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Tuckpointing vs. Repointing: What’s the Difference? When it comes to tuckpointing or repointing your home, there’s a lot of confusion about what exactly these terms mean. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a tuck-pointed and a repointed job. The problem is that, while they both involve the application of mortar, they’re actually very different from each other. So, if you’re looking to get your tuckpointing or repointing done, you need to know what these terms mean. What is Tuckpointing? Tuckpointing is a basic maintenance task that homeowners should perform on a regular basis. It is the process of repairing or renewing deteriorated mortar between bricks and masonry units in a wall or building. The goal of tuckpointing is to smooth out cracks and crevices in the foundation, roof, walls, and other areas that can lead to water infiltration and damage. It can be done using a variety of materials and techniques, but most often it involves the use of cement, sand, and water. You can also check here our Restoration Services When is it Necessary to Tuckpoint Your Home? There is no hard and fast answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors, including the age and condition of the home, the type of roofing material used, and the weather conditions in which the home is typically used. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you determine when tuckpointing may be necessary. If your roof has developed significant water damage or leaks, it is generally recommended that you have tuckpointing done as soon as possible. This is because continued rain or snow accumulation can cause further damage to your roofing system or walls. Likewise, if your home experiences heavy wind or hail damage, you should also have tuckpointing done as soon as possible to protect your structure from future harm. Here are some guidelines for when you should tuckpoint: If there are any major cracks or breaks in the foundation surface or around vents, pipes, or electrical cables. If there are noticeable water seepages or moisture damage around windows and doors. If there are signs of shingle rot or wood decay. If you notice any gradual slope in your roof due to rainwater build-up over time. Tuckpointing Benefits Here are some benefits of tuckpointing: It prevents water damage, which can cause the building to deteriorate and can lead to mold and other health problems. It keeps the building looking its best. It adds years to the life of the building. It is a necessary process for maintaining a building. What is Repointing? Repointing your home can be a great way to restore its structural integrity and increase the lifespan of your home. Repointing is the process of injecting new mortar into an existing wall or brick veneer. The goal is to restore the wall or brick veneer to its original condition and strength. Brick repointing is most commonly used on walls that have become weak or cracked due to weathering and/or settlement. When is it Necessary to Repoint Your Home? The most common reasons for needing repointing are due to weather damage (such as freeze/thaw cycles, rain, and wind), age (due to shrinkage and expansion/contraction of the masonry unit), and human error (such as pushing too hard with a bricklayer’s trowel when jointing). Repointing Benefits Repointing can add beauty to your home. The new mortar will be a similar color to the old, so it will blend in well with the existing masonry. Repointing strengthens the wall. The fresh mortar will fill in any cracks or gaps in the masonry, making the wall more stable and less likely to crumble. It protects your home from water damage. Get Your Repointing or Tuckpointing Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

5 structural problems of concrete Concrete is one of the most common building materials used in the construction industry. Concrete has many advantages over other building materials, such as being a non-combustible material that can be easily molded into any shape. However, concrete is prone to many problems, including cracks, shrinkage, and moisture. These problems can lead to severe damage to the building and the surrounding area. So it is important to understand these 5 structural problems of concrete.  Low Tensile Strength Concrete has a low tensile strength, meaning that it is not very resistant to stretching or pulling. This can cause the concrete to crack and spall or break into small pieces. This happens when the concrete is subjected to stress, such as when it is exposed to extreme weather conditions or when it is used in a structural application. Low Earthquake Resistance Concrete is not very resistant to earthquakes, and that can lead to serious damage in the event of an earthquake. The shaking from an earthquake can cause the concrete to crack and even crumble, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Additionally, the damage from an earthquake can cause a building to collapse, which can damage other buildings and infrastructure nearby. This is why many buildings made with concrete have to be reinforced with steel rods to help. The rods add strength and stability to the concrete. Poor Thermal Insulation Concrete is a poor thermal insulator because it is a dense material that does not allow much airflow. This means that it does not allow for much of a buffer between the warm air inside a building and the cold air outside, which can lead to higher energy bills. Additionally, concrete can be pretty heavy, so it can be difficult to keep heat from escaping through the roof or windows. There are a few ways to combat the poor thermal insulation problem in concrete. One way is to use a more effective insulation material, such as fiberglass or spray foam. Another way is to cover the concrete with an insulating material, such as siding, roofing, or awnings. Finally, one can improve the thermal conductivity of the concrete itself by using additives or sealants. Susceptible to Corrosion from Chemicals and Saltwater Concrete is a brittle material that can easily be damaged by strong chemicals or saltwater. The alkalinity of these substances can cause the concrete to deteriorate and corrode. This process can lead to the formation of cracks and holes in the surface of the concrete, which can eventually lead to its complete failure. One common way to protect concrete from corrosion is to coat it with a sealant. This can be done either during the manufacturing process or after the concrete is installed. Sealants can be applied in various ways, including spraying, brushing, or rolling. They are typically made of polymers or epoxies and can be pretty effective in preventing corrosion. Another option is to use a coating that contains zinc. Poor Resistance to Fire Concrete is a highly combustible material and can easily ignite, leading to a complete collapse of the structure. The high heat from the fire will cause the metal reinforcement bars within the concrete to expand and eventually break the concrete apart. The combination of a large fire and a structurally unsound building can be disastrous. How to Avoid Damages? Structural problems with concrete are common and often result in expensive repairs. Here are some tips for avoiding these problems: Inspect the structure regularly for signs of concrete deterioration, including checking for cracks, gaps, or deformities in the concrete. Avoid overstressing the concrete by using the correct weight of materials and equipment when constructing or maintaining the structure. Use a certified masonry contractor to avoid mistakes and ensure proper construction techniques are used. If structural problems occur, consult a concrete repair contractor to determine the best course of action. Get Your Concrete Structure Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

Retaining Wall Dos and Donts Retaining walls can be a great way to protect land and property, but there are some things you need to take into account when building them. Here are five tips to help make your retaining wall project a success. What is Retaining Wall? A retaining wall is a structure built to hold back soil or water. They are commonly used to prevent erosion and to stabilize slopes in landscape. A retaining wall can be made from various materials, including brick and stone, timber, steel, or concrete. Choose a Durable Material There are several factors to consider when choosing a material for retaining walls. The most important is finding a material that you can easily work with. Some materials, like concrete, are much easier to work with than others. You’ll also want to choose a material that will be durable and stand up to the weather. The type of material that should not be used in retaining walls is a porous material. A porous material allows water to pass through it, which can lead to erosion of the retaining wall. Instead, a non-porous material should be used in retaining walls, as it will not allow water to pass through and will help to keep the wall stable. DO Stack Blocks Building retaining walls at a slight backward slope is achieved by stacking blocks. When building the wall, the blocks should be placed in a complex pattern to ensure that the wall is stable. Using this technique, the wall will be able to withstand pressure from the soil and will not collapse. Good Foundation One of the most important things to remember when building a retaining wall is to start with a good foundation. This means using a solid base and compacting the soil well before starting to build. If you don’t, the wall may not be stable and could collapse. DO Backfill Accurately When building retaining walls, it is important to backfill them accurately. This means using soil that is of the same composition as the soil that was removed to create the wall. This will help to ensure that the wall remains stable and does not collapse. Build Multi-Tiered Walls If you are looking to build a retaining wall, it is important to consider how many tiers (levels) the wall will have. A single, tall wall can be very expensive and is more likely to fail than a wall with multiple tiers. A strong wall with multiple tiers is more stable and will be less expensive to build than a single, tall wall. Multi-tiered retaining walls consist of several small walls stacked on top of each other. This type of wall is very effective at holding back soil and rocks, and it is also aesthetically pleasing. Make Good Drainage Space When building a retaining wall, it is important to ensure there is adequate drainage space. This will help prevent the build-up of water behind the wall, which can cause it to collapse. You can achieve this by spacing the base of the wall and the top of the drainage pipe at least 3 times the pipe diameter. In simpler terms, make sure there is plenty of room for water to flow freely behind the wall. Get Your Retaining Wall Construction Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

Things to consider when pressure washing an older brick home The exterior of your home is the first impression guests have of your property. It is important to make sure that your home’s exterior is well-maintained and looks clean. One way to achieve this is by pressure washing your brick home. However, before you start pressure washing, there are a few things you need to consider. Repair Damaged Mortar Mortar can become damaged over time from weathering and other factors. When it is damaged, it becomes more susceptible to damage from pressure washing. If the mortar is not repaired before pressure washing, it can be blasted away completely, leaving the brickwork exposed, which can lead to further damage. It is recommended to repair any type of damage before starting the washing process. Cover Windows and Outlets Covering outlets and windows before pressure washing brickwork helps protect them from the high-pressure water and debris that may come flying off the bricks. This is important because it keeps the water and debris from getting inside the house and causing damage. It also prevents injury to people or animals inside from flying debris. Set Low Pressure Settings It is highly recommended to pressure wash on a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the surface being cleaned. Depending on the age and condition of the surface, different levels of pressure may be necessary. For instance, a newer surface may only require a pressure of 1000 psi, while an older, dirtier surface may require a higher pressure setting. It is important to customize the pressure level to achieve the best results without damaging your masonry. Set Proper Distance The safe distance of the pressure wand from the brick wall during pressure washing is typically 15 inches. When using a pressure washer, it’s important to maintain a safe distance between the wand and the surface being cleaned to avoid damage. In this case, that means keeping the wand at least 15 to 17 inches away from the brick wall. Depending on the power of the pressure washer and the type of surface being cleaned, you may need to adjust this distance accordingly. Use Cleaning Brush The use of a cleaning brush in conjunction with a pressure washer can help to avoid streak marks during brickwork pressure washing. The brush helps to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the brickwork, while the pressure washer provides the necessary cleaning power. It is also important to adjust the nozzle of the pressure washer to create a wide spray pattern rather than a concentrated stream, which helps reduce the risk of streak marks. Wet Before Wash When cleaning a brick wall, it is important to wet the surface thoroughly before beginning the pressure wash. This helps to loosen any dirt or debris clinging to the surface, making it easier to remove. It also helps protect the brick from being damaged by the high pressure of the water. Apply Sealant If you’re looking to keep your brickwork in top condition for as long as possible, you might want to consider applying a sealant. This helps to protect the bricks from the elements and keeps them looking clean and tidy for longer. Make sure you choose a sealant that is compatible with the type of brick used, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Pressure washing is a great way to clean your home or business, but it can also be dangerous if not done properly. That’s why it’s important to hire a professional like Atlantic Brick and Stone to avoid any problems or damage. Our experienced team knows how to safely and effectively pressure wash any surface, using the right equipment and techniques for the job. We’ll get your property looking its best in no time! Get Your Brick, Stone or Concrete Surface Pressure Wash Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

8 Reasons Your Floor is sinking or sagging? The current trend in homes and buildings is to go for wide open spaces, open floor plans, or elevated spaces. It’s important to remember that though a floor may appear perfect on the outside, there are many issues that can occur if you don’t take preventative measures. One of the most common issues is uneven or sagging floors. Inspection of a building can often reveal clues to the cause and extent of damage. Masonry floors are particularly susceptible to settlement and unevenness. In this article, we will look at some of the most common causes of uneven or sagging masonry floors. Home Age The age of your home affects the masonry floor’s ability to resist sagging. Older homes have more wear and tear on the materials, which can lead to structural problems. In particular, the masonry floor is susceptible to sagging over time as the mortar and bricks settle. While there are a few things you can do to help slow this process, eventually your home will need concrete repair work to maintain its structural integrity. Poor Structural Design Poor structural design can cause floors to sink. Inadequate support or incorrect installation can lead to a failure of the floor system, resulting in sinking or sagging. This can be dangerous, as it can cause the floor to give way, potentially injuring people walking on it. Poorly designed floors are also more prone to moisture damage. Excess Moisture When water seeps into the mortar between bricks, it slowly erodes the bonding agent, and eventually, the bricks will start to slide or sag. This is often referred to as “leaching” and it can cause significant damage to your masonry floor, especially if it’s not addressed in a timely manner. Excess moisture can also cause the mortar to deteriorate and crumble, which will only exacerbate the problem. Plant Roots Tree roots can grow quite large and extend deep into the soil. This can cause the soil to become compacted, which in turn will make the ground less stable and could lead to sagging floors. Additionally, the roots can extract a great deal of moisture from the soil, leading to drying and shrinking of the surrounding earth. This too can cause floors to sag. Clay Soils Expansive clay soils are composed of minerals that expand when they come into contact with water. This expansion can cause the soil to push up against a structure, such as a floor, and cause it to sag. The amount of expansion depends on the type of clay, the amount of water, and the temperature. Soil Movement Soil movement can cause floors to sink or sag because the shifting earth can create uneven pressure on the foundation or flooring system. This pressure can cause the flooring system to become displaced, creating a sagging effect. Additionally, soil movement can also lead to erosion, which can damage the foundation of a building. Natural Sinkhole Formation A natural sinkhole forms when an underground cavern collapses, leaving a hole in the earth. The hole can be caused by a variety of factors, including erosion, water seepage, or the dissolving of limestone. When a sinkhole forms, the ground above it can collapse as well, creating a sag in the floor. This happens because the ground that used to support the weight of the collapsed earth is now missing, leading to a decrease in the stability of the surrounding area. Improperly Compacted Fill Soil When soil is not compacted properly, it can cause the sub-surface to collapse. This will cause the surface, such as a floor, to sag. The weight of the objects on the surface will exacerbate the problem, as it will push down on the unsupported soil, making it sink even further. If this continues, it can cause significant damage to the structure of the building. Atlantic Brick and Stone can fix a sinking or sagging masonry floor. If the floor is only slightly uneven, then it can be repaired. If the floor is severely damaged, they may need to completely replace it. So if you have floor problems, call us at 506-304-0771 for a free estimate. Get Your Concrete Floor Repair Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

Do you know why Parging fails? Parging is a common solution to fixing the exterior of a home. It is often used to cover up concrete, block, or stucco that has been damaged or is in need of repair. Parging failure can be caused by a number of factors. In some cases, it can even cause more damage to the underlying surface than what was originally there. In this post we will discuss the most common failure reasons and how you can avoid them.  What is Parging Parging is a coating applied to masonry surfaces. It is made from a cement-based mortar and is used to protect the surface from weathering and water damage. It also helps to seal the masonry unit and prevent moisture from entering the unit. It can be used on concrete walls, floors, and ceilings. It is often used to cover up defects in the concrete surface or to prepare the surface for painting or other finishes. Importance of Parging This is generally done to protect the surface from weathering, to provide a finished appearance, or to fill minor surface irregularities. Parging is a very effective way to seal and insulate the wall. It creates a solid surface that can be painted or covered with wallpaper. Reasons for Parging Failure The most common reasons parging fails are improper installation, using the wrong type of parging material, and moisture infiltration. Improper Installation Improper installation can lead to parging failure. The incorrect application of parging mortar can cause it to crack and flake off the surface of the walls. In addition, if the substrate is not properly prepared before parging is applied, air pockets can form between the substrate and the parging mortar, which can also lead to failure. Incorrect Material The incorrect type of parging material can cause failure by not adhering to the substrate properly or by flaking off over time. If the material is not able to stick to the surface, it may fall off, creating an uneven appearance or exposing the substrate beneath. If the parging material flakes off, it can create a number of problems, such as allowing moisture penetration, which can lead to corrosion or rust. Moisture Infiltration Moisture infiltration is the main cause of parging failure. The water causes the mortar to erode and the bricks to deteriorate. This can eventually lead to the collapse of the wall. How to Prevent Parging Failure? There are a few ways to prevent parging failure. Let’s discuss them one by one: Bonding Agents Bonding agents are used in parging to prevent failure. The bonding agent helps the parging adhere to the surface, which prevents it from flaking or peeling off. By using a bonding agent, you can ensure that your parging will last for years. Thicker Parge Coat Thicker coats of parge can help to prevent parging failure by providing a more robust surface that is less likely to be damaged. Additionally, a thicker coat can help to disguise any underlying damage that may have occurred, helping to keep the parge in good condition for longer. Clean and Dirt-Free Surface A clean and dust-free surface is important for preventing parging failure because it prevents the build-up of debris that can clog the pores of the parge coat, preventing it from bonding properly to the substrate. It also allows for proper application of the parge coat, providing a smooth, even finish. Dry Parge Coat Parging failure can occur when the parge coat is not completely dry before the next layer is applied. This can cause the new layer to crack and peel away from the old layer. A completely dry parge coat will prevent this by ensuring that the binder in the parge coat will not be diluted by water and will form a strong bond with the underlying surface. What to Do if Parging Fails? If parging fails, it is often necessary to remove the old parge coat and reapply a new one. This can be a difficult and time-consuming process. If you are having trouble with your parging, it is best to consult a masonry repair contractor to help you get the job done right. Hiring a professional like us to repair the parge on your home is a wise decision. This will allow us to assess the damage and make the necessary repairs to protect your home from further damage. By hiring Atlantic Brick and Stone, you can be sure that the job will be done correctly and that your home will be protected. Get Your Flue Liner Replacement Estimate Online Now! 506-304-0771 atlanticbrickandstone@gmail.com Request an Estimate

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