We sometimes forget about the flexibility of concrete masonry is and how efficient it is for construction. In many cases concrete masonry units are the back-up or the support... read more →
Protect Masonry Walls. In my masonry career, I had not heard of spray cork. I know that cork as a material is green, it is renewable, it does not... read more →
Winter construction costs should take into account many items that contribute to installing masonry below the 40 degree temperature guideline. In cold weather at 40 degrees, the hydration of... read more →
Have you seen a building with the brick falling off? How about many cracks on the veneer at the exterior? Helical ties are used in stabilizing parapets, anchoring stone, terracotta,... read more →
In todays’ buildings there are many items that are highly combustible, so having a little or a lot of masonry creates safety within a structure especially in a stairwell, elevator,... read more →
The parapet is where the masonry wall transitions from being an insulated masonry wall to an uninsulated masonry wall. Additionally, the wall is subject to moisture penetration on both... read more →
While commuting home last week, I was passed by a pickup that advertised “Cement Contractor” on the side of the truck. What is a cement contractor? I think it was... read more →
The reason for re-pointing is that mortar lasts roughly between 25-50 years while brick lasts approximately 100+ years. Over a buildings life, foundations settle, caulking becomes dry and brittle,... read more →
Brick is usually selected for its’ color or finish. The color is typically throughout the clay unit. Brick is painted to usually increase light reflection and for decorative purposes.... read more →
This type of crack happens due to the lack of expansion joints in the length of the brick wall. The bricks have expanded horizontally above the head of the... read more →
When we build with brick, concrete block, stone and the many other materials that we use in masonry, we need movement joints. Materials built with cement in their composition,... read more →
I like to watch DIY home shows like This Old House and Holmes on Homes. I like Mike Holmes motto: “If you're going to do... read more →
In October of 2018, the United States Senate passed the Concrete Masonry Products Research, Education and Promotion Act, providing Congressional authorization for the concrete masonry products industry to develop... read more →
Currently it is recommended to clean new masonry within 14- 28 days from installation for type N mortar and 3-7 days for type S mortar. When cleaning masonry, clean the... read more →
In the masonry world this topic comes up seasonally. There are necessary procedures needed to follow for successful installation of masonry in the cold weather. This information is helpful... read more →
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