Things to Know About Masonry

Masonry is among the most popular construction methods used around the world. However, this method is usually misunderstood. Based on the definition of masonry, it is any stonework building or structure in which materials, such as stones, concrete blocks, and more, are connected and bound with the help of mortar. A paste type of mortar, cement, when dry, aids the structure to hold together.  

Each country all over the world can give examples of masonry constructions that still even decades after decades. Masonry buildings are strong, durable, and can withstand other physical forces and extreme weather. When masonry is appropriately reinforced, it can even resist hurricanes and earthquakes. Knowing more about masonry can help you determine the best option to get for your construction projects, such as residential homes, businesses, a retaining block wall, walkways, and more.  

Popular Masonry Materials 

A masonry structure is one wherein mortar and masonry materials are utilized. Mortar helps the building material to be kept together and comes in various strengths. Nowadays, the most popular construction materials include concrete, stone, and brick, and here are the following reasons why: 

Concrete 

Concrete blocks are positioned similarly to how bricks are laid, which is usually in a staggered pattern to provide strength to the structure. Due to the concrete blocks’ weight, they can offer promising strength and stability to exterior walls. In terms of size, they are quite larger compared to bricks. Hence, you need less building time, plus they are more fire-resistant and affordable. Moreover, concrete blocks come in various forms, sizes, and shapes, which enables you to achieve versatile and unique construction designs compared to others.  

Stone 

One of the strongest, most durable, and weather-resistant building construction accessible today includes stone. Compared to other materials, the stone has a substantially longer lifespan. Stones can last up to 1,000 years or more. Since stone is resistant to rain, hail, wind, sleet, and stow, this material won’t bend, swell, splinter, warp, or dent. Two kinds of stones are typically utilized in stone masonry—undressed or dressed. Undressed stones—also recognized as rough stones—gives a more natural and unique appearance once laid while the dressed stone is available in both fluid sizes and patterns and can be laid with the usual pattern.  

Brick 

Out of all masonry products, brick is one of the most popular options nowadays. Bricks are usually made out of water, clay, and sand with a hit of lime or ash, which are then baked afterward. Bricks are popular for their longevity, aesthetics, and durability. Usually, brick structures can last generations while remaining classic-looking. Bricks can be purchased in an extensive range of textures and colors and can be set in distinct patterns that add distinct strength levels to the structures. This material will do great in several climates.  

Masonry structures usually give a great deal of range and can be utilized outside and inside your house, walls, office, chimneys, etc. if interested, contact a trusted masonry contractor today and get a free quote from them.  

When to Consider Repairing Your Exterior Masonry?

Brick houses are renowned for being low-maintenance and sturdy. Compared to wooden siding, you do not really need to paint and scrape bricks. Moreover, bricks don’t easily surrender to UV damage similar to vinyl sidings as well. Although, brick isn’t totally maintenance-free. So, expect that your bricks will be needing some repairs at some point. Moreover, it is best to know how to identify whether your exterior brick masonry should be repaired or not. To help you with that, here are some of the warning signs to pay attention to: 

Spalling at the shelf angle 

Once the surface of your bricks is chipping, it is considered as spalling. This phenomenon is when a shelf angle is corroding. If this is the case, it can eventually be weak. As a result, the whole weight of the brick and mortar would unify. Basing on the age of your walls and how healthy their surrounding soil on your building and home is, this can extremely be bad for you.  

Missing mortar 

Usually, the mortar between bricks gets destructed even before the bricks themselves begin to deteriorate. It’s fine when your mortar looks a bit chipped and crumbly. However, if there’s already a missing mortar from the joints, then this is another story. The mortar is responsible for holding everything in place. If not for them, your brick wall Scottsdale is one step away from collapsing down. A certified masonry expert can help you eliminate whatever will remain of the dented mortar and place new mortar into its place, which will make your wall r-stabilized. 

Bricks are compacting and crumbling in particular spots 

Try to observe your walls and see if there are a few bricks that are being compressed and crushed. This is an indication that the wall isn’t evenly backing the weight of your house. It will just get worse as it will make your interior walls unaligned especially if you delay taking action about it. A certified brick mason can help you lever up a side of your house, reallocate the pressure, and change the crushed bricks.   

Cracking corners 

Brickwork normally forms some cracks here and there sooner or later. At the initial cracking sign, you notice, you do not need to contact a mason yet. However, when your brickwork’s corners start to crack, then immediately schedule for brick repairs with the help of the brick experts. If you neglect the cracks at the corners of your brickwork, it can possibly affect its stability. Your house may begin to sink down in that corner. Moreover, you may observe that waters reach into your basement after a severe rain or storm. In this case, you should have your corner bricks eliminated, changed, and then re-mortared as soon as possible.   

Due to several potential signs of damage, you should guarantee to check your brick walls at least once/twice per year. If you can identify any of the issues stated above, never hesitate to contact a brick mason expert right away for it to be repaired.