It is an exciting time when you invest in having a new masonry structure built for your home or business. Once everything is said and done, and the installation is completed successfully, you can sit back and enjoy your beautiful new piece. Right? Well, there are some things that you should consider to make sure that your new masonry structure stays in good shape, as well as things you should avoid to keep from accidentally ruining it. Here is a short guide to help you get started on enjoying your new masonry structure for a lifetime.
Wait for It
Just like getting a new car, many people are excited to jump right in to caring for their new masonry structure. However, it is a really bad idea to try cleaning a masonry structure right after it has been built. For one thing, the mortar needs plenty of time to set and cure properly. Otherwise, any manipulation could cause cracks and other problems. At least, you should wait a whole month before trying anything on your masonry structure. Your patience will be rewarded.
How to Clean
Now, when the time comes to clean your masonry structure, there are some basic steps to remember. First, use the right cleaning materials; these include anything in the mild category. Avoid harsh chemicals and sandblasters and even power washers in some cases, because all of these could damage your structure. You can look in the hardware store for specific cleaners for masonry structures, or call back your masonry contractor for advice.
Watch the Weather
Lastly, another factor that new owners might not know about is that the weather has a big effect on masonry care. In fact, it is best to clean and perform maintenance on your masonry structure only in warm weather. When it is cold outside, the masonry materials become more brittle, and you are more likely to damage them if you try to clean it. When in doubt, you should contact a professional if you really need to address your masonry structure during colder weather. They will know the best procedure to clean and take care of it without damaging the surface.
Contact Del Prete Masonry Today for Your Construction Needs!
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, and Pinterest.
Tags: masonry construction, masonry materials, masonry structure