Efflorescence causes the (white powder)

by Michael Olding

If you own a brick home and have a white powdery substance on some of your brick, block or stone then you have what is called in the trade, efflorescence.

It is a problem?  Well it can be.  Is it serious?  Well it can be but not usually.  Can I fix the cause of this problem?  Yes you can but first let’s try to define what this substance is and then offer some solutions on how to prevent its’ occurrence. Read more

Black mold on your masonry

by Michael Olding

Brick sealers choosing wisely

by Michael Olding

I have developed a healthy respect for the amount of damage sun and water can do to building materials over a short period of time.  Even the great Pyramids constructed of solid, quarried stone have fallen prey to the constant barrage of wind, rain and ultra-violet light.

So if you want to protect the masonry on your home or business and shield yourself from the expensive damage these natural forces can cause, read these tips.  They will help you to decide if sealing your masonry is a prudent choice. Read more

A hat for your chimney

by Michael Olding

It has been said that if you got out into the rain without your hat on, your head will get wet!  Pretty simple idea isn’t it… but you know what?  As simple as it is, it is true.

Like a hat for your head, a chimney crown is a hat for your chimney.  The purpose of the crown is to shed rain water from the top of the chimney and to keep it from entering into the chimney shell; keeping it dry.  Let’s take a look at the different types of masonry crowns used widely today… ok? Read more

Chimney stains – solutions?

by Michael Olding

Have you looked at your masonry chimney lately?  If so you have probably noticed some discoloration throughout the chimney brick or stone, particularly in the upper portion of the structure.  This is a sure sign of excessive water infiltration into the chimney shell and if not taken care of can lead to costly damage with premature deterioration. Read more

Hidden cost of painted brick

by Michael Olding

Homeowners often update the appearance of their homes with a coat of fresh paint.  However if you are considering painting the ‘bricks’ on your home then there are a few things you should consider before you break out the spray guns and throw a party! Read more

Mold & Grime

This area is one of the worst for mold and grime and given enough time you will find it growing on just about any piece of masonry ever constructed. Is it bad? Well, yes. Beside the inherent health risks it can pose to children (which we can’t address here) the damage, though not immediately obvious, can be severe. To much water in any masonry surface is just asking for trouble. Read more

Brick Sealers

Protecting your masonry today with a quality masonry sealer will save you thousands tomorrow in unwanted repairs particularly if you have a very porous masonry wall that sucks in water. Usually you can tell by the sign of damage exhibited on the wall such as missing mortar joints, pieces of bricks laying on the ground or the wall appearing as if it is wearing down. Read more