Regularly inspecting your stone building for wear and tear is vital in commercial stone restoration.
Regularly inspecting your stone building for wear and tear is vital in commercial stone restoration. There are multiple problems like cracking stones, crumbling mortar, moisture damage, and weakening walls that must be repaired to ensure the integrity of stone buildings. Fortunately, a masonry professional can conduct these repairs.
Cracking Stones
Over time, stones will begin to crack. Freezing temperatures during the winter will trap moisture inside the stone and release it in the warmer weather. Even though stones typically “breathe” moisture in and out, excess moisture will harm the stone. This is something to look out for when performing a commercial stone restoration inspection.
Crumbling Mortar
Well-built stone buildings can last for hundreds of years. However, the building might remain standing even though the mortar holds the stones together crumbles. A masonry expert must replace the crumbling mortar as soon as you discover it. Replacing crumbling mortar includes the process of repointing. Remember, experienced professionals must install new mortar during a commercial stone restoration.
Moisture Damage
Moreover, moisture damage can trigger various structural problems. For example, one significant issue is efflorescence. When this occurs, natural salts present in the layers of stones and mortar break down. Once the root cause of the efflorescence is dealt with, it’s easy to eliminate its traces from your building stones. Make sure to use a stiff brush and water to lift the powder. Also, utilize the same brush and detergent to clean any remaining powder from the stone to restore its original look.
Weakening Walls
Walls are another area of your building where stones can weaken. When stones begin to weaken, the walls will weaken as well. It’s also a potential disaster for the entire building if the walls start to bow or collapse. One probable cause of walls weakening is water damage from unresolved roof leaks. Another possible cause is the building’s foundation weakening. As a result, weakened walls and foundations will need to be rebuilt to save your stone building.
Do you need a commercial stone restoration? Call us today at 410-683-0650!
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: baltimore commercial masonry, commercial stone masonry, commercial stone restoration