Many people are vaguely familiar with masonry walls but have no clue regarding specifics. There are actually several types of masonry used in building construction. Walls made of masonry are the most strong and durable part of any building. The masonry provides strength and durability to the structure. It also helps to control indoor and […]
As a general rule, a chimney is the first part of the masonry on a building that will show signs of age and deterioration. This is due in large part that a chimney is under almost constant attack from all the elements. Because chimneys are situated above the roofline, they have no roof or gutter […]
Shifting and settling soils can wreak havoc on the foundation of a home. With the volatile weather we experience in northern Illinois, this is something for homeowners to monitor. Foundation repairs are a fact of life for many people. It is important to remember a poorly performed brick and mortar repair may leave a permanent […]
Due to regular increases in the population, more structures are under construction than ever before. This is very true in the United States. Whether it’s a large metropolitan area or small town, you can safely assume the next skyscraper or high-rise building will be built very soon. For any office building or residential complex, it […]
The end of the year is the ideal time to inspect, and if necessary, repair your chimney. These structures are essential to keeping the temperature at the proper level for comfort and safety. Chimneys are constantly exposed to the cold, wet and harsh elements so common in the Midwest. The always changing and unpredictable weather […]
A split-face block is a concrete masonry unit that continues to grow in popularity. It is most commonly used to erect walls that are later reinforced with cement and waterproofing materials. Afterward, the surface of the wall is then smoothed and evened. Maintenance is needed to prevent water from leaking through the concrete blocks of the […]
The days are getting shorter, which means autumn is right around the corner. Cooler temperatures will be here very soon. Now is the best time to check your chimney to see if it will keep your home warm this winter. You should check your chimney to make sure it is safe and in good shape. […]
For buildings and homes, the quality and condition of the roof is extremely important. If you experience cold drafts or leaks, you should have it looked at as soon as possible. Not only are these conditions uncomfortable, but they can also lead to major damage and expensive repairs later. One of the most effective methods […]
Most people have heard of the word “tuckpointing” but are a bit unclear of its exact definition. In its simplest terms, tuckpointing refers to the process used to repair mortar joints in brick masonry or stone. This is accomplished by raking out the old mortar and filling it in with new material. Tuckpointing is hard […]
The summer months are usually the slowest times of the year for masonry work. This is because brick suppliers are less behind during the warmer months. The optimal time to begin masonry repairs tends to be in autumn. This is because temperatures are cooler, and precipitation has yet to become a problem. Rain can complicate […]