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Masonry Repairs vs. Restoration: What’s the Difference?

Friday, July 13th, 2018

You can choose either masonry repairs or masonry restoration to fix your damaged masonry.

If you are noticing that your masonry is starting to look damaged and worn down, it may be time to invest some money into fixing it. Masonry repairs and masonry restoration are actually two different things. Your contractor will either do one or the other to renew your masonry, depending on your needs. Here is the difference between masonry repairs and masonry restoration.

The Process

Repair: When a contractor repairs masonry, they replace the areas that are damaged with new brick or stone. They will often use caulking to repair any small masonry cracks and use concrete to fill larger cracks.

Restoration: With masonry restoration, all of the old masonry is removed and new mortar is put down (a process called repointing). After the new mortar is applied, the masonry is applied again. They will clean the mortar and seal the surface so that the original look of it is preserved, but it will look as if it was freshly built all over again.

Time Frame

Repair: The time that it takes for masonry repairs varies depending on how bad the damage is and how detailed the masonry is. However, repairs are typically done in a shorter period of time than restoration.

Restoration: Masonry restoration requires a lot more attention to detail than repairs. This is because the new elements must match the surrounding older materials to make it look as good as new. You want to plan for a longer process when choosing restoration.

Budget

Repair: Because masonry repairs are generally less extensive than masonry restoration, repairs are typically the cheaper option. This is good for those who have a smaller budget, but still want to improve the look of their masonry.

Restoration: Masonry restoration requires a larger budget than repairs do. However, the final result is worth the money invested into it. Masonry restoration gives your building a fresh look and may be worth expanding your budget for.

Contact Del Prete Masonry Today for Your Masonry Repairs and Restoration!

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 Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Pinterest.

Posted in Masonry Restoration

4 Potential Causes of Masonry Deterioration

Friday, July 6th, 2018

Masonry materials are made to last for years, but even the best projects can eventually start to deteriorate.

Masonry materials are some of the best to use for construction projects, giving buildings a timeless look and a long lifespan. However, even masonry deteriorates over time, meaning you will eventually need some repairs. Here are four potential causes of masonry deterioration.

Poor Design/Materials

Older buildings that were constructed from masonry materials may not have used the best quality materials or had the best design. New technology and upgrades allows us to have better quality buildings and materials. Man made materials as well as natural materials aren’t always the best quality which can lead to masonry deterioration. In addition to this, if the maintenance isn’t kept up with and repairs aren’t made when needed, it can speed up the deterioration process.

Corrosion & Secondary Materials

A lot of older masonry buildings incorporated secondary materials into the design for added support. Things like iron alloys are put into a lot of buildings to help make them sturdier. However, though it helps with sturdiness, these materials are way more susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion can affect the capacity of the material as well as put a lot of pressure on the rest of the masonry. If corrosion gets too bad, it can lead to deterioration and require very expensive repairs or even restoration.

Movement/Settlement

Over time, different natural factors can cause the building itself or the land underneath of it to move. Things like earthquakes or settlement of different materials over time can cause these movements. Masonry cracks are the first sign that there has been some type of movement in or around the building. You want to contact a professional if you notice masonry cracks so that they can help pinpoint the exact source, repair the cracks, and hopefully prevent them from recurring.

Moisture

Depending on what type of masonry materials are used for a building, moisture infiltration can be an issue. Masonry buildings are designed to resist damage from things like the sun and water. However, even a well designed building can be subject to water damage if it isn’t maintenanced correctly. You want to keep the mortar in good shape at all times, making repairs when necessary. As mentioned earlier, you also want to look out for any cracks as well and get them fixed as soon as possible. These things can lead to moisture getting into the masonry, causing masonry deterioration.

Contact Del Prete Masonry Today!

Posted in Lintel Deterioration

Choosing the Best Mortar Type for Your Masonry Project

Friday, June 29th, 2018

There are several different types of mortar that you can choose from, so make sure you are picking the best one for your specific masonry project!

With so many types of mortar mixes on the market, it can be difficult to choose which type of mortar will be best for your upcoming masonry project. Whether you are more of a DIY person or you are going to hire a professional, it is still important to understand which mortar types are best for certain kinds of projects. Mortar mixes are classified based on compressive strength, bonding properties, and flexibility. Each kind has a different ratio of cement, lime, and sand. Here are some of the different types of mortar and when you should use them.

Mortar Type N

You should use mortar type N for exterior and above-grade walls that are frequently exposed to severe weather conditions and high heat. This type of mortar has a mid-level compressive strength. It is composed of one part cement, one part lime, and six parts land. This is the perfect type of mortar for soft stone masonry, and it is the mortar that is used the most for general application.

Mortar Type O

Mortar type O has a low compressive strength and is best when used on interior and non-load-bearing walls. It should rarely be used in outdoor areas. It is super consistent and can be easily applied. Best used in interior environments!

Mortar Type S

Mortar type S has a high compressive strength and is ideal to be used for masonry at or below grade. It can fight soil pressure, wind, and even seismic conditions. Mortar type S is great for projects like foundations, manholes, retaining walls, sewers, brick patios, and brick pavements.

Mortar Type M

Mortar type M has the highest percentage of cement in it out of all the mortar types. It is best for heavy loads, foundations, retaining walls, and driveways. Although it is extremely strong, its adhesive properties are poor so it should not be used for sealing. Type M mortar is great when used with stone.

Mortar Type K

Mortar type K is rarely used. It is only necessary when refinishing historic or ancient buildings that require a special mortar mix. It has a very low compressive strength and is very difficult to manage. Mortar type K should never be used for DIY projects.

Contact Del Prete Masonry for Your Next Masonry Project!

Posted in Mortar

Why You Should Use Stonemasonry for Your Next Project

Friday, June 22nd, 2018

Stonemasonry is a very heat resistant material, making it great for fireplaces and chimneys!

When it comes to any construction project, the materials you decide to use make a big difference in the finished product. You want to choose high quality materials that also match the aesthetic you want. Stonemasonry is a great building material that will suit all of your construction needs. Here is why you should use stonemasonry for your next project.

Beauty

Stone provides a timeless, beautiful look to any building or structure. The sophisticated aesthetic of stonemasonry makes it great for any construction project. Stonemasonry is also versatile so there are a variety of design options you can choose from that will match your personal style.

Safety

Stonemasonry is one of the safest and most durable building materials you will come across. It has a very high heat tolerance, making it good for things like chimneys and fireplaces. It is also very wind resistant so it holds up well in harsh weather conditions. Oftentimes, the high safety quality of stonemasonry will lead insurance companies to charge less for stone versus other materials.

Low-Maintenance

Because of how sturdy stonemasonry is, there isn’t too much maintenance required. Stone doesn’t rust or require re-painting as time goes on. Repairs are typically minimal and your stone building or structure will rarely ever need replacing. This minimizes the amount of material that goes to waste, making it more environmentally-friendly.

Cost-Effective

Stonemasonry itself can be a pretty costly investment initially. However, it will save you a lot of money over time. As mentioned before, stone is a very durable material so you won’t be spending a lot of money on maintaining it, as well as the decreased insurance costs. In addition to this, stonemasonry can be combined with various insulation products that makes it energy efficient. This helps to decrease those costly monthly energy bills.

Contact Del Prete Masonry Today for Your Next Construction Project!

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 Stone Masonry

The 5 Types of Bricks: Which is Best for Your Masonry Project?

Friday, June 15th, 2018

Brick is a great material for your masonry project and there are so many different types to choose from!

Brick is a great, classic masonry material that can be used for any building or structure. Bricks are very durable and last a long time with little maintenance, but there are multiple types. Here are the five types of bricks so that you can choose which is best for your masonry project.

Common Burnt Clay

Burnt clay bricks are made by a mold that is pressed in. The bricks are then dried and fired in a kiln to solidify them. These bricks are typically used for general construction work. They have no special appearance, making them pretty generic. Plastering is required to put these bricks into walls.

Sand Lime

A combination of sand, fly ash, and lime are what makes up sand lime bricks. A chemical process is implemented during the mixing of the material and then it’s molded to form the brick. Sand lime bricks are a gray color rather than the typical red, giving your masonry project a unique appearance. Their finish is smoother because it doesn’t require plastering like the burnt clay bricks.

Engineering

What makes engineering bricks different than others is that they are made at extremely high temperatures. This gives them more strength and density. In addition to this, they are also really good at resisting water and chemicals. These bricks are typically used for a specific or special masonry project because they cost more than regular bricks.

Concrete

These bricks are made from solid concrete and are commonly used by homebuilders. They give a building a nice aesthetic, often used for fences and facades. They can be made in a variety of different colors and are best used for a masonry project that is focused on visuals and aesthetics.

Fly Ash Clay

Clay and fly ash are combined to make this type of brick. They are combined and produced at about 1,000 degrees celsius. These bricks are more cost friendly because they cost less to install and require less mortar. The downside to these bricks is that they can tend to expand when water gets into them..

Contact Del Prete Masonry Today for Your Next Masonry Project

Posted in Brick

Common Causes of Masonry Cracks

Friday, June 8th, 2018

It’s good to know what caused your masonry cracks so that you know the best way to repair them.

Masonry materials are pretty durable, but they are constantly enduring the various elements of nature. Over time, the masonry can begin to wear down and even crack. There are several different causes of masonry cracks, so here are a few to help you narrow down the cause of yours.

Shrinkage & Expansion

These masonry cracks usually appear within the first year of construction. This is because masonry expands and contracts during the curing process. With concrete block, water evaporates as the block cures, causing it to shrink. With brick masonry, the moisture is absorbed while it’s curing, causing expansion. Joints are typically built in walls to accommodate this shrinkage or expansion, but improper joints can lead to cracking. Shrinkage/expansion cracks typically aren’t serious and widen as they move upward.

Uneven Settlement

Settlement occurs early after a building’s construction and typically is caused from an improper foundation. This typically occurs in the early years of a building’s construction or if there’s a change in underground conditions. Cracks from uneven settlement typically appear at corners and openings and follow a diagonal line. Bigger cracks can be a problem, but small cracks are only a real issue if moisture can get through them.

Masonry Piers

Masonry piers sometimes rotate or settle differently than when they started. In addition, cold weather can cause them to frost or be damaged by the freeze/thaw cycle. This could lead to the piers themselves cracking. The cracks typically aren’t serious but a shift in masonry piers can cause the wood components of masonry to lose their bearings.

Sweeping/Horizontal Cracks

If you notice these types of cracks, you probably want to get it fixed as soon as possible. Causes of sweeping cracks include things like vibrations from machinery or vehicles that are close by, improper backfilling, or freezing of the soil next to the wall. These cracks are a sign that the foundation wall itself is breaking, so masonry repairs or restoration may be necessary.

Contact Del Prete Masonry Today for Your Masonry Needs!

Posted in Masonry Restoration

3 Weather Conditions that Can Impact Masonry Construction

Friday, June 1st, 2018

Extreme weather conditions can really have an affect on the quality of masonry construction, so make sure you check the weather in advance!

Masonry construction can be a lengthy process, especially when constructing an entire building. It is important to keep the weather conditions in mind when planning a masonry construction project because the weather can affect the quality of construction. Here are three weather conditions that can impact masonry construction.

Extreme Cold

Cold weather can cause the cement hydration process to stop completely. Mortar needs a certain amount of heat for the cement to hydrate which is important because that’s what gives the mortar its strength. If any masonry materials become frozen, they have to be melted and dried before they can be used. Preheated bricks are a good way to prevent this problem from occurring if you know in advance that it’s going to be cold outside. Freezing temperatures can also reduce the strength of mortar, making it more likely to unbond or allow water into it.

Hot & Dry

The opposite of extreme cold, hot and dry weather can also negatively impact masonry construction. The issue with hot weather is that the water from the mortar may evaporate or absorb too quickly, causing it to settle too soon. This will also decrease the bond strength between each brick and make the masonry more likely to leak. Hot, dry weather can also lead to an accumulation of dry dust, which can affect machinery and the health of the construction workers.

High Winds

If it is really windy outside, masonry workers must decide if it’s safe enough to even construct that day at all. Some equipment is only designed to withstand so much wind, so it becomes dangerous to try and use it in extreme wind conditions. Winds can cause cranes to fall over or swing the material away from the crane, which could cause a crash.

Contact Del Prete Masonry For Your Next Construction Project!

Posted in Masonry Construction

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

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

The Steps Involved In The Demolition Process

Friday, May 11th, 2018

Though it seems like tearing down a building is easy, there is actually a lot that goes into the demolition process.

While it may seem like demolishing a building is as easy as just tearing it down, there is actually a lot that goes into the process. The demolition of a building can be dangerous so it is important to plan well and prepare the space. Here are the steps involved in the demolition process.

Creating A Plan

The first step in the demolition process is coming up with a plan. There are different methods of demolition depending on what type of building it is, the material it’s made of, the size of the building, and what it’s near. The goal when creating a plan is to pick the method that is the most efficient, safe, and within budget. Once you’ve decided on a method, the demolition company can figure out what equipment will be needed, how much debris will be left, how long it will take to clean up, etc. You should also include an emergency plan just in case.

Permits

Demolishing a building will inevitably change the landscape and look of that area, which can also have an impact on property value and taxes within that area. Because of this, you are often required to get permits to demolish a building and the requirements for the permit varies depending on the city.

Site Preparation

This is a very important step in the demolition process because you can’t just blow up a building with everything still inside of it. You must clean out the entire building of all objects. In addition, you need to rid of all utilities such as gas and electricity, as well as any hazardous materials. Essentially, you want to rid of any and everything that’s inside.

Demolition

The final step in the demolition process is actually getting rid of the building. Once everything is planned out, you’ve obtained your permits, and prepared the sites, you can successfully carry out the demolition.

Contact Del Prete Masonry For Your Building Demolition Today!

Posted in Demolition