Brickwork is a durable and attractive building material, especially in homes and historical areas in Markham such as Main Street (Unionville and Markham), but it's not immune to wear and tear. Over time, bricks can crack, crumble, or become discoloured, which can compromise the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your home or building. Here are the top 5 signs that your brickwork needs repair, and how masonry contractors can help restore it to its former glory.
i) Cracks in the brick. One of the most obvious signs that your brickwork needs repair is the presence of cracks. Cracks can occur for a variety of reasons, including settling of the foundation, moisture damage, or even just normal wear and tear. If left untreated, cracks can lead to further damage and compromise the structural integrity of your building. A masonry contractor can assess the severity of the cracks and determine the best course of action, whether it's simply filling them in or replacing the damaged bricks altogether. ii) Loose or missing bricks. Another sign that your brickwork needs repair is the presence of loose or missing bricks. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather damage, poor installation, or even just age. Loose or missing bricks can lead to further damage and compromise the structural integrity of your building. A masonry expert can assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action, whether it's simply replacing the missing bricks or rebuilding the entire section of brickwork. iii) Water damage or stains. Water damage or stains on your brickwork can be a sign of a bigger problem, and is not uncommon in a climate like we see in Markham and the rest of Ontario. It could be caused by a leak in your roof or gutter system, which can lead to water seeping into your brickwork and causing damage. This can lead to mold growth and further deterioration of your brickwork. A "masonry contractor near me" in Markham can identify the source of the water damage and repair the affected area, as well as provide recommendations for preventing future water damage. iv) Efflorescence. Efflorescence is a white, powdery substance that appears on the surface of brickwork. It is caused by the migration of salt deposits to the surface of the brickwork, which can be a sign of water damage. When water seeps into the brickwork, it dissolves salts within the bricks and carries them to the surface. As the water evaporates, the salts are left behind, causing efflorescence. If left untreated, efflorescence can lead to further damage and deterioration of the brickwork. A masonry professional can identify the source of the water damage and repair the affected area, as well as provide recommendations for preventing future water damage and efflorescence. v) Uneven or sagging bricks. If you notice that your brickwork is uneven or sagging, it could be a sign of structural damage. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as foundation issues, water damage, or poor construction. Masons can assess the extent of the damage and provide solutions to repair and reinforce the affected area. Ignoring this issue can lead to further damage and potentially dangerous situations, so it's important to address it as soon as possible. Call Masonry Markham if you need brick restoration or brick repair services by experienced professionals.
0 Comments
Parging can offer waterproofing benefits for your home's foundation. Parging is a process of applying a thin layer of mortar to the surface of a foundation wall. This layer can help to protect the wall from moisture and water penetration, which can easily happen in a moderately high precipitation city like Markham, causing damage over time.
Parging can also help to improve the appearance of your foundation walls. Over time, foundation walls can become stained or discolored due to exposure to the elements. It can be used to cover up these blemishes and give your foundation walls a clean, uniform appearance. In addition to waterproofing benefits, parging can also help to reinforce your foundation walls. Over time, foundation walls can develop cracks or other damage, which can weaken the structure of your home. Parging can be used to repair these areas and reinforce the wall, helping to prevent further damage in the future. Overall, parging can be an effective way to protect your foundation walls from water damage and improve the appearance of your home's exterior. If you're concerned about moisture or water penetration in your foundation walls, it's a good idea to consult with a professional contractor masonry in Markham, such as Masonry Markham, to discuss your options for parging and other waterproofing solutions. Flagstone driveways, walkways, and patios are popular choices for homeowners who want to add a touch of natural beauty to their outdoor spaces. Flagstone is a type of sedimentary rock that is easy to work with, durable, and comes in a variety of colours and textures. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of flagstone driveways, walkways, and patios, as well as some tips on how to maintain them. If you're in need of professional patio flagstone, driveway or walkway installation, give our masonry contractors a call at Masonry Markham. Now let's get to it:
Benefits of Flagstone Installation:
Retaining walls are more than just decorative features - they serve an important purpose in controlling erosion and can help stop soil from sliding down slopes. To ensure the maximum longevity for their retaining walls, it’s important to consider proper drainage during construction.
Benefits of Proper Drainage During Retaining Wall Construction. Proper drainage during retaining wall construction is essential for preventing long-term damage and ensuring the structure’s longevity. Without a suitable drainage system in place, water will accumulate behind the wall, seep into its base, erode its stonework, and eventually lead to structural failure. Installing a proper drainage solution can keep water away from the base of the wall and help prevent costly repairs down the line. Understanding the Design Process for Proper Drainage. When it comes to proper drainage, one of the most important aspects is understanding the design process and which drainage solutions may be best-suited for your retaining wall. Considerations such as the size, slope, and soil conditions of the area can all play a role in how you should design your drainage system. It’s also important to consult qualified engineers or contractors who have experience with these types of projects. How to Install and Maintain Gutter System Components. When it comes to managing water runoff and keeping your retaining wall safe from damage, gutter systems can play an important role. In order to correctly install and maintain your gutters, you must carefully select the right components for your system, including downspouts, splash blocks, drainage pipes, and gutters. Following manufacturer instructions when installing these components is essential in order to ensure proper drainage and protect your retaining wall against long-term water damage. The Role of Soil, Rocks and Plants in Proper Drainage. It is important to consider the effects that soil, rocks and plants can have on proper drainage. Planting vegetation near your retaining wall can be beneficial, as it helps protect against erosion and absorb excess water. Utilizing landscape fabric and gravel around the base of your retaining wall also helps to keep soil in place, preventing it from being washed away with runoff. Additionally, placing larger rocks or stones near the wall base can help direct water away from your retaining wall and toward a drainage area. Tips for Effective Water Management During Retaining Wall Construction. One of the most important steps in proper retaining wall construction is effective water management. It’s essential that any rainwater or moisture flowing down your slopes be quickly drained away to prevent long-term damage to your wall and ensure its longevity. To do this, proper drainage techniques must be implemented before, during and after construction of the retaining walls. Investing in a good drainage system will help protect your wall from damage while keeping it safe and sturdy. If you need a professional retaining wall contractor in Markham, give Masonry Markham a call to discuss your specific needs and we will be happy to work with you. Over time, your building's exterior may start to show signs of wear and tear with cracks, gaps or missing bricks. This could happen due to a variety of reasons like harsh weather, natural decay or even poor maintenance. However, fortunately, there are several measures you can take to recover the structural integrity of your home such as parging, tuckpointing or brick repair. Read on to learn more about these options and how they can help restore your building's exterior.
What are parging, tuckpointing and brick repair? Parging, tuckpointing, and brick repair are all methods used to restore the exterior of homes made of bricks or stone. Parging, also known as stucco, is an outer layer that is applied to the rough surface of a masonry wall as a protective coating against weather and other environmental factors. Tuckpointing is a process in which damaged or aged mortar joints between bricks are removed and replaced with new mortar to strengthen the wall's integrity. Brick repair involves repairing or replacing missing or damaged bricks in walls, chimneys, or other structures. All three methods can help improve the structural stability and prolong the life of your building's exterior. Look for cracks and gaps in the masonry. If your home's exterior is showing signs of aging, it’s important to look for cracks and gaps in the masonry. Cracks can occur due to weather damage or soil expansion and contraction, while gaps could be the result of worn-out mortar joints. These openings can lead to water infiltration that causes further damage to the structure over time. In addition, if you notice any bulging or bowing in your walls, it may indicate a more serious problem that requires immediate attention from a professional. By inspecting your home's masonry regularly, you can identify problems early on and prevent costly repairs in the future. Check for missing bricks. One of the signs that your home may need brick repairs is the presence of missing bricks. Missing bricks not only look unattractive, but they can also compromise the structural integrity of your home's masonry. Whether it's due to age, weather damage or other factors, a missing brick leaves a gap that allows moisture and air to seep in – potentially leading to more serious issues down the line. If you notice any missing bricks on your home's exterior walls or chimney, don't hesitate to contact a professional mason for an inspection and repair. Examine the mortar joints between bricks. Another important sign that your home may need parging, tuckpointing or brick repairs is the condition of the mortar joints between the bricks. Over time, these joints can deteriorate due to weather exposure and other factors, leading to gaps or cracks that can allow moisture and air infiltration. If you notice any deterioration in the mortar joints on your home's exterior walls or chimney, it's important to have them evaluated by a professional mason as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent bigger problems down the line and help keep your home in good repair for years to come. Reach out to a professional for repairs. If you are noticing any of the above signs, it's important to reach out to a professional as soon as possible. Attempting to fix these issues on your own can lead to further damage and may end up costing more in the long run. A professional mason can accurately identify the extent of the problem and recommend appropriate repairs. They also have access to specialized tools and materials needed for effective and long-lasting repairs. Don't hesitate to contact qualified professional masonry contractors in Markham like Masonry Markham if you are experiencing any issues with your home's exterior walls or chimney. Brick veneer is a popular choice for homeowners looking to add a touch of elegance and durability to their homes. Brick veneer is made of thin, lightweight bricks that are applied to the exterior of a home, giving it the appearance of a solid brick construction. While it has many benefits, it also has its drawbacks. Here are some of the pros and cons:
Pros:
Cons:
In conclusion, brick veneer has many benefits, and also has its drawbacks. Before choosing brick veneer for your home's exterior, consider these pros and cons carefully to ensure that it's the right choice for your needs and budget. If you need professional bricklaying services, consider contacting Masonry Markham for a professional and meticulous construction. Chimney services are an essential part of maintaining your home's safety and functionality. Here are some reasons why you should consider investing in chimney services:
Overall, investing in chimney services can provide numerous benefits, including preventing fires, improving air quality, extending the lifespan of your chimney, and saving you money in the long run. If you need chimney repair services, or a chimney installation, give our masonry company a call at Masonry Markham. Are you thinking about building a retaining wall? Whether it's to prevent soil erosion or create more usable space in your backyard, retaining walls can be a great addition to any outdoor area. In this blog post, we're going to discuss the basics of retaining wall construction.
First things first, let's talk about materials. Retaining walls can be made from a variety of materials, including concrete, brick, natural stone, and wood. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it's important to consider factors such as cost, durability, and aesthetics when choosing the right material for your project. Once you've decided on a material, it's time to get started on the construction process. Here are the general steps for building a retaining wall: A) Plan and design: Before you start digging, it's important to plan out your retaining wall design. This includes determining the height and length of the wall, as well as the angle of the slope it will be supporting. B) Prepare the site: Once you have your design in place, it's time to prepare the site. This involves clearing the area of any vegetation or debris, and ensuring that the ground is level and compacted. C) Excavate: Now it's time to start digging. The ground in Markham is still frozen in February and part of March, so the best time to dig is when the soil is soft enough, from early spring to late fall in December. Excavate a trench for the base of the wall, making sure it's level and wide enough to accommodate the first row of blocks or stones. D) Build the base: Lay the first row of blocks or stones in the trench, using a level to ensure they are straight and level. You may need to use a base material such as crushed stone or gravel to provide additional stability. E) Build the wall: Continue laying rows of blocks or stones, making sure to stagger the joints for added strength. As you build, use a level to ensure that the wall remains straight and level. F) Backfill and compact: Once the wall is complete, backfill the area behind the wall with soil, and use a compactor to ensure that it is tightly packed. G) Finish: Depending on your preference, you can add finishing touches such as caps or veneer to your retaining wall to give it a more polished look. While building a retaining wall may seem like a daunting task, with the right materials and a bit of know-how, it can be a great DIY project. However, if all this seems to much to take on, give us a call at Masonry Markham and we can utilize our vast experience to be your retaining wall contractors. When it comes to home renovations, most people think of the kitchen and bathroom first. But a fireplace is a huge investment that's worth considering if you have enough space for one in your home. A masonry fireplace can add value to your home, make it more comfortable and cozy during winter months, and even reduce heating costs. However, before committing to a masonry fireplace installation project there are certain things you should consider first—things that might not cross your mind until after the fact!
Do you know how many bricks should be in your fireplace? The amount of bricks required for your chimney depends on the size of your fireplace. For example, if you have an 8x8-foot brick firebox, then you'll need 144 bricks. But if that same 8x8-foot brick firebox is 16 inches deep instead of 8 inches deep and has double walls with an air space between them (an insulation method sometimes used by builders), then it will require 192 bricks total. The number of bricks needed also depends on how thick they are--thicker ones take up more space in the oven than thinner ones do--and how tall they are--taller ones take up more space than shorter ones do when they're stacked vertically against each other on all sides except bottom (which must always be open). Is there enough room for the hearth to sit flush against the wall? Before you get a masonry fireplace installation, make sure there's enough room for the hearth to sit flush against the wall. The minimum width of a standard brick hearth is 3 inches. If your new masonry fireplace is going to be installed in an old house with narrow walls, you may need a custom-made brick or stone slab that's wider than 3 inches (you can find these at most home improvement stores). The minimum height for an average-sized mantel is 8 inches above floor level--but if your ceiling is low and there aren't any beams above where you want your mantle installed, we recommend using an 8-inch high mantel instead of one that's lower than this height because it will look better overall when viewed from above by guests who enter into your living room area. Similarly with depths: Most standard fireplaces are built with 6 inch deep surrounds around them; however some homeowners prefer installing larger surrounds so as not only have more space available within which they could place decorative items like plants but also so as not block out too much light coming through windows located nearby - especially during winter months when days become shorter, making rooms darker earlier. Do you want a wood-burning or gas fireplace? When you are choosing a fireplace, the first thing you need to decide is whether you want a wood-burning or gas fireplace. Wood-burning fireplaces are more authentic and will give your home an old-fashioned feel, but they can be messy and difficult to use. Gas fireplaces are easier to use because they don't require logs or kindling; however, they don't give off as much heat as their wood burning counterparts do. They also take up less space than traditional fireplaces so they're great if space is limited in your home or apartment! Gas fireplaces are cleaner than traditional ones because there's no ash produced by burning wood in them; however this isn't always true since some models feature an ash drawer where all clinkers fall into before being disposed of away from harm's way (no more smelly gloves!). The other benefit here is safety: since everything happens inside and is contained, there's no chance of catching anything else on fire. How do you want to use your fireplace? Whether you're looking for an open fireplace, a modern gas fireplace or something in between, there are several things to consider.
When you're looking for a masonry fireplace installation, it's best to ask what the best options are for your space. In addition to checking local building codes and choosing an experienced masonry contractor, there are a few things you should discuss with them before making a decision.
The vast majority of our masonry fireplace construction requests are for indoors, as Markham as strict rules regarding open air fires. They require a special permit 48 hours in advance of the planned burns. If you have any further questions you'd like to ask our masonry fireplace contractors at Masonry Markham, do not hesitate to give us a shout. |
ArchivesCategories |