Author name: richardonna@rogers.com

Some Common Defects in Brick Masonry Works Brick masonry is a popular building material that has been used for centuries. It is often chosen because of its durability and appearance. However, brick masonry works can suffer from several common defects that can cause problems for the building. In this article you will find information about these common brick masonry defects.  Incorrect Mortar Mixing The most common defect in brick masonry works is caused by improperly mixed mortar. If the mortar isn’t mixed properly, it will be too wet or too dry. The wet mortar will not bond to the bricks, and the bricks will eventually fall off. The dry mortar will not bind to the bricks, and the bricks will eventually crumble. One way to make sure your mortar is correctly mixed is to ensure that the right amounts of sand, cement, and water are used. If you don’t use the right amounts, the mortar may not be strong enough to hold the bricks together, and it may fall apart over time. Thick Bed Joints One common defect in brick masonry is bed joints that are too thick. This occurs when the mortar between the bricks is thicker than it should be, which can cause the bricks to crack and the mortar to crumble. This defect can be caused by several factors, including incorrect proportions of ingredients in the mortar mix, improper application of the mortar, or insufficient curing time. Improperly Filled Bed Joints The use of bed joints that are not filled properly can often lead to common defects in brick masonry. If the mortar is not properly packed into the joint, it can often lead to the mortar being pushed out from the joint, eventually leading to the brick becoming loose. This can often be a very costly problem to fix, as it may require the replacement of large sections of brick masonry. One way to avoid improperly filled bed joints is to use a level when filling them with mortar. This will help to ensure that the joint is even and decrease the chances of it being improperly filled. Additionally, you can use a T-bar or other tool to create a smooth, even surface on which to lay the bricks, which will also help ensure an even bed joint. Wet Bricks and Bad Weather The weather can have a significant impact on brick masonry. If it is exposed to rain, snow, or ice while still wet, it can cause the bricks to become soft and pliable. This can lead to common defects such as surface erosion, spalling, and even complete failure of the masonry. To avoid these problems, it is important to allow newly laid bricks time to dry out before exposing them to bad weather. Not Adjusting the Suction of the Bricks The most common defect in brick masonry is a failure to adjust the suction of the bricks. This occurs when the mortar is not properly mixed or when the bricks are not properly wetted before being laid. If the mortar is too wet, it will not hold the bricks in place, and if it is too dry, it will not stick to the bricks. The mortar must be thoroughly mixed, and the bricks sufficiently wetted before they are laid. When bricks are laid, they should be laid with the long sides down to prevent future cracking. Brick Shrinkage Brick masonry is commonly susceptible to shrinkage, which can cause various defects, including cracking, spalling, and efflorescence. Shrinkage is typically caused by the drying out of the mortar and/or the bricks themselves. This can be exacerbated by factors such as low humidity, high winds, or exposure to the sun. Shrinkage can be prevented by using properly-graded mortar and ensuring that the bricks are properly wet before being laid. Harsh Weather Frost damage is a common defect that can occur in brick masonry works. When the temperature drops below freezing, water can freeze in the small pores and capillaries of the masonry. This expansion of the frozen water can cause the masonry to crack and crumble. Frost damage is most likely to occur during sudden temperature changes, such as when the weather goes from warm to cold or when ice forms on the surface of the masonry. This type of damage is often found on the exterior of buildings, where the weather is colder and the sun does not hit the masonry as often. Bad Brick Bricks that contain dirt, dust, or mold can cause common defects in brick masonry. When the bricks are wet, the dirt, dust, or mold can prevent the brick from bonding correctly with other bricks, which can lead to the brick coming loose. This can be a safety hazard and can also decrease the stability of the structure. Most types of brickwork defects can be caused by poor workmanship. These defects can further cause the brickwork to deteriorate over time, leading to structural problems. If you want to avoid these problems in the future or are looking to hire bricklayers in Fredericton, look no further. Atlantic Brick and Stone is one of the best masonry companies in town. Call us at 506-304-0771 for a free estimate. Get Your Brick Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

8 signs that it’s time to repair your concrete steps If you have concrete steps on your property, there will come a time when you need to repair them. Here are 8 signs that it’s time to repair your concrete steps: Structural Damage Structural damage to a concrete staircase can refer to a number of potential issues that can affect the structural integrity of the stairs. One such issue could be the deterioration of the concrete, which can lead to a decrease in the overall strength and stability of the stairs. Another potential issue could be damage to the metal reinforcements within the concrete, which could leave the stairs susceptible to collapse in the event of an earthquake or other natural disaster. Water Damage Water damage to concrete steps can be the result of many different factors, such as weather-related events like rain or snow, or even a plumbing leak. No matter what the cause, the steps will likely need to be repaired or replaced in order to ensure safety and prevent further damage. If water is not dried up quickly, it can seep into the concrete and cause it to crack, crumble, and even fall apart. Broken or Missing Steps Broken or missing steps on a concrete staircase can be a safety hazard. Depending on the severity, it may be a simple fix of pouring new concrete or replacing the step, or it may require more significant repair work. If there is a large hole or missing section of the step, the entire step may need to be replaced. In some cases, the staircase railings may also need to be repaired or replaced due to damage caused by the missing steps. Uneven Steps The uneven steps on the staircase are likely due to poor construction or wear and tear over time. Depending on the height of the stairs, they could be dangerous for individuals walking up or down them if they are not even. This can cause people to lose their balance and potentially fall. In order to avoid this, it is important that any unevenness is fixed as soon as possible by calling masonry repairs contractor in Fredericton. Worn Steps The worn concrete staircase steps are likely due to a combination of factors, including wear and tear from use, weathering, and pollution. The concrete may also be brittle and have low tensile strength due to age. This can lead to cracks and other damage that can cause the surface of the steps to deteriorate, requiring a concrete repair contractor to fix these issues. Mold and Mildew Mold and mildew are both fungi that can grow on concrete staircase steps. They can cause the surface of the concrete to become slippery, which can lead to a fall. The mold and mildew can also release spores into the air, which can cause respiratory problems. It is necessary to inspect the staircase and find the possible cause of this problem to avoid further damage. Cracked Steps The staircase steps are made of concrete, which is a strong and durable material. However, over time the concrete can crack due to weathering, stress, or other factors. When this happens, the step can become unstable and dangerous. In order to fix a cracked step, the concrete must be replaced or repaired. Get Your Concrete Steps Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

4 popular types of masonry walls Masonry walls are great for the home because they provide a barrier against the weather, sound, and to some degree, fires. They can also be made from many different types of materials for different purposes. In this article we will discuss 4 most popular types of masonry walls. Masonry Walls Masonry walls are made from stone brick concrete blocks. They’re commonly used as a protective wall in residential and commercial construction, but they can also be used to create a decorative facade. A masonry unit works on various projects and contributes to various purposes. Depending on the job, some may make walls for house construction, some may make barriers for property lines, and some may create house walls for structural use. Load Bearing Walls Load bearing masonry walls are a method of constructing a building’s exterior by using brick, stone, or other strong material to provide structural support for the building. They are typically made of hollow blocks that have been either cast from concrete or carved from stone. This process is significantly cheaper than creating a steel frame and replacing it with solid masonry. Load bearing walls perform a vital function in large buildings by holding up the roof. These walls are usually constructed of material that is strong enough to support the weight of the roof. These types of walls are also used along with other structural components like steel beams to hold up taller buildings. These walls are commonly found in residential constructions, such as houses, apartments, and condos. Reinforced Masonry Walls Reinforced masonry walls are a cost-effective option for securing residential homes. The process of installing these walls takes between 7 and 10 days, depending on the size of the house. For smaller homes, this process should take no more than 4 days. These walls are designed to be fitted with steel plates which offer greater protection against burglary attempts. Steel reinforcement is also used in the joints of the mortar to provide strength against pressure from outside forces. A reinforced masonry wall is made of a concrete core with brick or stone on the outside. The concrete is usually poured in sections and then cured, which means that it sets and becomes hard. The bricks or stones are laid on top of the concrete, and cement mortar is used to fill in the gaps between them. This creates a strong barrier that can withstand both high winds and earthquakes. Hollow Masonry Walls Hollow masonry walls are walls that are partially hollow. They’re most commonly seen in areas that have high humidity or lots of rain. These types of walls are made from stone, brick, or concrete. Hollow masonry walls are built for a variety of reasons. They are often used to make the walls of buildings more structurally sound, or they can be used as insulation against heat and cold. Hollow masonry walls are also sometimes used to make the structure more resistant to earthquakes. Composite Masonry Walls Composite masonry walls are composed of both brick and stone. The bricks act as a thermal mass to help regulate the temperature inside the building. They also give the wall more strength than it would otherwise have. Composites are composed of two masonry wythes that are bonded to each other. There are two ways of building a wall: one could be brick or stone masonry, while the other could be hollow bricks. Wythes are vertical masonry sections of one unit of thickness. Typically, these wythes are interconnected either through horizontal joint reinforcement or through steel ties. The purpose of composite masonry walls is to provide a durable and economical structural system for the exterior of a building. These walls consist of two or more layers of brick or block, with a layer of insulation in between, and sometimes a water-resistant membrane on the exterior. Get Your Brick, Stone or Block Walls Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

6 signs Your Concrete Needs Repair Concrete is one of the toughest building materials around, but it’s also one of the most porous. Concrete damage comes from both natural and unnatural sources—such as salt water or acids, or from poor maintenance by homeowners. Here are six signs that concrete needs repair. Excessive Cracking or Spalling Cracks or spalling may be cosmetic but they can also be a sign of hidden damage. As concrete ages, it becomes more susceptible to environmental weather factors. This means that the longer it is exposed to moisture, the faster it can crack and spall. This can affect the appearance of your concrete, or make it look like there are leaks. It is essential to keep an eye on the cracks and the spalling. If the cracks and the spalling are in the form of small cracks that are not too deep, you may be able to fix them with a sealer. But if the cracks are deeper, then you need to call in a concrete repairs company who will be able to repair the cracks for you. Chipped or Cracked Concrete Cracks in concrete are bad, but when they’re chipped, they can be even more damaging. Chipped concrete is like sandpaper on the exterior surface of your home, causing scratches and cracks. They may look harmless, but they’re damaging. And they can lead to costly repairs. So don’t let chipped or cracked concrete keep you from enjoying your home. It is a problem that needs to be fixed right away. There is no way to repair a damaged concrete surface yourself. However, you can hire a Masonry Company to do this job. Spreading Cracks As soon as the surface of concrete is hit by a heavy blow, it is forced to expand and contract rapidly, causing the surface to split, crack, and crumble. The cracks will grow bigger over time, eventually forming larger, jagged cracks in the surface. If concrete is heavily damaged, there will be small pockets of moisture that can weaken the material and allow it to break down further. If you don’t fix the surface, it is possible that the damage will continue and even become worse. You should repair the surface as soon as possible so that you won’t have to deal with the problem again. You can do this by filling in the cracks with a repair compound. If the damage is severe, you may need to replace the flooring by calling a professional. A Dark, Greasy Sheen on the Concrete The major sign that the concrete around your house has started to deteriorate is when you start to notice a dark, greasy film developing on your concrete. Once the film is in place, you may have noticed the surface appears to be getting more and more cracked and chipped over time. If you see this happening on your concrete, you should get it fixed as soon as possible because it could become a big problem in the future. Holes in the Concrete These holes, sometimes referred to as “drainage holes,” are typically due to water pressure. As concrete ages, it will crack, and water can slowly seep in. Eventually, the water is trapped, causing the concrete to turn into a sponge and swell up. If you find a hole in your house, you need to call a professional to fix it. Concrete That Looks Discolored If you are having issues with your floor, the first thing you should do is to determine whether or not you have a water leak. If your floor is looking discolored, it means that there is some kind of chemical spill or leak on your floor. That’s why you need to call a professional to inspect your property. Once you find out what is wrong, you can contact the right person to fix the issue. Get Your Concrete Repairs Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

8 Most common types of wall cracks There are many types of wall cracks that can form, each with their own characteristics. Cracks can be caused by many different factors including moisture, weak materials or just the passage of time. Some cracks may not pose any risk to the structural integrity of a building but others could leave it in danger of collapse. The type of crack will determine what steps should be taken in order to repair the problem. This article will discuss various types of wall cracks and their causes. Interior Wall Cracks The most common type of interior wall cracks are caused by moisture from a leak or flood. They can be small or large, and they can occur anywhere in the home, but most commonly they appear along baseboards or around windows or doors. Causes of interior wall cracks can include: The walls are not properly sealed to the foundation, which can cause water to seep in and freeze. The building is settling unevenly, causing some of the wall’s weight to be borne by the floor. There is inadequate support for the wall, such as a bad foundation or inadequate framing. You should call a professional if the crack extends through the interior of the wall. This may indicate that a serious problem exists, such as moisture damage or dry rot. Exterior Wall Cracks When there is a small crack in the exterior wall or ceiling of your house, it is referred to as an exterior wall crack. Exterior wall cracks usually occur during times of high humidity or freezing weather. These cracks are very dangerous and may lead to mold growth, water damage, and even structural damage if not repaired properly. The damage can also allow entry to pests such as termites, ants, wasps, bees, and rats. The exterior wall cracks could be due to a variety of reasons. The most common cause of exterior wall cracks is the shrinkage and expansion of building materials due to the natural movement of the earth’s crust, causing changes in temperature and humidity. If there are any gaps in the building materials or if they are not installed correctly, this can also cause cracks. Foundation Wall Cracks Foundation cracks—also called foundation settling—are caused by structural problems in the home. It’s normal to have a small amount of settling every few years, but if you notice cracks in your walls that are more than a few inches wide, you should call a foundation repair specialist to determine the cause. There are many causes of foundation wall cracks. The first is improper installation. If the wall was not installed properly, a crack will result, and masonry repairs will be needed to fix the problem. If the wall was correctly installed, but is now settling, there may be a problem with the foundation. It may have settled too much. A masonry contractor should repair the foundation if possible and check for other problems that may be causing the wall to crack. Foundation walls are also susceptible to issues like termites, mold, and water damage. Structural Cracks A structural crack is an area where the wall has cracked due to repeated stress with little visible damage. These cracks are common in older homes, often found on the second story and foundation walls. The other common cause of structural cracks is tree roots growing and penetrating through the foundation. Tree roots can push up on the foundation, causing it to crack. Tree roots also expand and contract with changes in weather, which can also cause cracking. Cosmetic Cracks A cosmetic crack is a very tiny crack in the surface of a painted wall. This type of crack may be small, but it can seriously affect the appearance of a room. The crack doesn’t affect the structure of the house and is an easy fix. However, if neglected, cosmetic cracks can turn into structural cracks over time. Horizontal Brick Cracks Horizontal brick cracks can be caused by the brick shrinking and expanding due to changes in temperature and moisture. This type of problem can be fixed easily. Vertical Brick Cracks There are many reasons why a vertical brick crack would occur. The most common is that the mortar has dried out and no longer provides adequate support for the brick. Another possible reason is that the brick was not laid correctly, which can lead to a vertical crack. Brick Veneer Cracks Brick veneer is often used for decorative purposes, but it can also be used as a structural material. Brick veneer is not meant to be load-bearing; the bricks are typically nailed or glued to a backing material. Cracks occur when the mortar between the bricks starts to deteriorate and fall out. As this happens, the brick veneer begins to separate from the backing material, which causes cracking along the joints. Wall cracks can be an easy fix for small projects, but they are a big headache for larger ones. It’s important to always call a contractor to inspect and repair any cracks before they get bigger. If you notice any cracks on your walls, don’t ignore them. Call Atlantic Brick and Stone immediately to make sure your walls are safe and to have them inspected. Get Your Wall Cracks Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

Things You Don’t Know About Stone Masonry Stone masonry is a type of building construction that uses natural stone to build walls, retaining walls and other structures. The construction is also known as “tiled masonry”. It can be used to create buildings such as houses, churches, schools, and fortresses. A combination of stones, mortars and binding material is used in this process. Stone masonry is a time-tested way to add beauty and stability to any home. But there is a lot more to this ancient art than what meets the eye. This blog will look at some of the benefits you don’t know about stone masonry. Durable Stone is a building material that’s been around for thousands of years and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. The best part about stone, however, is its ability to be both elegant and functional in the same design. It can be a beautiful addition to your home, and it can also be a strong foundation. It has a longer life span than concrete. It’s also less expensive than concrete but requires skilled labor. Some types of stone are more resistant to cracking than others. Limestone is the most common type of stone used in residential construction because it is very durable and strong. Affordable The reason why stones are an affordable building material is that they are relatively light, yet strong, and have been around for thousands of years. Their beauty lies in the way they can be used to create something as unique as your home, or as functional as a bridge. Stone is a great choice for homeowners who want to save money while creating a beautiful exterior, or as a building material for builders who want to use a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to concrete. Usability In stone masonry construction, stone is cut into various shapes and sizes to create a wide variety of building materials. From retaining walls to the foundation of buildings, stone is used to create structures of all kinds. This building material is even used in the construction of chimneys, fireplaces, driveways, and patio. Less Maintenance Stone is a great material for building because it’s durable; that is why it needs very little to no maintenance when compared with other construction methods such as brick masonry. It doesn’t require a lot of finishing as well. Flexible The fourth benefit on our list is flexibility. Stone masonry construction can be used in many different ways. For example, it can be used as a building material, or as a decorative element on a property, or for other things that a homeowner might desire. This means that there are many different options when it comes to the use of stone and how it will be incorporated into a project. One of the best uses of stone is when it is used to create a unique outdoor feature. With the right type of stone, you can even make your own path to the house, and the possibilities are endless. Easy Repair It’s also incredibly easy to replace if you need to make a change to your home’s façade. However, it’s important to take the right steps to ensure that your masonry contractor is capable of handling the job. The key is to choose a qualified mason who knows how to properly apply the material, so that it is a lasting and beautiful addition to your property. Fireproof Stone masonry is fireproof. It is resistant to the elements and can stand up to extreme weather conditions. It is also very resilient, and will not crack or crumble over time, meaning a stone mason’s work will last for generations to come. Disadvantages There are a couple of disadvantages of this type of masonry. Here those are: Weight Stone is a very hefty, heavy material that can be hard to work with. It can be difficult to cut and work with, which makes it difficult to create intricate designs. That is why stone also involves high cost for installations, and may ruin your construction budget. Require Skilled Labor As we know, there are very few disadvantages to stone masonry construction, but I think the one that needs the most attention is the requirement of skilled workers. Stone masonry is a demanding job, and it can be difficult to get the right people to work on it. The process of stone masonry can be quite labor-intensive. Stone masons must be skilled crafts people, and they must be able to work with heavy stones. Get Your Stone Masonry Project Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

Concrete Block Foundation or Poured Foundation, which is Better? The question of whether concrete block or poured concrete foundation is better has been asked since the advent of concrete block. Today, many contractors prefer poured concrete foundations because of their ease of construction and the way that they look on the other hand Concrete block is a favorite material for many homeowners in Fredericton because of its durability and affordability. This post will help you answer the question of which is better by evaluating the pros and cons of each. What is Concrete Block Foundation? A concrete foundation is a type of building material that is commonly used for foundations. These blocks can provide a durable, long-lasting foundation for buildings. This is typically made up of rectangular blocks of concrete. They are typically arranged into a pattern that creates a floor, walls, and sometimes a ceiling. Concrete blocks are used as an economical alternative to poured concrete. They can be used in a variety of applications, including residential and commercial construction. Benefits Concrete block foundations are cost-effective, they’re easy to build and maintain, and the overall look of a concrete block home adds to its aesthetic value. Concrete blocks are typically used in construction projects because they provide a sturdy and durable base for homes, schools, and other large structures. In addition to being a great base for building, concrete blocks also come in a variety of colors, making them easy to blend in with any home’s design. Foundation repair is easy in this type of material. Drawbacks Building a block foundation is an excellent way to keep the house safe in an earthquake. But if the blocks are not properly reinforced, they’re not as strong as they should be. A weak link in the foundation itself is the mortar used to join the blocks together. It is susceptible to leaks and is considered the weakest link. What is Poured Concrete Foundation? Poured concrete foundations are often sought for new construction. They’ve been used since the late 1970s and have become more popular as time has gone by. A concrete block foundation is a durable, low-cost alternative that may be better suited for some applications. The cost of poured concrete varies based on the size of the slab, type of sub-grade soil, reinforcement requirements, and other factors. Benefits Poured concrete foundation has a long life expectancy and can be used in various situations, like for residential and commercial construction. It has good resistance to fire, high density and heat, good sound and vibration dampening properties, and a low moisture absorption. A poured concrete foundation can also reduce the need to use other materials, such as steel reinforcement, reinforcing bars, rebar, and structural members. With poured concrete, you get a more stable, longer-lasting, and water-resistant home. Poured concrete is also great for its low maintenance and cost. It requires no regular cleaning and lasts for decades. Drawbacks Higher cost than other foundation types This type of foundation may crack The poured concrete foundation may be uneven The poured concrete foundation requires a lot of work to keep it in good shape Hope this guide will help you to make an informed decision. If you still want to know more or are looking for a home foundation specialist for your project, contact Atlantic Brick and Stone, one of the best masonry contractors in Fredericton with trained staff. We provide all types of masonry services in Fredericton with a warranty. Call us at 506-304-0771 to discuss your project. Get Your Commercial Building Foundation Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

Top 10 benefits of Brick Masonry Brick masonry is a great way to make your house look up-to-date and create a modern design. It is economical and less expensive than other options, and can be customized to create your ideal home. This blog post will look at 10 top benefits of using brick masonry for your home. What is Brick Masonry? Brick masonry is a type of construction, often involving bricks, created by stacking non-mortar materials in structures such as walls or fireplaces to provide strength and stability. It is one of the oldest building materials, dating back to ancient civilizations. Brick masonry is commonly used in brick buildings, houses, and walls. Types of Bricks There are several different types of bricks, each with specific uses and constructed using varying techniques. Here are some of the most popular ones: Common Burnt Clay Bricks Common Burnt Clay Bricks have a dark, brownish color due to a traditional kiln firing process. This process gives the bricks their color and natural porosity. These bricks are commonly used as a building material in residential construction, especially in central heating and cooling systems. Concrete Bricks Concrete bricks are made from a mixture of cement, water, aggregate, and sometimes sand. Due to variations in composition, concrete bricks can be produced in different shapes, colors, and textures, aside from their standard use as concrete blocks. Typically, a concrete brick is a rectangular block with a single face. Sand Lime Bricks Sand lime bricks are unique as they are manufactured from natural sand mixed with lime and water. This brick masonry is ideal for earthquake-prone areas and regions with high temperatures. Engineering Bricks Engineering bricks are lightweight and similar to concrete blocks. Made from a special blend of clay, cement, and sand, these bricks are commonly used to create concrete slabs, foundations, and retaining walls. Despite their lightweight nature, they can support up to 300 pounds per square foot of pressure. Engineering bricks are very durable and popular for both home and commercial construction. Benefits of Brick Masonry There are various benefits of brick masonry, including: Brick masonry is environmentally friendly and sustainable, making it an excellent choice for homes. It is highly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Brick masonry can be designed to resist seismic forces, making it useful for earthquake-prone areas. It is an energy-efficient material, which helps save on energy bills. Compared to other construction materials, brick masonry is relatively inexpensive. It offers a variety of colors, textures, and shapes to suit any home design. Brick masonry allows for a personalized, unique aesthetic. As a natural and sustainable material, it is ideal for eco-friendly homes. Brick masonry provides natural thermal mass, reflecting heat and maintaining a consistent temperature indoors. It is versatile, suitable for various applications, from bathrooms to kitchens and from walls to floors. Is It Cost-Effective? Yes, brick masonry is a cost-effective option for both homeowners and business owners. Its versatility allows it to be used for a wide range of applications, from garages to patios. In house construction, brick masonry can be used in the foundation, base, and walls, making it a practical and economical choice. Get Your Brick Masonry Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

7 Foundation protection measures for your home The foundation of your home provides stability for the structure. If you know what to do to take care of it, you should be able to save on costly projects down the line. Home foundations can be vulnerable to a number of things, such as high winds and floods, which can cause it to fail. To avoid costly repairs or even worse, major foundation failure, there are some preventative measures that homeowners should take. Proper Slope There are a few different types of slope, including camber, pitch, and grade. Camber is the amount that the ground slopes away from the house, typically measured in inches per foot. Pitch refers to the slope of the ground from horizontal, while grade describes the slope from vertical. Proper slope to protect your home’s foundation depends on your geographical location and climate. In hot, dry climates where there is a risk of fire, the ground might be sloped away from the structure in the front and toward the structure in the back. In cold climates, the ground might be sloped away from the house in the front and toward the house in the back. In both cases, proper slope helps prevent water from seeping into the foundation. Water Drainage System Without proper drainage, water from rainfall or melting snow can leak into your foundation, causing long-term complications. Protect your home’s foundation by installing a surface drain or by placing gutters and downspouts at least 6 feet away from the foundation. Keep Moisture Away Excess moisture is a primary cause of foundation problems. If moisture remains in the ground around your foundation, it can eventually lead to cracks and sinking. When this happens, foundation repair becomes a costly and time-consuming project. The best way to keep moisture away from the foundation is by installing a perimeter drainage system to remove water and direct it away from your home. Plumbing System Inspection The plumbing in your home plays an important role in maintaining your foundation. It is essential to have annual plumbing inspections performed by a licensed professional to ensure that the pipes are not leaking and to detect any potential problems early. Proper inspections help identify issues before they occur, providing peace of mind and protecting your home’s foundation. Having a licensed plumber inspect your home’s plumbing is the best way to ensure that the system is functioning correctly and that no hidden problems are waiting to occur. Foundation Slab Protection There are several options to protect your slab foundation as recommended by most masonry contractors. One option is to pour a concrete slab on top of the existing slab, especially useful if you’re adding an addition to your home. Another option is to install a perimeter drainage system around the outside of your home to divert water away from the house and prevent moisture from accumulating under the slab. The best way to protect a slab foundation is to install a vapor barrier on the inside of the foundation walls, which prevents moisture from seeping into the foundation wall and causing damage. Ground Level One of the simplest ways to protect your foundation is to ensure that the ground around your home is level. Uneven ground can cause your foundation to shift and crack, potentially leading to costly repairs. By taking the time to level the ground around your home, you can save a significant amount on foundation repairs in the future. Landscape Intelligently Another effective way to protect your foundation is to prevent soil erosion around your home by planting native shrubs, trees, grasses, and ground cover. These plants help maintain the moisture level in the soil by absorbing excess water during rainy days. However, avoid planting them too close to the walls of your house, as their roots may weaken the foundation. Get Your Residential Foundation Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

How to identify a collapsing foundation? It’s a question that many different people have asked, as homes are built on unstable foundations. Unfortunately, this common scenario is often difficult to diagnose and fix, which is why it’s important for homeowners to know how to identify a collapsing. This can help prevent the foundation from falling through the house or even collapsing in its entirety. Here are some signs that your foundation is failing: Sagging Basement Walls One of the first signs that your foundation may be crumbling is when sagging walls begin to pull away from the house. This sagging is abnormal and can also cause damage to your home’s framing and potentially other structures. In older homes, you might notice that a wall has softened over time due to moisture or rotting wood. To check if your walls are pulling away from the foundation, use flashlights and tape a string between two points on the wall. If you have more than one floor, run a string to a central point on each floor as well. For concrete foundations, the wall may have lost a level of support over time. Cracks Running Through the Foundation Foundation cracks can be caused by nearby rocks or water seepage. In older homes, it’s common to see water coming up from the ground and flowing into the basement, causing walls to sag and develop cracks. This can sometimes lead to crumbling and collapsing of the concrete beneath your home. Creaking Floorboards A failing foundation often causes creaking floorboards or boards that crack in the corners. This is usually due to the foundation’s boards deteriorating and wearing out over time. If a floorboard starts to creak, inspect the foundation for cracks or signs of water leaks in your basement. Damaged wood due to water may need to be treated or replaced as it may no longer be safe for use in your home. Floor Shifting Another sign of potential foundation collapse is when the floor shifts or moves. Sometimes, this can even cause cracking between floors, eventually leading to widespread damage throughout your home. If there’s heavy rain, you might hear sounds from beneath the house, which could indicate foundation failure. If your floors start to shift, contact a foundation repair company to test the stability of your foundation. Floor Bowing Floor bowing is another common issue that can result from a decaying foundation. This refers to when your floor bows inward toward the center of your home. Although it may not be as frequent as other signs, it’s a clear indication of structural issues that need immediate attention. Protracted Settlement If your home appears to be settling over an extended period, this could indicate a collapsing foundation. As foundation repair specialists would advise, it’s essential to have a stable footing when building a home. If your house has become unbalanced due to prolonged settling, foundation repair is needed immediately. How to Avoid Foundation Failure? To prevent damage or accidents due to foundation failure, contractors should evaluate the load path details from structural drawings to ensure adequate reinforcement against horizontal forces. Additionally, masons may consider installing extra support or retaining walls, if feasible, as a preventive measure against settling and movement-induced failure. Get Your Foundation Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate