Common Masonry Issues 

by secure_admin | Mar 2, 2023 | Masonry

Masonry construction has been used for centuries to create strong and long-lasting structures. However, masonry, like any building material, can be susceptible to various issues over time.? 

From cracking and erosion to moisture damage and settling, there are several common masonry issues that builders and property owners may encounter.? 

This article will explore some of the most common masonry issues and their causes. So, if you’re curious about common masonry issues and how to prevent them, keep reading. 

Fortunately, you can fix most of these issues by hiring a professional?cinder block wall repair contractor. 

Brick Spalling 

Brick Spalling is a type of wear and tear in brick walls, typically caused by extreme weather conditions or structural issues. It is the result of moisture that penetrates the mortar between the bricks, causing them to swell and eventually break apart.? 

In extreme cases, some pieces of the brick could detach from the wall and fall off – an unpleasant and dangerous situation.? 

Luckily, you can mitigate this problem by regularly checking for cracks and gaps in your wall, sealing them off with caulking, and even replacing any bricks noticeably affected by spalling.? 

With proper maintenance, you can keep your bricks safe from such damage. 

Mortar Deterioration 

Mortar deterioration is a common masonry issue that can occur over time. Mortar is used to bind bricks or stones together in masonry structures.? 

Over time, exposure to weather and other environmental factors can cause the mortar to deteriorate, leading to cracks, erosion, and other forms of damage. Mortar deterioration can weaken the overall structure of a masonry wall, making it less stable and more prone to collapse. It can also allow moisture to penetrate the wall, leading to additional damage and potential mold or mildew growth.? 

To prevent mortar deterioration, it’s essential to use high-quality mortar appropriate for the specific application and perform regular maintenance and repairs as needed. 

Sandstone Erosion 

Sandstone erosion in masonry is a process whereby sandstone deteriorates due to chemical weathering, salt attacks, and abrasion. It can lead to the crumbling of stone masonry, resulting in aesthetically displeasing outcomes and damage to any structure containing the sandstone.? 

Airborne pollutants, acid rain, or improper finishing of the sandstone work itself commonly cause such erosion. Still, it can also occur naturally as part of a normal aging process for certain stone types.? 

Sealants should be applied regularly to all sandstone materials used in structures to prevent water infiltration and the worsening of this issue.? 

Efflorescence 

Efflorescence is a common masonry issue that occurs when salt deposits form on the surface of a masonry structure. These deposits are caused by moisture penetrating the masonry and dissolving the salts that are naturally present in the building materials.? 

As the moisture evaporates, the salt is left behind, forming a white, powdery substance on the surface of the masonry.? 

While efflorescence is not typically a structural issue, it can detract from the appearance of the masonry. It may indicate underlying moisture issues that could lead to more significant damage over time.? 

Regular cleaning and maintenance can help to prevent the buildup of salt deposits on the surface of the masonry.? 

Things to Search for While Hiring a Masonry Contractor

by secure_admin | May 25, 2020 | Masonry

Selecting a certified masonry contractor for a particular job partially depends on the needed materials for the job. Though the majority of masons can work with different materials, others are experts in particular kinds of work and are great in executing it due to their excellent concentration as they work with particular types of materials and on particular kinds of projects. Doing a historical restoration of a chimney is quite different than installing just a mere concrete block retaining wall. Hence, you really need to know the qualifications of the mason you’ll be working with to guarantee the best results as much as possible.  

Payment 

The contract terms must indicate a payment schedule and who’s liable for buying the needed materials for the project. Typically, there’s a direct deposit and partial payments will be done according to the job completion’s percentage. 

Final cleanup and job preparation 

You need to discuss when there are several requirements for the project to be ready before the mason will start working on it. An example of this work prep includes removing things or any excavation needed to let room for the project to keep going. Also, you should talk about who will be responsible for the cleanup and if ever any debris is required to be towed away.  

Time for completion, scheduling, and work method 

When there’s a crucial moment factor involved in your job like a renovation that’s done to sell a home, guarantee that the mason will be able to finish the job on time. Unpredicted delays could extremely be frustrating. Other amateur masons only accept the jobs they think can deal with. This can cause delays when it comes to completing the work. Ensure that there’s enough work crew that will execute your job and completes it within the anticipated time.  

Reputation and experience 

Let them tell you about their experience of working with the materials you want to be used for your projects. Masons with a lot of experience are expected to have several proof and pictures of the jobs they have completed with their past clients. Moreover, they can help give references and insights about the materials you need and the project.   

Insurance, certification, and license of the contractor 

Commonly, masons need to get a general contractor’s license that’s in great standing. You can ask the state license bureau to confirm whether the license is still active and whether there are any filed complaints against the contractor. Aside from that, all masons should obtain insurance, which is worker general responsibility insurance for the job and worker’s comp for employees. To guarantee, you can request a copy of the license, insurance, and certification and then verify that their documents are all authentic. 

Once you adhere to these hacks as you search for the best masonry contractor Fargo, rest assured that you will only get the best outcome. If in case you are currently looking for one, never hesitate to call us!