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Masonry

Modern Masonry Designs For Your Construction

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Masonry is a type of construction work which involves putting together building units and sticking them together using a binding material to form a structure.

The materials commonly used in masonry include stone, clay bricks, concrete masonry units which have varying degrees of resistance to frost, moisture penetration, and weathering resistance and come in varieties of sizes.

Masonry can be used in the construction of many elements of building or structure such as pyramids, walls, columns and towers, beams or lintels, arches, vaults, and domes.

Modern Masonry Designs For Your Construction

Common Masonry Designs

There are many types of masonry used by masons to achieve certain objectives in a building. These types include:

Single-wythe walls that are used in both load bearing and non-load bearing applications.

Solid and composite walls which are made of two or more closely spaced wythes joined by metal ties and which can be reinforced.

Cavity walls that are usually about two inches apart and are good for thermal insulation.

Veneer walls that are non-load bearing but are anchored to a structural backup wall and usually done for decorative purposes.

Masons usually add more value to these designs by use of various modifications. Reinforcement by putting reinforcement in the walls to help it to withstand tension and compression forces.

Composite by constructing with two or more units such as stones or bricks and hollow bricks. Post-tensioning by fixing post-tensioning rods into the foundation.

Merits Of Masonry Designs

There are several benefits of using masonry designs including:

Fire resistance ability which comes from the type of aggregate used, and the solid thickness of the masonry units.

Structural durability as it provides solidity, permanence and a real sense of substance especially if reinforced.

Sound control as it is a perfect sound barrier, providing reduced sound transmission depending on the size of the wall.

Energy efficiency as it is capable of storing energy and delaying the passage of heat.

This is the ‘thermal mass effect’ that allows masonry buildings to be designed with less additional insulation, hence cutting costs and energy consumption and improving the comfort of the living space.

Cost-effectiveness. You can save a lot of money in construction using masonry as there is no formwork needed. It is also very low maintenance and durable which provides additional savings.

Demerits Of Masonry Design

The downside of masonry is that it does not withstand tension loads well and is very susceptible to damage caused by earthquakes.

It tends to be heavy and must be built upon a strong foundation to avoid settling and cracking. It requires skilled labor and is time-consuming to build with making construction a bit slow.

It can be degraded by extreme weather conditions due to expansion and contraction forces. It also has a low tolerance for oscillation as compared to other materials such as reinforced concrete, plastics, wood, or metals.

Why You Need Modern Masonry Designs for Your Construction

Superiority Of Masonry Design

Considering its many qualities such as aesthetic appeal, durability, cost-effectiveness and thermal insulation, etc., masonry is the perfect solution to your construction needs.

Many masonry design companies are available. Pick one qualified company that will handle all your construction issues at affordable rates and give you peace of mind.

Understanding the Different Types of Masonry

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Masonry is the building of structures from individual units usually laid in and bound together by mortar.

Common materials used in masonry include bricks, concrete blocks, building stones, granite, travertine, limestone, cast stone, glass block, and adobe.

Mortar is a mixture of binding material with sand. Binding materials can be cement, lime or soil.

Understanding the Different Types of Masonry

Common Types of Masonry Available

There are many types of masonry available in the market today.

1. Brick masonry: These type of bricks are made of two or more wythes of bricks with the units running horizontally bound together with bricks running transverse to the wall.

2. Concrete block masonry: Concrete blocks of various types are used on this wall including cinder concrete, ordinary concrete, and hollow tiles.

3. Glass block masonry: It is done with blocks made from glass. It provides a translucent or clear vision through the block.

4. Stonework: Stone blocks used in masonry can be dressed or rough. Stone masonry utilizing dressed stones is known as ashlar masonry, while using irregularly shaped stones is known as rubble masonry.

Other Types of Masonry Available

5. Veneer masonry: This consists of clay-based bricks, installed on one or both sides of a structurally independent wall usually constructed of wood or masonry. It is mainly done for decorative purposes and structural.

6. Semi-Interlocking masonry: This is a masonry system that has no mortar. This masonry block uses special curvature to allow the masonry block to stabilize through self-weight when constructed as a panel.

7. Serpentine masonry: A wall with this type of masonry follows a serpentine path and not a straight line. It is more resistant to toppling so despite all that, it is more economical than a straight wall.

These walls can also be: load bearing, if they transfer loads from the roof to the foundation; reinforced if they have reinforcement in the walls; hollow if they have a cavity; composite if constructed with two or more units; post-tensioned if post-tensioning rods are fixed into the foundation.

Advantages of Masonry Walls

Masonry walls are very durable. They make your building strong and durable and also help in temperature control within the building through their enduringness and strength of masonry wall construction, however, is also determined by the type and quality of material used and workmanship.

Concrete masonry blocks are usually much larger than ordinary bricks and so are much faster to lay on any wall and have lower water absorption rates.

Concrete masonry can be manipulated to make them more appealing.

Masonry can be done for any type of building, e.g., church, school, residential homes, factories and industries among others.

The 7 Types of Masonry Available in 2018

Why Go for Masonry?

If durability, cost-effectiveness, and strength while still appealing are a major consideration for your building, masonry walls are the best option as compared to other types of walls.

You can choose from the various types readily available in the market to suit your needs and get them done by one of the many available experienced builders within your reach.

Tips for Choosing a Mason Tool Bag

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Masonry is a profession which requires several tools. It’s therefore important for masons to own a mason tool bag that can store all their work tools.

Over the years, storage solutions for tools have progressed from the days of just getting around with any old bag that had to be repurposed. Today, a mason tool bag has different pockets and compartments designed for just about anything a mason would need.

In addition, they’re convenient to carry around and have protective elements which prevent it from getting damaged by the tools, making them a popular choice for masons.

Tips for Choosing a Mason Tool Bag

What to Look for in a Mason Tool Bag

There are several things you should look for in a mason tool bag. These include:

Handles

For extra comfort, especially if you have to carry lots of tools, ensure the handles of your mason tool bag are padded. In addition, look for a bag which provides multiple handles. Short handles in your mason tool bag are ideal if you’re going a short distance while shoulder handles work for long distance.

Weave

The design fabric of your bag needs to be thicker and heavier. Multiple-layered weaves will help prevent it from easy wear and tear as well as prolong your bag’s lifespan.

Zip

Most mason tool bags fail when it comes to the quality of the zipper used in creating it. A strong and durable zipper will ensure your tools are protected.

Other Factors to Consider

Padding

Any mason knows a quality mason tool bag stands out because of its padding. Padding helps protect your tools from knocks when in motion. Go for a bag that is well padded so as to keep your tools in order and secure.

Pockets

You can never have enough pockets for your tool bag. Pick a bag that has several pockets which vary in size and so as to perfectly house all the different tools you have, regardless of their size.

Base

One key factor most people fail to consider when purchasing a mason tool bag is the base.

A base that’s welded upwards is by far a better option than a riveted or stitched one. This is especially important if you must place the bag on a wet surface as it’ll prevent water from getting inside causing potential tool rust.

Which Tool Bag is Ideal for Me?

Mason tool bags come in different shapes and designs. Depending on the number of tools you have coupled with your preference, there are ideally four main types of tool bags you can choose from.

The usual tool bag provides you with good organization and storage area for your tools while keeping them secure. A backpack comes in handy when you have to commute over a long-distance to get to your place of work as the tool weight is balanced evenly on your back.

6 Benefits of Having the Best Mason Tool Bag

Buying a Mason Tool Bag

The trick in buying a tool bag depends on the tools you have and distance you need to cover before getting to your place of work. These two factors should help you determine the type of bag you go for.

Remember, a tool bag isn’t a short-term investment but a long one. As such, find a mason tool bag that is both convenient and affordable.

Don’t Be Thick as a Brick When It Comes to Using Mason Tools

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Unless you grew up the child of a mason or bricklayer, you will be hard-pressed to not only know who does what but also what tools you might need to get started on your own.  You could always hire someone to come in and perform this kind of work for you, but you might like it better if you could save money by doing some easier projects yourself. Let’s talk about basic brick masonry tools and the kinds of “apprentice-type” projects that you could tackle first.

including masonry restoration

For Brick Work  – One Trowel Will Not Cut It

The masonry trowel is the most basic hand tool that is used in brick or stone work to mix, spread, level, and shape the mortar or concrete used in between your bricks. They come in several shapes and sizes that are designed for different tasks, and also have lots of different names, like brick-, gauging-, or margin-trowels. A great place to learn about how to use the trowel is by watching project-specific clips on YouTube or locating books or ebooks on the use of brick masonry tools by searching the internet or visiting a home improvement store. Having a conversation with a handyman or neighbor who has done a similar project can also help.  

 

Tools Sets for Brickwork Bundle Several Tools at a Discount

So that you don’t incur the expense of buying six or seven tools separately, you will find that many sites like eBay and Amazon offer sets that include every tool a beginner needs to tackle basic repair and rebuilt projects.  These sets will usually include but are not limited to, a few different trowels, a joint raker, line blocks, a convex jointer and a utility brush. You may also need a brick hammer, a rubber mallet, a level, a tape measure, and string line and line pins. Available tool sets are of varying qualities, so be sure to read reviews before you purchase and research how each tool is used before starting your project.

 

These Kinds of Projects Are Best For Beginners

Just so you know the difference, bricklayers lay bricks, while masons lay any combination of stones, cinder blocks, and bricks. You’ll want to start with a simple project that can help you perfect your bricklaying skills.  A simple 4-level brick wall in front of a gardening space is a reasonable beginner’s project. You could also build a larger wall, with no curves to separate two patio spaces. Either way, working with projects that are not lengthy will give you the opportunity to feel accomplished and the ability to critique your work and make changes in your techniques for future projects.

masons lay any combination of stones

For More Complicated Projects You May Want to Hire a Professional

DIY is not always the best answer and can sometimes result in costly demolition and redundant costs for the same repair or rebuild.  Affordable Tuckpointing Pros (http://affordabletuckpointingpros.com/) is a 5 Star-rated company that provides an array of services, including masonry restoration, chimney repairs, tuckpointing for commercial or residential buildings, as well as waterproofing and aesthetic upgrades.  The family-owned business can help provide protection, prevention, and peace of mind to you and your family. Customers say they are reliable, knowledgeable, affordable, accommodating, and clean. Keep them in mind for your more complicated projects that may require permits and inspections.

Tips On How to Repair Brick Steps

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Brick steps are a prized historic features of many front entrances and home patios. Well known for their strength, natural brick steps are highly durable and have amazing curb appeal, making it a choice for many homeowners and builders.

Over the years, wear and tear as well as damage to bricks are likely to occur because of traffic and extreme weather. It is is very important that you keep your brick steps in good repair, and regularly monitor your steps for damage as it can be a safety hazard if someone was to injure themselves or fall. Loose and crumbling bricks aren’t just an eyesore, they can be a tripping hazard for people who visit your home. Unrepaired bricks make the entire platform susceptible to further damage, which can even become severe enough to loosen the entire structure if damaged enough.

Regular visual inspections and preventative maintenance on damaged areas is an easy to way to keep your bricks steps in tip top shape. This may seem like a dreaded task to many, and some may find themselves wondering how to repair brick steps that are damaged or broken. In actuality, replacing missing bricks and repairing steps are relatively easy, with just the right equipment and some free weekend time.

removed the damaged brick

Step 1: Remove Damaged Bricks

Make sure that you put on your safety goggles and gloves before starting any task like this. You’ll want to either carefully remove the loose damaged or crumbling bricks by hand, or gently use a chisel to chip away at the mortar around the loose brick so it can be removed.

Step 2: Clean the Area

Once you have removed the damaged brick, along with all the previous mortar surrounding it, you’ll need a wire brush and water to sweep and clean the debris from the area. You want to ensure that the area is completely free from debris so the new brick and mortar can lay flat and attach properly.

Step 3: Mix Mortar

Now that you’ve cleaned the area its time to mix a batch of the mortar with water according to the directions on the package. Keep in mind that if you make too much excess, you won’t be able to save it because it dries out so quickly.

Using the brick trowel, carefully scoop the mortar into the empty space and smooth it out, creating a ½ inch layer.

top and bottom of your replacement brick

Step 4: Place New Brick

When you’ve created a thin even layer with the mortar, you’ll do the same with the top and bottom of your replacement brick (unless its a top row). Using the trowel again, pack the mortar, adding more as necessary to support all sides of the replacement brick. Carefully wipe away excess mortar with the edge of the trowel.

Sometimes, a brick isn’t completely damaged, and you’ll find it’s more efficient to just repair it. When repairing a broken brick, use the brick trowel and mortar and fill in the crack just as you would fill in a typical brick joint. Make sure that the mortar is even with the rest of the brick and mortar area to ensure a natural finish.

Make sure to let the area dry completely before walking on it and applying pressure, which can take up to a week.

Sign a Wall Needs Brick Masonry Repair

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Whether new or old, brick walls will deteriorate and when that happens, repair is necessary. Brick walls are destroyed by poor construction, harsh weather, and poor maintenance.

If brick masonry repair is not done at the right time, the deterioration of the walls can lead to failure of the structures.

To maintain your brick walls, you need to be able to read the signs that the walls need repair. You can also hire a professional mason to offer routine maintenance on the walls. Heres what you should look out for.

Sign a Wall Needs Brick Masonry Repair

The Masonry Wall Looks Bowed

When bricks absorb moisture, they tend to expand, and this can cause the walls to bow. Clay-fired brick is made of a completely dried kiln, and when it absorbs water, it expands over time.

If the wall is not fitted with the necessary expansion joints, the expansion of the bricks will lead to a considerable pressure on different joints on the wall, especially the corners.

The corners of walls tend to be stiff and therefore the wall bows towards the center, either inwards or outwards.

This expansion is very bothersome at the parapet level as the bricks get exposed to the weather elements from all sides. Bowing can occur on new as well as aged bricks, and this usually shortens the life of a wall.

If you notice this happening, you need to call a mason who will tuck-point an expansion joint. It is that simple.

White Powdery Substance on Bricks

When bricks absorb excessive moisture over a long time, they tend to have a white substance covering their surfaces; a condition referred to as efflorescence. This shows that the bricks have not had enough drying up.

The condition can be caused by drainage cavities being clogged by mortar or debris.

If there are leaking pipes in the plumbing system, the condition can also occur. Usually, you need to call a plumber who then inspects your system to identify where the problem is.

If the drainage cavities are clogged, they will unclog them, and if there is a problem with your plumbing system, a plumber will help.

It is advisable to consult a mason before a large section of the wall becomes white. This can weaken the walls.

Cracks in the Walls

Cracks are common indications that a wall needs repair. Cracking usually happens when the shelf angles deteriorate. The shelf angles can weaken when exposed to excessive moisture or when the brick walls expand.

Left unattended, cracking on brick walls can result to a more serious problem. The brick wall can come apart abruptly thanks to the pressure placed on specific points on the building.

Seek brick masonry repair the moment you notice the slightest cracks in the walls to prevent the condition from deteriorating further and leading to more serious problems.

masonry wall repair services near you

Other Signs

If the mortar joints have started peeling off and are missing in different sections of the walls, get a masonry expert to repair them.

When the mortar joints are weak, they weaken the whole wall. The good news is, the mortar joints are easy to repair.

When you see these signs, give your brick wall the attention it needs. It is better to repair them early rather than have to rebuild an entire wall or structure.

Classification of Different Types of Bricks

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Bricks are used for several reasons – especially for the construction of buildings and pavements globally. Bricks are usually placed lying flat and bonded so as to form a structure that increases its strength and stability.

There are different types of bricks that are used for masonry work with most of them being four inches thick and eight inches long.

But in order for you to understand masonry work, it’s important that you get to know the types of bricks that are out there. The main factors that differentiate bricks are their making process, quality, their use and raw material.

Mаѕоnrу Crасk Rераіr - Brick Repair Procedure

Classification Based on Quality

The quality of a brick is usually classified into three:

First Class Brick

The raw materials used to make first class bricks are high quality with uniform color. They have a regular shape and size and absorb less than 20 percent of water of its own weight when dry. The crushing strength of a first class brick is 105 kg/cm2.

Second Class Brick

This type of brick can slightly be over burned with the size and shape differing from the standard. These bricks absorb less than 22 percent of water of its own dry weight when plunged into fresh water. Moreover, its crushing strength is above 70 kg/cm2.

Third Class Bricks

Absorbing less than 25 percent of water of its own dry weight when submerged into fresh water, they aren’t uniform in both shape and size. Their crushing strength is above 30 kg/cm2.

Classification Based on Raw Material

Bricks can be classified depending on the raw materials used such as:

Burnt Clay Brick

Most widely used brick for construction, burnt clay bricks are usually made from burnt clay.

Fly Ash Clay Brick

Fly ash clay brick is made from a mix of fly ash and that for producing brick.

Concrete Brick

Also referred to as motor brick, concrete brick is made from cement and sand is mostly used in the construction of pavements.

Sand Lime Brick

In this type of brick, lime is used instead of cement mixed with sand to come up with the brick.

Fire Brick

Just from the names, fire bricks are made using fire clay. They are able to tolerate high temperatures without cracking or getting distorted making them the best to use around fireplaces.

Difference Between Mortar vs. Concrete; Let's Explore

Classification of Bricks Based on Purpose

There are two main factors that determine the use of bricks:

Engineering Bricks

Engineering bricks are burned under extreme high temperatures so as to enable them to become a dense and strong product. These bricks have high damp-proof capabilities and great load bearing capacity.

Common Bricks

Common bricks have no special requirements and are used for general purposes. Since they have no special requirements, it’s important to plaster walls made from these types of bricks.

Choosing Your Brick

As mentioned, there are different ways that bricks are classified. Most times, bricks are bought depending on the masonry work needed.

As such, the first step in choosing a brick is in identifying what you need done. We hope that our guide has helped you choose the right brick for your masonry work.

How to Make Mortar for Tuckpointing

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With years, the mortar joints on the walls of your house start to deteriorate, and they make the walls look unsightly. Luckily, you don’t have to live with unsightly walls when this happens. Getting your house a fresh coat of mortar, a process referred to as tuckpointing, is easy with a few handy skills.

If you have the time and tools, you can remove the old mortar, clean the joints, make new mortar and work it on the joints.

You then need to work on the joints and clean them to make them look good. Learn more below.

How to Make Mortar for Tuckpointing

Preparations for Tuckpointing

In most cases, a mason or someone with experience should do tuckpointing seeing that it is a labor-intensive task. Before the procedure begins, the joints need to be assessed to determine the extent of the damage.

At times, only a few joints need reparation, but in some instances, the whole outer wall needs to be repaired.

During the assessment, the professional or you, if you’ll be attempting a DIY, will determine whether the whole structure needs cleaning based on the condition and age of the joints.

A power drill will make the process of cleaning easier, but in its absence, you can use a chisel.

After removing the mortar, use a brush to clean out the joints to get them ready for the fresh mortar.

Water the joints after cleaning them and leave them for a few hours before applying the mortar.

Making and Working Mortar

Learn how to make mortar by first choosing the right mortar. The mortar should be created to have the consistency of peanut butter.

You can tell that your mortar is ready if you place it on your trowel and hold the trowel at 45 degrees and the mortar does not fall.

The mortar will last for up to one hour, but you need to keep adding water to ensure it is workable.

To apply the mortar, place it on your trowel and hold it close to the joints. Use a tuck pointer to press the mortar into the joints ensuring that the mortar fits perfectly. Remember to wet the joints again before applying the mortar.

Immediately after applying the mortar, use a jointer along the horizontal and vertical joints to tool them. This should make them look great.

Cleaning and Watering the Joints

You need to keep the joints cleaned after you have worked them and then keep them watered for a few days. This ensures that the stones do not suck water from the mortar.

A professional will know the right mortar to use based on the mortar that was on the walls originally.

You can use dye in your mortar, which should be mixed before water is added. Dyed and normal mortar are both taken care of the same way.

Tuckpointing Tips How to Make Mortar

Tuckpoint Today

Tuckpointing is easy when done by a professional or with the guidance of a professional as mistakes are avoided.

Nevertheless, you can do it yourself. You only need to learn how to make mortar and apply it on already cleaned joints.

If you have the needed tools, the process will be easy. Either way, old mortar joints need to be remade to enhance the condition of your walls.

Mortar Masonry and What You Need to Know to Do the Job Right

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Mortar masonry is, pardon the simplicity, is what keeps brick and stone structures together. It’s supremely essential and has been for as long as humans have been using stone (and later) bricks to build houses and such.

While the mixture is also simple, it takes a precise amount of materials to make the mixture strong enough to adhere to form sturdy buildings and the like.

And mortar masonry is the essence of an industry of professionals because it goes beyond just the right mix, but knowing how to repair and work with mortar isn’t something to be taken lightly. It’s not an easy do-it-yourself project, though many folks nowadays try to do so at their peril.

Mortar masonry is best left to these professionals because an amateur effort can result in devastating results that could end up costing you more than if you would have hired masonry pros, to begin with.

Mortar Masonry and What You Need to Know to Do the Job Right

What Is Mortar Mix and What Are Tips for Working With Mortar?

So what is mortar mix? It’s a mixture of materials sand, water, and cement in various yet precise amounts that when combined allow building professionals to build houses, chimneys, sidewalks, etc.

Masonry professionals need to be proficient at working with mortar, making mortar, and removing and repairing old and worn out mortar. It’s a difficult, dirty job, but a necessary one since brick houses are popular as are other brick and stone structures.

Some tips for working with mortar include things such as the use of dyes to change the color, using chemical plasticizers (or mortar cement) to improve the workability of the mortar.

Before using the sand in the mixture, it’s wise to keep it as dry as possible, so if you use sand that’s been uncovered for a time, it can absorb water, which can change the water level in the mortar mix.

When mixing mortar, mix it for more than three minutes but not more than five minutes. Also, when using fresh cement, use unopened bags because opened bags can absorb humidity that can affect the water levels you are using.

The life expectancy of mortar (once mixed) is generally an hour and a half, any longer than that, it’s good to toss it and make more.

The most recommended cement to use is Portland cement.

What Are the Types of Mortar Available?

This is the technical part of this article as we list the specific types of mortar used today. Types of mortar include:

Type M mortar: the highest strength available as its compressed strength is 2,500 pounds per square inch (psi). Normally used with stone.

Type S mortar: this is a medium-strength mortar (1,800 psi). Generally used with exterior projects such as patios.

Type N mortar: the most commonly used mortar (750 psi). It’s the best type of all-around mortar in use.

What Is Mortar Masonry, and How Do You Mix It

How to Mix Mortar

Need to know how to mix mortar? The basic mix for mortar is three parts sand for every one part of the type of cement you want to use. For an essential blend, start with three gallons of water.

Keep in mind, the drier the mix, the stronger the mortar, yet a wetter mix is the easiest to work with. If you don’t have experience with this type of masonry, it’s difficult to explain the perfect consistency.

How Much Do Bricks Cost?

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The cost of bricks varies drastically depending on the project at hand. Some projects are much more extensive than others. Planning for projects, therefore, requires advance knowledge of what is needed or not.

This helps in supplying the necessary items in the required quantities, and putting up the project. It also keeps you within your brick budget and the timeframe of the project.

Eventually, how much bricks cost for your project will depend on a number of factors as articulated below.

How Much Do Bricks Cost

Type Of Bricks

Materials associated with your brick construction project consist of one factor determining how much your brick costs will be. There are two types of bricks out there, hollow bricks, and traditional bricks. Hollow bricks can be as much as twice the cost of traditional bricks.

If your construction project is relatively small, traditional bricks will work just fine, giving you a smaller brick bill.

Hollow bricks are made of durable outer shells with hollow centers. Should your building project involve a big structure, reinforcement gives hollow bricks stability. This makes them the recommended choice.

Hollow bricks allow easier steel bar insertions right through the inside of the bricks. This is what gives the hollow bricks construction projects reinforcement, stability, and a higher cost.

Who Is Making The Purchase?

Your project will be better if you hire a mason to install your bricks.

Costs will differ if you compare buying the bricks yourself to letting your mason make the purchase. This is because professionalism includes an intimate understanding of the brick market and quality.

The mason will bring specialized talent that comes from experience and background knowledge in working with bricks. This professionalism constitutes an additional brick cost.

The implication is that when putting up a brick wall, for example, brick costs will vary once you compare putting up the wall yourself to shelling out Mansory fees.

In addition, the final brick cost will end up more or less than your estimate depending on your brick supplier or your Manson’s.

How Do Bricks Costs Compare To Other Construction Materials

Bricks feature as the most durable construction materials in the market. Due to this durability, people have a tendency to overestimate how much a brick construction would cost.

Thankfully, bricks compare well with other construction materials.

Fiber and vinyl cement tend to have a lower cost compared to bricks. Conversely, synthetic stucco, manufactured and cultured stone, and real stone come at a higher cost compared to bricks.

Bricks cost about four percent more than fiber cement and seven percent more than vinyl. Conversely, when you compare various other types of stone to bricks, bricks cost up to twenty percent less.

Factors That Determine How Much Bricks Cost

Keep All Factors Under Consideration

The way to finding out how much your construction bricks will cost is through considering several factors. These are their durability as well as the cost and effort of maintenance.

Note also that the supplier of the bricks might also influence the price. Therefore, compare the prices offered by different suppliers before you buy.

Repointing Brick: A Job That Must Be Done Right the First Time

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Let’s get this straight right off the bat: when it comes to repointing brick, the job must be done right the first time, because shoddy brickwork (or pointing, tuckpointing) will lead to potential breakdowns that can spell doom for your chimney or other brick structures.

It’s the type of work better left to the professionals who handle this type of thing every day. Do it yourself tuckpointing is possible, but you really have to have high confidence in your repointing brick abilities to perform the much-needed work successfully.

We’ll attempt to explain what is brick pointing, how do it yourself tuckpointing is done, and the average cost of repointing brick. This will provide you with the basics necessary to make the best decision for your chimney, brick structure or home.

Repointing Brick A Job That Must Be Done Right the First Time

You Asked: What Is Brick Pointing?

So let’s do some explaining first, what is brick pointing? Also called tuckpointing, brick pointing is the mortar (or “stuff”) between the bricks that holds it all together. This mortar is made out of a mixture of cement and sand. On average, mortar can last on average around 45-50 years, yet some can last up to 100 years.

Variables such as weather and general wear and tear can affect how long and how well the mortar does its job can vary, sometimes vary wildly.

So when your mortar or pointing needs to be repaired or replaced, to do so requires a professionals skill level. Minor jobs on small structures may be able to be done at a do-it-yourself level, but in general, you want experts performing this essential task.

Do It Yourself Tuckpointing, Can It Be Done With Confidence?

So, you want to try to do it yourself tuckpointing? OK, we don’t have enough space to provide you with a detailed step-by-step list of instructions, but we’ll give you an overview.

Again, depending upon your level of confidence in your skills depends upon whether you should hire a pro or not. Still, we’ll provide you with the basics on how to perform do it yourself tuckpointing on your brickwork.

You’ll need the following tools: an angle grinder, a brick trowel, a tuck pointer, bucket, safety glasses, dust mask, cold chisel, hammer, hammer drill, hearing protection of some sort. Also, you’ll need some mortar mix, mortar dye, muriatic acid.

The steps involved include grinding out the joints (old mortar), knocking out the mortar, clean out the mortar, mix the new, replacement mortar, work the mortar into the joints, tool the joints, and clean the bricks.

Those are the basic do-it-yourself steps and tools and materials you’ll need to perform the do it yourself tuckpointing job.

When It's Time for Repointing Brick Shoddy Work Spells Doom

What Is the Average Cost of Repointing Brick?

When it comes to the average cost of repointing brick, many things depend on the actual cost you will spend. It depends on where you live, the size of the project, and whether or not you use high-end materials for your project. Also, it depends on whether you use a professional or do it yourself.

The average nationwide cost of repairing brickwork is about $1,300. The cheap range is about $300, high end close to $4,000.

For comparison’s sake, the average cost of repairing brickwork on a chimney is between $750-$1,000.

Difference Between Mortar vs. Concrete; Let’s Explore

By / Masonry, Tuckpoint Mortar / Comments Off on Difference Between Mortar vs. Concrete; Let’s Explore

When you hear words like cement, concrete, and mortar, many folks will use them interchangeably. Which is inaccurate, because there is a difference between mortar vs. concrete, so let’s investigate these differences.

The best way to describe the difference between mortar vs. concrete is this: mortar is used with other building materials to hold them together, such as brick pointing, while concrete can be used as a stand-alone building material. They each utilize similar elements needed to mix together to make them.

Digging a little deeper into the difference between mortar vs. concrete is while they each use a mixture of cement, sand, and water, the ratio is different. And with concrete, other elements like gravel or pieces of rocks are used to add strength and durability.

Difference Between Mortar vs. Concrete; Let's Explore

What Is Mortar for Bricks and What Is Concrete?

So what is mortar?

Mortar is a viscous (or thick) mixture of sand, water, and cement. Cement is a binding element (not a stand-alone component, a common misconception) is made with a combination of calcium, silicon, limestone, aluminum, gypsum, and other items. The mixture is heated, and when water is added, it’ll harden.

And tuckpointing companies use mortar as a material to hold together building materials like stone and brick. The ratio of water to cement is much higher for mortar than it is for concrete.

Now, what is concrete? Well, it’s not the same as cement, as those two terms are commonly used interchangeably.

Concrete is made of an aggregate mix of gravel or sand as well as cement and water. What makes it more durable and stronger than mortar is the ratio of materials along with the addition of materials such as pieces of rocks and gravel.

Concrete uses less water and an aggregate mix anywhere from 60-80%. Concrete is less viscous than mortar. When used as a building material, it’s solid and durable, but it makes a weak bonding element, which is why mortar is used instead.

How to Mix Cement and Sand and Water for Mortar

If you need to know a general way of how to mix cement and sand and water for a strong mortar mix, learning the ratio of materials used is the real key.

The best tuckpointing pros in the Chicago area do this, and they will most likely use a ratio of one part cement (masonry cement is the best) and three parts sand. The water is proportionate to the dry mix. The average size of a dry mortar mix is about 80 pounds, and you’d use three gallons of water for that.

Mortar vs. Concrete Let's Explore Differences and Uses

In the Chicago Area, Go With the Tuckpointing Pros

Know that you’re a little more enlightened about some of the materials used in construction, make sure that when you need a company to perform services to build or repair mortar or concrete, turn to a reliable and trusted company with the knowledge and experience or tuckpointing or brickwork for your Chicago area home.

Contact us anytime and we’ll be glad to provide the most excellent tuckpointing services in the region. All of our contractors are licensed, bonded, insured and experts in all things tuckpointing.

Mаѕоnrу Crасk Rераіr – Brick Repair Procedure

By / Masonry, Tuckpoint Mortar / Comments Off on Mаѕоnrу Crасk Rераіr – Brick Repair Procedure

♦ Wе remove thе dаmаgеd mоrtаr (approximately ¾ inch dеер) wіth a dіаmоnd ѕаw and rіnѕе аwау thе duѕt. Both of these actions аrе required tо ensure рrореr bоndіng of the nеw mortar. The depth and bоndіng are integral to fullу rераіrіng thе crack. Shаllоwеr cuts only mask the undеrlуіng сrасk.

♦ After thе сrасkѕ hаvе bееn рrореrlу рrераrеd, we uѕе our power іnjесtіоn system to еnѕurе thаt оur Cuѕtоm Color Mаtсhеd Mоrtаr fіllѕ аll voids соmрlеtеlу.

♦ All nеw mortar joints аrе then tooled and bruѕhеd clean.

♦ When nесеѕѕаrу, wе clean rераіrеd ѕurfасеѕ using a ѕоlutіоn ѕресіfісаllу fоrmulаtеd fоr masonry.

Mаѕоnrу Crасk Rераіr - Brick Repair Procedure

Broken Brісk Rерlасеmеnt

♦ Some аrеаѕ may requіrе thаt оnе or mоrе bricks be ѕhіftеd to brіng thеm bасk іntо рrореr alignment аnd spacing. Broken brick іѕ rеmоvеd аnd rерlасеd with nеw brick. Brісk alignment аnd rерlасеmеnt іѕ an іmроrtаnt раrt оf оur service. If wаllѕ rеmаіn оut of alignment, аll rераіrѕ will be оbvіоuѕ.

♦ We warehouse a lаrgе іnvеntоrу оf dіѕсоntіnuеd and rесусlеd bricks tо еnѕurе thаt wе саn locate thе рrореr brick mаtсh tо thе оrіgіnаl brick оn уоur home as nееdеd. It іѕ always bеѕt іf you hаvе replacement brісkѕ that hаvе been аblе tо аgе with the hоuѕе аnd be exposed to the same еlеmеntѕ. Nеw bricks аrе sometimes сlеаnеr thаn thоѕе аrоund уоur hоmе.

♦ Oссаѕіоnаllу, wе mау nоt hаvе аn exact brісk mаtсh fоr уоur brісk but we hаvе ассеѕѕ tо suppliers across the US аnd саn uѕuаllу fіnd a brick mаtсh. In thе rаrе саѕе whеn nо brісk mаtсh іѕ available, we uѕе a рrосеѕѕ thаt rераіrѕ уоur brоkеn brісk tо іtѕ original look and integrity.

Sometimes іn Brick Rераіr/mаѕоnrу repair, it is nесеѕѕаrу tо tеаr оut аnd rе-lау sections оf brісk walls оr arches that mау requіrе mоrе knоwlеdgе thаn ѕіmрlе brісk/mаѕоnrу repair practices.

Everything You Need to Know About Brick Rераіr Prосеdurе

Brісk Mortar

Thе mоrtаr thаt wе uѕе is vеrу important tо gеttіng thе brісk repair done rіght. Mаnу соmраnіеѕ use misguided practices оf mixing уоur mоrtаr tо mаtсh. They mіx ѕmаll аmоuntѕ оf mortar and аdjuѕt the соlоr between grey аnd white bу uѕіng ѕmаll роrtіоnѕ оf tуре N masonry mixes.

All расkаgеѕ оf mаѕоnrу mіx аrе рrе-рrороrtіоnеd to have аn exact rаtіо реr thе vоlumе of mix, аnd thеу аll require thе full package uѕе to keep thіѕ rаtіо.

When thіѕ rаtіо іѕ altered, it сhаngеѕ thе mortar tуре and crushing рrеѕѕurе оf thе mоrtаr. This wіll аlѕо сhаngе the performance оf the mоrtаr аnd аffесt thе mоrtаr’ѕ ability tо bоnd іntо the wаll.

Wе use AMR Labs tо tеѕt ѕаmрlеѕ оf уоur mоrtаr аnd mаtсh іt соmрlеtеlу. This mаtсh іnсludеѕ thе mоrtаr соlоr, mоrtаr tуре, and сruѕhіng рrеѕѕurе, аnd thе соlоr аnd gradation of thе аggrеgаtе uѕеd. Frоm thіѕ іnfоrmаtіоn, аn еxасt mortar formula is рrоduсеd tо mаtсh уоur mоrtаr, аnd pre-matched mоrtаrѕ аrе рrоduсеd fоr your repairs.

Sоmеtіmеѕ, thеѕе mortars are manufactured on-site, but thе formula іѕ fоllоwеd exactly.

AMR Pre-Matched and Tuсkроіnt mоrtаrѕ аrе the оnlу mоrtаrѕ аvаіlаblе that соmе іn thеѕе ѕmаllеr bags аnd various соlоr tones аnd аrе mаdе ѕресіfісаllу fоr brісk mortar rераіr.

Learn All About Masonry Grout Bags Before Utilizing Them

By / Masonry, Tuckpoint Mortar / Comments Off on Learn All About Masonry Grout Bags Before Utilizing Them

A masonry grout bag is an integral tool when it comes to tuckpointing or masonry work.

It’s used to help masonry workers spread grout efficiently when performing brickwork or tuckpointing.

A masonry grout bag kind of looks like a bag used by pastry chefs when making makes.

It resembles a bag used when icing. The difference is a masonry grout bag certainly doesn’t use a material as sweet as icing!. Instead, grout is utilized. Grout or mortar is a paste-like mortar (the concrete mixture of sand, cement, and water), very thick and coarse that is used primarily to fill gaps and crevices when laying tile or doing brickwork or tuck pointing.

The masonry grout bags are generally made out of plastic, and typically measure about 12 inches by 24 inches. The plastic needs to be thicker than regular plastic, yet still flexible enough to manipulate when using. Ideally, the plastic should be seamless, and vinyl is an excellent alternative to plastic.

Some masonry grout bags are made with an option to add a metal or plastic tip (usually 3/8 inch, but other sizes are certainly available).

Learn All About Masonry Grout Bags Before Utilizing Them

How Do You Use a Grout Bag for Mortar?

When it comes to knowing how do you use a grout bag for mortar, the first thing you need to do is mix the mortar. The ideal mix is of mortar is two parts cement, one part sand, and water. It needs to be loose.

Also, don’t fill the bag completely. Always fill it about half full and mix it continuously. As mentioned previously, some bags come with the ability to attach a tip, if not and the plastic is thick enough, you can cut the tip as desired.

Once your masonry grout bag is ready and filled with mortar, it’s ready to use.

Squeeze the bag from the top and squeeze it slow and easy to get the desired amount coming out for the job at hand.

Wanna Learn How to Make Your Own Grout Bag? Read On

Now that you know what a masonry grout bag looks like, you can learn how to make your own grout bag. It’s quite simple.

Find a durable and thick heavy duty plastic. You need to cut out the plastic in a triangular or cylinder shape. You can use duct tape to piece it together. The size should be about 12 inches by 24 inches.

Once you have the shape of it completed and duct taped together, cut out a tip. The tip is usually about 3/8 inches or 1/2 inches, but it really depends on the width you desire for the project you’re working on. It must pass through smooth and easy.

What Is a Masonry Grout Bag and How Do You Use Them

What Are Disposable Grout Bags and Are They Beneficial?

There are disposable grout bags or permanent plastic or vinyl grout bags that can be fitted with disposable lines.

The disposable grout bags or disposable lines are made of a thinner plastic, yet still, some of them come with the ability to use a metal tip of various sizes.

How Do You Define Masonry and the Types of Masonry Practiced Today

By / Home Improvement, Masonry, Services / Comments Off on How Do You Define Masonry and the Types of Masonry Practiced Today

When asked to define masonry, the simple response is that it is stonework, or when it comes to building, it’s structures bound by mortar with the use of stone, brick, marble, travertine, granite, concrete blocks, limestone, adobe, and glass blocks.

It’s considered to be extraordinarily durable yet depends heavily on the quality of materials and of course the skill of the top masonry contractors to do the job right.

There are many different types of masonry being practiced in building construction today as there are many different types of masonry materials used in the construction process by the top masonry contractors.

So now that you know how to define masonry and the varying styles let’s take a gander at the types of masonry.

types of masonry

What Are the Different Types of Masonry Used in Construction Today?

There are various types of masonry walls used in building construction nowadays. The two main kinds of masonry that most top masonry contractors use is solid masonry and veneer masonry.

Solid masonry is where the whole bricks or materials (stone, bricks, marble, granite, etc.) are used in the construction and is considered the sturdier choice. Whereas veneer masonry is mainly an aesthetic choice where an outer layer of the chosen materials (the bricks or stone) is attached to a less sturdy material like wood.

Brick masonry is by far the most popular choice because of its durability and the fact it just looks fantastic. But concrete blocks and stone masonry are also popular choices.

What Are Some Types of Masonry Materials Available?

There are many different types of masonry materials that go into masonry building construction.

The primary building materials are bricks, stone, stucco, and concrete. The orientations of these materials are various as the sizes depend on the type of construction.

The bonding agents are mortar, veneer mortar, grout, cement, aggregate (sand gravel), concrete, and rebar (reinforced bars).

A couple of different types of trowels are used such as the square-notch trowel and the margin trowel. Also used are masons hammers, mashing hammers, blocking chisels, masonry power saws, mason’s lines, steel squares, levels, chalk lines, jointers, brushes, and mixing tools.

types of masonry materials

Search for High-Quality, Top Masonry Contractors

When it comes to the actual construction itself, make sure to look for high-quality, top masonry contractions and do your homework.

Punch in a keyword search such as “top masonry contractors near me” in your favorite web browser and peruse the list of available links.

Also be diligent and check the credentials of the company, client testimonials, ask around neighbors and folks you trust.

Should hire a company that continually trains its contractors on the latest techniques in masonry and that each contractor is licensed, insured, bonded, and certified. The company should get a thumbs up from the Better Business Bureau and be well respected within the construction community.

You should also compare different companies and their price lists. Keep a bullet-point list of pros and cons and never be afraid to ask questions. Also, make sure they offer free consultations and are fair with their quotes as far as price and time to complete the project.

Amazing Tuckpointing Chicago Angie’s List Canidates!

By / Masonry, Tuckpointing / Comments Off on Amazing Tuckpointing Chicago Angie’s List Canidates!

When it comes to hiring contractors for your masonry jobs, checking the reviews for the company you plan to use is an absolute must. No one wants to use a service that others have hated, so it is more than crucial to ensure that your money won’t be wasted on a bad job by making sure you are hiring a reputable company to service you.

Bug how can you find these Tuckpointing companies in the first place?

Amazing Tuckpointing Chicago Angie's List Canidates

Learn About The Best Tuckpointing Chicago Has To Offer!

The masonry involved in professional Tuckpointing isn’t something that an everyday laborer can accomplish. When repairing and sprucing up the brick and mortar on your house, it is important to express caution, unless you wish for your house to be less secure.

Tuck pointing needs to be done by an experienced professional. While it may seem like something you can do yourself, the process is very laborious and potentially dangerous if you have a tall home. So always be sure to call an expert to do the job.

Nearby Tuckpointing Experts Shouldn’t Be Hard To Find

Finding an expert is the next step towards your brick home dreams. It may be easy to just go online and find someone who can do the job, but unless they are verified and are heavily reviewed, you may get someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing and will end up doing more harm to your house than good.

Always check credentials and make sure the person you are planning to hire is one of the good contractors with amazing reviews, so that way you don’t have to hire another person to clean up the mess or fix what went wrong.

Don’t let someone inexperienced and unprofessional do your Tuckpointing, always be sure to find a trustworthy company with experience and reviews to back their promises.

We Are Verified On Angie’s List!

We are tuck pointing pros who are dedicated to making your brick and mortar house look brand new. We are an affordable contractor that promises to complete the job swiftly, professionally, and without worry of damage that can be caused by inexperience or negligence.

If you don’t believe us, check us out on Angie’s List. We are verified and reviewed there so you can make sure that your home gets the attention and care it deserves, without completely breaking your budget. We offer fair prices at market value and professional service and respect comes free with every job done.

The Best Tuckpointing Chicago Angie's List Approves Of

Contact Us Today For A Free Estimate!

So what are you waiting for? Pick up the phone or go online today to learn more about our services and find out exactly how we can use our contracting skills to make sure your house is clean looking and sturdy.

We are backed by our satisfaction guarantee, which you can ask us about when you contact us for your free consultation and a super quote. We have been serving the Chicago, Illinois area for years, so you can know you’re choosing a fully professional business to complete your job. Don’t wait, if you need a Tuckpointing job, call or click today!

Find Out About The Best Tuckpointing Services Chicago Has To Offer!

By / Masonry, Tuckpointing / Comments Off on Find Out About The Best Tuckpointing Services Chicago Has To Offer!

Owning a brick house can be a beautiful thing. Brick Chicagoland homes are very sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, giving a more refined and cultured look to any property. Many brick homes are featured in real estate magazines as being some of the most coveted, and property values for brick homes can be some of the highest.

However, the beauty comes at a price. With the brick and mortar exterior, there is a 100% chance at the end of the day, mortar on your chimney tends to deteriorate, discolor, and crumble, causing your Chicago home to look run down and the structure of your home to come into question. That is where tuckpointing (or tuck pointing) services can help!

Find Out About The Best Tuckpointing Services Chicago Has To Offer

Are You Interested In Tuckpointing In The Chicago Area?

When it comes to masonry or tuckpointing repair on your home or chimney, it is essential to get to it in the early years of owning your home rather than later. The process contractors go to when tuck pointing and working on the restoration of your stone or brick home isn’t super complicated, and a good contractor can do the brickwork with ease.

Licensed construction professionals with good reviews are great at providing quality replacement joints and mortar for your residential or company property, and many are accredited with significant experience in both the suburbs and local city.

Call someone who knows about tuckpointing in the Chicago area to have them provide a look and give you offers on what the repair cost would look like.

Finding Good Tuckpointing Services Near You Should Be Easy!

If tuckpointing is so great for your home, why doesn’t everyone do it? Well, the chances are they haven’t found a right contractor who knows tuckpointing in the Chicago area that can do the job well enough to satisfy their needs. A lot of contractors claim to do masonry work, but in reality, not everyone has the finesse and tools required for a good job.

When choosing a professional to trust with your tuckpointing services job, make sure to look for a lot of reviews to make sure they’re reputable and can do the job right, without needing to do it twice or make touch-ups later.

We Are The Best Tuckpointing Chicago Has To Offer!

Lucky for you, we have a solution! We are the best tuckpointing services Chicagoland has to offer, and we have the reviews to prove it! Our customers always end up satisfied with our work, and we are trusted across Chicago to get the brickwork or masonry job done right the first time, eliminating the need for follow up within the first year.

It’s clear who your choice should be, but if you have doubts feel free to look us up and do research online, and ask us any questions you may have about our licensed restoration services and what we can provide to you.

Best Tuckpointing Services Chicago

Contact Us Today To Completely Restore Your Home’s Beauty!

So the next time you look at your house (or chimney) and wonder what beauty lies underneath years of dust and decay, call or click to visit our website and learn more about our services and what we have to offer when it comes to giving you the best masonry restoration services available.

Our operators are standing by to answer your calls and schedule a consultation so we can figure out what services would be best for your particular home. So don’t wait, call or click today for more information.

The Best Chimney Repair Chicago Services

By / Chimney, Masonry, Services / Comments Off on The Best Chimney Repair Chicago Services

Guarantee Great Results with the Best Chimney Repair Chicago Service Providers

Chimney repairs are some of the more complicated repair work to be done on your Chicago home masonry work.

If you ever encounter issues or major problems, call Affordable Tuckpointing Pros LLC for an instant consult and home inspection. We are the most excellent, yet incredibly affordable, chimney repair Chicago experts; home to the most highly-trained and skilled diagnostics specialists and technicians.

Do not hesitate to give us a call: (630) 833-3665 at Affordable Tuckpointing, to report anything amiss in the functioning of your chimney, which may be a result of some issues that impede the fluidity of the outflow of smoke.

Although smokestack repairs may be about masonry work, the obstruction or blockage, or the accumulation of creosote along the lining, this article will particularly review the repairs and restorations that involve your chimney cap, crown, and liner. Read on to learn more about how the most skilled repair professionals in Chicago, who will go about repairing your chimney, should the need for repairs arise.

The Best Chimney Repair Chicago Services

Chimney Cap Repairs

Caps serve the purpose of preventing large debris or animals from causing obstruction or blockage.

Chimney caps are generally metal, such as copper or stainless steel. Durable as they may be, these covers are still prone to damage, particularly considering the way in which they function. Metal caps can crack, tear, and shrink due to high temperature, and become dented or have their screws loosen, also because of too much heat.

In such cases, your cover may still be salvageable, if it is only slight dents and loose screws that we are dealing with. Otherwise, if the damages are too extensive for it to be serviceable, then replacement could be the ultimate solution.

Chimney Crown Repairs

Not to be confused with the cap, which is a separate entity, independent of the chimney itself and only as an appendage to the masonry structure of the smokestack, the chimney crown is permanently attached to the chimney brickwork that is visible atop your house. It requires the same attention and care as any other stonework, as it also suffers from damages in the same way that a concrete foundation or patio stonework will.

In the event of breakage or cracking in the masonry work of your crown, sealing or complete replacement are your two most common options.

Best Chimney Repair Chicago Service

Chimney Lining Repairs

Chimney lining, or flue lining, is also part of the masonry work, which is installed on the inside of the entire length of the smokestack. Its function is to contain the combustion as extremely high temperature passes through it and pushes the smoke outward to the outside.

Constant inspection is key to keeping the lining in good condition, especially since it is not visible on the outside. Your chimney may appear faultless, but it is already failing in functioning within its flue lining. There is no other way to repair a flue lining but with relining.

Every single one of our repairs is done base on the National Fire Protection Association’s 211 Standards for chimney repair Chicago. With the use of standard techniques and safety procedures, we ensure that every job is concluded to your utmost satisfaction, all of the time. Our highly-trained chimney diagnostics experts will assess your chimney sufficiently so that we can fix your problems for good.

Masonry Adhesive: When Is A Good Time To Use It?

By / Masonry, Repair / Comments Off on Masonry Adhesive: When Is A Good Time To Use It?

With the days of modern technology upon us, it’s a no brainer that multiple industries have developed products to help propel them to the future. Every industry imaginable now has safer regulations, better tools, and more advanced materials that make the finished product more advanced, durable, and look better.

While this may be a great thing in some regards, it is good to know that some of those do it yourself instant products have some drawbacks on top of their positive uses. While they are generally amazing to use and convenient for even the everyday person, keeping aware of when and how you can safely use them is important for understanding the way of the modern world.

One of these products is masonry adhesive. This adhesive dries quick and can attach brick and other materials to its place, drying in just a few hours and keeping something strong and together.

It is a wonder of modern technology that allows for people to do minor fixes on their home or some small projects without having to go through the hassle of working with mortar, which can take days to dry and can be hard to work with and make look good if you aren’t experienced in masonry yourself.

Masonry Adhesive When Is A Good Time To Use It

The Pros And Cons Of Masonry Adhesive

While masonry adhesive sounds like a good thing, almost replacing mortar, it is not a full replacement for mortar. Masonry adhesive is strong, but not as strong as dried mortar.

It is intended as a quick fix or adhesive for something that will not be under constant weight and stress, because if you use it on structures that need something strong, you might find it not working as well as the mortar you should have used, leaving you needing costly repairs more than you should.

However, if you have a brick come loose or wish to adhere something to the ground or something small to the exterior of your house, or just want to make sure something small stays in place, masonry adhesive is an amazing tool that can help you reduce the need to use mortar.

With small projects like these masonry adhesive is a godsend, allowing you to do minor repairs yourself and increasing the longevity of your house without having to call someone for costly repairs over a simple loose brick or loose tile.

The Pros And Cons Of Masonry Adhesive

For larger jobs, though, be sure to count on us. We are the best professionals when it comes to tuckpointing and brick work that can help you keep your house longer and make sure it doesn’t crumble or crack over time.

We are experienced workers who can handle any job you may have, and are willing at any time to discuss your problem and come up with a way for us to help you fix it. If this sounds like a good deal for you, feel free to give us a call or send us an email at any time, and we will get back to you shortly to start your home improvement project.

How To Build A Wall: A Step By Step Guide From Affordable Tuck Pointing Pros

By / Home Improvement, Masonry / Comments Off on How To Build A Wall: A Step By Step Guide From Affordable Tuck Pointing Pros

Congrats on beginning your home building or home improvement project! Nothing is more exciting than undertaking the task of building a home or an addition yourself, and we are happy to hear that you are beginning the steps needed to renovate or build your home yourself.

It will be a learning experience, a lot of work, and require a lot of elbow grease, but all in all it will end with a result that is completely your own that you can pass down through the generations.

However, it can be really hard to figure out how to do it on your own. Building things such as walls can be tricky and potentially dangerous if not done correctly, which is why many people hire contractors to do it for them.

Hiring a good contractor can help you save time and energy, and minimize the risk of injury from the construction. If you do want to do it yourself, you’re in luck! Below we have a general guide on what you’ll need to do when you build your own walls for your home improvement or building project.

How To Build A Wall A Step By Step Guide From Affordable Tuck Pointing Pros

How To Build A Wall: The Guide

The first step to building any wall is to lay out the lumber that makes up the frame. This is especially good to do on the floor, since you will have freedom to move it around as you hammer the pieces together with nails.

The next step you will have to take when making your own wall is to mark on the ground up to the wall it will be attached to where the wall will be. This can be done many ways, with chalk or any other marking utensil, and helps you know exactly where to attach the wall in a way that will make it easily connectable to any other wall you might be adding to it.

When making a room, it is important to measure out exactly how far each wall needs to be away from each other, or else you could end up with an uneven room or extra wall on a side.

Lastly, you need to attach the wall to the floor and connecting wall securely, once you are a hundred percent sure it is supposed to go there. Once this is done, congrats! You have the wall frame completed and are ready to fill it up with the wall coating of your choosing!

How To Build A Wall The Guide

However, if you’re wanting the job to be done professionally by experienced contractors who can do the job right, be sure to call Affordable Tuck Pointing Pros to find out what we can do for you when it comes to repair or building your wall!

If any of this sounds good to you, visit our website today to learn more about who we are, our services, and how we can help you complete your building projects in no time at all, leaving you with incredible results!


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