular repairs can extend the life of any masonry, but eventually, that is no longer possible. At that point, the masonry must be restored to improve the building’s appearance and keep it standing.
Masonry restoration is crucial for older, historic buildings. Proper restoration can preserve these buildings for generations when done correctly. Even if your building has no historical status, restoration can improve its appearance and, in turn, boost its value.
The Masonry Restoration Process
The first step in restoration is removing old, worn-out materials. These are then replaced with brand-new materials that match the originals. Mortar, cement, and bricks naturally weaken over time, so replacing the old with the new will help structural integrity remain intact.
Restoration is a more substantial job, and the goal of restoration is always to restore the building to its original appearance and strength. Repairs are more common, more limited in scope, and can be done faster than restorations.
Ultimately, masonry restoration is only needed when an entire building’s masonry must be replaced. However, regular masonry repairs can extend your masonry life and prolong the time you have before restoration is necessary.
CONTACT DEL PRETE MASONRY TODAY!
Whether you are ready to start your next masonry project or are still hesitant and have questions, Del Prete Masonry is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to get it right the first time. Questions? Want to visit some of our residential or commercial projects? Ready to set up a consultation? Feel free to give us a call at 410-683-0650 or visit us online. We are happy to serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and to keep up with our new and exciting projects, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Tags: masonry construction, masonry repairs, masonry restoration