A Guide to Different Types of Masonry Restorations

Types of Masonry Restorations

Many types of masonry are used in Fredericton construction for both structural and aesthetic purposes. Each has its advantages but also faces different issues over time. Proper identification is key to determining the best restoration approach. Here are the most common:

Brick Masonry Restoration

Brick is a very popular masonry material for both appearance and fire resistance. Over the years, brickwork can experience issues like cracking, spalling, efflorescence, and more. Brick restoration involves carefully cleaning away any dirt, debris, or loose material. Individual damaged bricks may need to be replaced to match the color and size of the existing.

Repointing is another important part of brickwork restoration. This is the process of renewing mortar joints between bricks that have degraded. The new mortar must be installed correctly to prevent water infiltration and maintain structural integrity. Signs it’s time for brick restoration include:

• Cracking or spalling of brick surfaces
• Efflorescence or lime deposit buildup on brick
• Deteriorated or crumbling mortar joints
• Crumbling, loose, or damaged individual bricks

Stone Masonry Restoration

Natural stone like granite, limestone, and sandstone are durable but also porous. Manufactured stone is non-porous. Either can deteriorate over time from weathering and pollution. Stone restoration focuses on deep cleaning without harming the surface. Consolidation may be needed for porous stone to reinforce weak areas.

• Cracks, chips or spalling affecting the stone surface
• Deterioration of stone material from pollution or acid rain
• Visible weak areas that require consolidation
• Damage or degradation of mortar joints

Concrete Restoration

Issues with concrete masonry like cracking, scaling, and staining require cleaning, patching, and potentially reinforcing the structure. Surface restoration cleans and returns concrete to its original condition. For more extensive damage, existing concrete may need to be removed and replaced in some areas. Signs that concrete repair may be required include:

• Cracking or scaling of the concrete surface
• Staining or discoloration that won’t clean off
• Structural issues like sinking or bowing concrete
• Extensive damage requiring replacement of sections
• Deteriorated concrete that is crumbling

Stucco Restoration

Stucco is a cement-based exterior plaster used on homes. Over time, cracking, delamination, or moisture problems can develop. Stucco restoration involves repairing damaged areas by raking out loose material. Compatible sealants may be applied before reapplying a new layer of stucco to match the original texture and color. Signs that stucco restoration may be needed:

• Cracking or scaling of the stucco surface
• Delamination or crumbling of the stucco plaster
• Evidence of moisture issues like mold or water damage
• Loose or debonded stucco that can be easily removed

Tile and Terracotta Restoration

These masonry materials are commonly used for ornamental purposes and roofing. Issues could involve cracking glazed tile, loosened terracotta, or missing sections. Restoration cleans surfaces while respecting historic details. Signs that tile or terracotta restoration may be needed:

• Cracking, loosening, or missing pieces of tile or terracotta
• Deteriorated grout between tiles
• Surface staining or structural issues from water damage
• Worn, cracked, or degraded glazing on glazed tile

Specialized Masonry Restoration Techniques

While cleaning, repairing, and repointing make up basic restoration, some projects call for specialized techniques. Two examples are tuckpointing for mortar joints and considering lime versus cement mortar.

Tuckpointing

The mortar joints between units like brick are called tuckpointing. Over decades, mortar can break down from weathering, requiring skilled tuckpointers to restore the important barrier against water penetration. Signs that tuckpointing may be required:

• Crumbling, cracked, or loose mortar joints
• Mortar that has degraded or is easily removed
• Evidence of water infiltration from failed mortar

Lime Mortar vs. Cement Mortar

Lime mortar allows structures like brick or stone to breathe naturally, while cement mortar is more hard and impervious. Lime mortar may be preferable, especially for historic buildings. However, cement mortar offers more durability in some climates, so the building material, design, and local conditions help determine the best choice.

DIY Masonry Restoration – When and How

Some minor repairs can potentially be handled yourself as a DIY project with the right guidance. Assess whether the extent and type of work is suited for an amateur.

• Repointing small sections of mortar joints
• Installing surface sealants on efflorescence or stains
• Patching minor cracks or holes less than 1/2 inch wide
• Replacing individual damaged bricks, pavers, or tiles

Choosing the Right Masonry Materials

When starting a masonry restoration project, proper specification of new materials is necessary to long-term success. Replacement materials should closely match the original in terms of texture, profile, color, and performance properties. Sustainable and eco-friendly options are available like plant-based pigments and local stone/aggregates to minimize environmental impacts of extensive restoration.

Finding Professional Masonry Restoration Services in Fredericton

For anything beyond minor masonry repairs, hiring a qualified masonry restoration contractor provides peace of mind. Skilled professionals have extensive training and experience ensuring your project meets technical requirements and desired outcomes.

In Fredericton, a top option for masonry work is Atlantic Brick and Stone. As a full-service masonry company, our trained team provides quality restoration work for commercial and residential properties of all styles. Don’t hesitate to contact us for your restoration needs. We promise to treat each customer and project with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Preventive Maintenance for Masonry Structures

• Develop an inspection schedule to routinely examine your masonry
• Plan seasonal maintenance tasks like power washing, pruning, and caulking
• Check for small problems promptly before they worsen
• Re-caulk and re-point mortar joints annually for ongoing protection
• Schedule expert evaluations every few years for a thorough examination
• Performing regular maintenance extends the lifetime of your masonry structures

Proper preventative maintenance through routine inspection and minor repairs is key to avoiding costly restoration work down the line.