Starting off with the definition of masonry, it is a construction method that binds bricks or stones together using a cement mortar. Some structures, especially historic buildings, are made with masonry. All building types will age and will need some repair or restoration. Simple masonry repairs can strike some damage control; however, some damages need to be checked, so the damage won’t worsen. And here’s a tip, you might need a masonry repair after an earthquake since it may have caused some damages to your building. Better be safe than sorry!

Water damage is the most common reason why homeowners have to go with masonry restoration. This type of issue should not be neglected as it can cause more troubles in the future; for example, when water gets stuck or expands, it can make the bricks fall apart. And different masonry restoration types are depending on the needs of your house.

Masonry restoration is the process of dealing with masonry on an existing building structure. It can be repointed, tuckpointed, or any other masonry restoration type. Continue reading this article to know more about masonry restorations, materials needed, and their types.

What is Masonry Restoration?

Masonry restoration is a construction method to work on existing masonry in commercial or residential establishments. It is done by removing the old materials and replacing them with fresh ones. 

Masonry restoration is often mistaken as masonry repair. However, since masonry restoration is a more complicated and more extensive project, those two are different from each other. Only the damaged areas are done by the masonry repair experts. Although regular masonry repairs can be a way to extend the lifespan of any form of masonry, however, there will come a time that the buildings can no longer handle repairs. This is where the restoration comes in. It is necessary for masonry buildings, especially historical buildings, to undergo restoration. Also, restoration ensures that the appearance and structure of the buildings will remain standing and will be improved.

What are the types of masonry restorations?

Masonry restoration offers different types you can choose from based on what repair your masonry construction needs. To dig in deeper, here are some masonry restoration methods you should know. However, it is always recommended to consult with a masonry expert to know which process you should go through.

Tuckpointing

The tuckpointing process can improve the masonry facades because it is a method where a mason will use two contrasting mortar colors in the joints or brickwork. The work must give asymmetrical look.

Repointing

The repointing process differs from the tuckpointing since the masonry expert, or you will have to fill up the gap caused by the damaged mortar joints.

Replacement and resettling

The repair process for this type of masonry restoration is done by dealing with a fallen and deteriorated stone, brick, and block. Some masonry specialists will resettle the damaged units in place with a new mortar, but some do replacements using old units.

Parging

This is another type of masonry restoration; however, in this one, a cement mortar is applied on an exposed wall surface. Make sure that it is just a smooth coat since it is done to walls that are adjoining.

Chemical Cleaning

Cleaning could be easy, but it is essential. It is highly suggested to clean areas using water, but mild chemical cleaners and a soft brush can do, also. However, make sure to stay away from abrasive cleaning methods as they can damage the structures.

Chimney Crown Restoration

What can a damaged chimney crown do? It can allow water, erosion, and heat exposure if neglected. It is recommended to do an action if your chimney top gets damaged; you can opt to have a crown coat repair for waterproofing.

Fireplace Refacing

Fireplaces get impaired over time, too! However, you can prevent that by doing a fireplace refacing, requiring you to use new materials to redo the mantle. 

What are the common masonry restoration tools?

If you want to do the masonry restoration yourself, here are some must-haves that should be in your tool bag! But make sure you have the highest degree of masonry skills to perform such actions to avoid problems in the future.

Hammer and chisel

These two materials are used to break the mortar. 

Grinder and blades

These two are your favorites when it comes to dealing with the extrusion process of old mortar. And grinders will be used for smoothing out the surface.

Trowel and jointers

A trowel is a beneficial tool since it can be either used in new masonry or masonry restoration. Its function is to spread the mortar in the required spots, while jointers work mortar in between bricks during the tuckpointing process.

Brushes and sponges

Of course, your masonry restoration project should not be left behind after the last step in masonry restoration. You will need brushes and sponges to clean the surfaces and areas that are required to be cleaned. A debris-full place can be a hindrance when you apply a new mortar or protective coat.

Mortar

If you remove an old mortar, make sure to get your new mortar ready. Your new mortar should match your previous mortar, although it can be a struggle sometimes. You can, however, opt to mix and match multiple colors to achieve the last look.

Levels

A level is an essential tool, as it makes the surfaces level or even. 

What are the masonry materials?

Masonry can be done to improve your home and your home’s curb appeal. And learning about these masonry materials is a must since you will be choosing for your own home or building. Picking out the right material could be hard at times, but this guide will help you with your selection process by defining each material and giving you some hints of what it can do. However, it is best to contact your masonry contractor to get a deeper view of these materials.

Brick masonry

The restoration process with bricks should start with harvesting the old or existing bricks. It is the most commonly used material for masonry for its durability, long lifespan, and looks. Brick masonry structures somehow give a unique and fascinating look because that is just how bricks are made.

Bricks have proven that they are worthy and capable of being the best foundation as it has been used for over 5000 years, and proved that they are resistant to fire damage, and they have great moisture control. Not only that, they are also naturally energy efficient.

Stone masonry

This material can be dressed or undressed; however, some homeowners tend to use one of the most useful techniques in stone restoration; stone redressing. Stones have irregular patterns when an undressed stone is laid, while when a dressed stone is laid, it comes in specific sizes. Although, either of the two is pleasant to look at.

Pieces of stone are amazing to look at, and they can also stand for centuries. One great advantage of stone masonry is that they are low maintenance.

Read More: Difference Between Brick Masonry and Stone Masonry

Concrete blocks

If you don’t want a very time-consuming process, you may go for this material as they are larger than stones and bricks. Which means it will not require more time in laying. This material is also cost-effective because it has a high insulation factor resulting in reduced utility costs.

Stucco

This material is durable and resistant to damage. The con you might experience using stucco is the messy construction and the accumulation of moisture.

Need help with your structural masonry building? Call an expert

If you are located in Virginia or nearby, and you need some masonry restorations to be done, you can call an expert masonry restoration contractor. They don’t just offer the service, but they will also give you tons of advice and suggestions about what to do with your building. Not only that, but you can also get a free estimate from them to prepare your pocket.