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Author Archive

5 Reasons to Choose Brick

Friday, November 11th, 2016
brick structure

Choose brick because it’s timeless.

1. Genuine clay brick is a durable, natural material.

Brick is made from clay and shale, two of the most abundant, natural materials on earth. These materials are fired through a kiln at up to 2000 degrees, fusing together into the durable material we call brick. Clay brick is actually much stronger than concrete brick, and boasts thousands of color and shade options that will not fade.

2. Brick has been in use for centuries.

Brick started as a building essential in the Near East and India over 5,000 years ago. It has since been used by the ancient Egyptians, the Indus Valley civilization and the Romans. Today, it remains a popular all-American building product that is a staple for our infrastructure. Still, bricks are also subject to much more stringent manufacturing processes. That means it performs better and more consistently than ever before.

3. Provides Superior Protection

Brick is a non-combustible material, meaning it is an excellent choice for cladding and resisting/confining fires. Structures built from brick also offer dramatically more protection from wind-blown debris, and provide superior moisture control than other materials.

4. Brick Looks Better and Requires Less Maintenance

Brick is timeless. It won’t rot, dent, or need to be painted, and it cannot be torn up or eaten by termites. Brick features modular units and shapes that can fit with just about any architectural style, whether it’s colonial, Victorian, or post-modernist. It also tends to look better with age. Plus, brick absorbs noise, making it acoustically advantageous.

5. Brick is Sustainable and Energy-Efficient

Brick has exceptional “thermal mass” properties, meaning it has the ability to store heat and then slowly release. This helps brick structures stay cool during the hot summer months and warm during the winter. Brick also produces minimal waste, is incredibly recyclable, and otherwise incredibly environmentally friendly.

Masonry Repair and Restoration from Del Prete Masonry

For all of your questions regarding masonry repair and restoration, feel free to contact Del Prete Masonry. Our masonry restoration professionals have the experience and history of satisfied clients to prove that we’ll get the job done right, and cost-effectively. To get started with your masonry restoration project, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County.

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Fun Facts about Brick

Friday, November 4th, 2016
brick

Brick has been used for thousands of years by masonry experts.

It is one of the most eco-friendly materials available for construction. Most bricks are made from clay that has been heated to a thousand degrees centigrade. This timeless construction material remains an essential component of the masonry process. Here are a few fun and interesting facts about brick and brickwork: (more…)

Caring for Your Decorative Concrete During Winter

Wednesday, October 26th, 2016
decorative concrete

Make sure you protect your decorative concrete features this winter.

It’s starting to get cold again, and winter can really wreak havoc on decorative concrete. Besides the weather itself being a hazard, harsh chemical de-icers can actually damage concrete and landscaping details. If your business features beautiful decorative concrete, it’s important that you take steps to protect your investment. Here are a few tips for caring for your decorative concrete this winter. (more…)

Frequently Asked Demolition Questions

Wednesday, October 19th, 2016
demolition

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 Difference Between Limestone and Marble

Thursday, October 13th, 2016
limestone and marble

Marble is a metamorphic rock, the result of a transformation of pre-existing rock.

For centuries, limestone and marble have been used to create man-made monuments and structures. The Great Pyramid of Giza was one of the first architectural marvels crafted with limestone. So what exactly is the difference between limestone and marble? Here’s a look into what makes these stones so unique. (more…)

Repair or Replace Concrete Sidewalks Before Halloween

Thursday, October 6th, 2016
concrete sidewalks

Make sure your concrete sidewalks are safe for trick or treaters this Halloween.

Does your home or business see a lot of traffic from trick or treaters? Concrete sidewalks and walkways that are chipped, sunken, even, or otherwise in a state of disrepair are not only an eyesore that can damage the visual appeal of your property, but also a safety hazard. Consider repairing your sidewalk before Halloween swings around. (more…)

Do I Need Mortar Analysis?

Wednesday, September 28th, 2016
mortar analysis

Mortar analysis is necessary to find a matching mortar for repointing historic structures.

Repointing involves the application of mortar between masonry units. When mortar between masonry joints cracks or spalls, a repointing procedure may be necessary. However, when preparing to repoint a historic masonry structure you may first need to have the mortar analyzed by a professional. A mortar analysis helps find a matching mortar and correct properties needed to prevent the surrounding mortar from being further damaged. If an inappropriate mortar is used, it can actually accelerate the rate at which the masonry deteriorates instead of preserving it. A small investment in mortar analysis can save you a ton of money on the overall life of a project. (more…)

A Brief History of the Masonry Craft

Wednesday, September 21st, 2016
parthenon

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…)

Selecting the Right Type of Masonry Mortar Cement

Wednesday, September 14th, 2016
Every masonry project is going to call for a different type of mortar cement.

Every masonry project is going to call for a different type of mortar cement.

Choosing the right products is an essential part of any masonry project, and mortar cement is no exception. Mortar cement is what acts as the bonding agent for bricks and other building materials. It’s essentially what’s holding your project together, so you’ll want to choose mortar that will stand the test of time. Here are a few types of mortar cements you’ll want to consider. (more…)

Periodic Inspection and Maintenance for Brick Masonry Walls

Friday, September 9th, 2016
brick masonry walls

Brick masonry walls are durable, but still need inspection.

While brick masonry walls are long lasting and durable, it is still important not to overlook their regular inspection and occasional maintenance, if it is required. Regular inspection will help you identify problems, and especially get a handle on small problems before they develop into large expensive ones. With regular inspection you avoid unpleasant surprises. (more…)