Posts Tagged ‘ masonry construction ’

The Benefits Of Using Masonry Materials For Your Next Construction Project

Friday, April 27th, 2018

If you want your building to be low-maintenance, protected from rotting, and sound proof, you should use masonry materials!

One of the most important parts of putting together any building or structure is the materials you are going to use to do so. You want your building or structure to be built nicely and last a long time, which is why you should choose masonry materials to do so. There are so many benefits to using masonry materials and while we wish we could tell you all of them, here are a few.

Sound Proof

Masonry materials block out noise way better than traditional construction materials. This means that when you are inside of a building that was made with masonry materials, you don’t have to worry about being disrupted by outside noises.

Protection From Rotting

Since there is no wood used in masonry, there is nothing that can rot over time. In addition to this, masonry materials can reduce and even eliminate the amount of fungus or mildew that builds up over time between the walls. These build-ups can lead to foundation problems as well as health problems to people who are regularly inside the building.

Low-Maintenance

When you use masonry materials in their natural form, they generally don’t require much maintenance at all. Aside from cleaning every now and again or replacing the mortar if need be, you don’t have to worry about your masonry for years to come. The natural look of masonry materials also provides a beautiful, elegant look.

Lower Utility Bills

If you choose to use concrete block as your preferred masonry material, you are helping to save money on those costly utility bills. This is because concrete block is very well insulated so it stores more energy. It keeps the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer, which means you can turn your air conditioning and heat down some. Masonry materials are natural, so they are also eco-friendly.

Contact Del Prete Masonry For Your Next Masonry 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 Masonry Construction

Signs That Your Masonry Needs Reparation

Friday, February 16th, 2018

Make sure you know when it is time for masonry reparation!

Your masonry might need reparation if there is seepage or structural damage present. However, how can you identify whether one of those two conditions are occurring? There are many signs, some subtle and some obvious, that your masonry is in need of repair. Here is what you need to know about the signs you might need masonry reparation!

Seepage Problems

Every foundation can slowly seep water into the home through tiny cracks in the basement floor as a result of increased hydrostatic pressure. This can also occur over the foundation wall whenever there are yard drainage problems, grading issues, or poorly sloped exterior hardscaping additions (like sidewalks, patios, and decks). Anything that forces water to flow towards your home instead of away from it can lead to seepage problems on the inside of the home.

Porous Masonry

What is the masonry in your home made from? If the stone used to make your foundation was porous, like unglazed telephone tile or terra cotta, it could cause seepage and foundation problems. Historic district brick foundations are also sometimes made from old clay bricks that can absorb excess water and start to deteriorate. The biggest problem-type of foundation is made from CMU, which is also known as concrete block. This mixture can be very porous if it is not properly made.

Mortar Joints

Mortar joints are also a prime spot for problems with seepage in foundations and masonry, since mortar is simply a mixture of cement and sand. If the masonry has not been repointed in a while, the mortar might be deteriorated to the extent that it cannot keep moisture out from the surface of the bricks adequately. Mortar joints are a very common weak spot in masonry walls, so if you are experiencing seepage and not sure where it’s coming from, there’s a good chance that it’s from them!

Structural Issues

Structural problems can also require a masonry reparation to fix. Lateral pressure as a result of very damp soil can put a great deal of pressure on masonry and lead to structural problems. Whenever expanded soil presses firmly against a masonry wall, there is a potential for pushing the wall in a certain direction and creating a need for masonry reparation.

Your Preferred Masonry Professional Is Del Prete Masonry

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 Masonry Restoration

What Is Mortar Analysis and Where Is It Used?

Friday, December 8th, 2017

Mortar analysis is used to determine what was used to create mortar at a historic or other site so that it can be recreated.

Mortar analysis is used to determine what was used to create mortar at a historic or other site so that it can be recreated. There are two main types of mortar analysis currently used to determine the components of mortar. (more…)

Posted in Masonry Construction, Masonry Restoration

The Different Types of Masonry Walls

Friday, September 29th, 2017

Masonry walls are known for providing a great deal of strength and lasting long periods of time without being compromised.

Masonry walls are typically the strongest and sturdiest part of any building. Masonry walls are known for providing a great deal of strength and lasting long periods of time without being compromised. Masonry walls also do a great job at helping to regulate the flow of your indoor temperature outside and vice versa. (more…)

Posted in Masonry Construction, Masonry Contractor

Hot Weather Masonry Tips

Friday, May 19th, 2017

With these masonry tips on hand, you will be more than up to the challenge.

If you are wondering how to best care for your masonry construction as the weather warms, you have come to the right place. It is a valid concern to have, as warm weather poses unique challenges to masonry. With these masonry tips on hand, you will be more than up to the challenge. Read on to learn how to help your masonry handle the heat. (more…)

Posted in Masonry Construction