Brick and stone are very durable building materials and can last well over one-hundred years, with proper maintenance. The mortar, or grout, in between the bricks and stones will only last for twenty to thirty years. Prolonged exposure to the elements, improper maintenance, mold or bacteria growth, and any type of damage will cause the mortar to weaken, crumble, or crack. The result can be loose stones, excess moisture getting into the walls, and damage to the interior structure of the building. Experienced Stone Masonry Restoration in Boston MA can repair or replace mortar to keep the building intact, and the stones are looking new. Replacing or repairing stones and bricks may also be required, depending on the extent of the damage.
Scheduled inspections and maintenance of stone and brick buildings, walls, chimneys, fireplaces, patios, walkways, and driveways can eliminate structural damage by repairing leaks or cracks, replacing small areas if needed, and keeping the area clean. The most common method of stone masonry restoration in Boston MA is tuck-pointing. The basic principle is to rake out old mortar to a specific depth and replace it with new mortar. The process is time consuming and labor intensive, but will restore the structure to full strength, bring back the natural beauty of the stones, and be more cost-effective than replacing the entire wall or chimney. An experienced mason can perform tests and do evaluations on the mortar to determine the original ingredients used. Matching the mortar is necessary to sustain the structural integrity of the area, and to ensure it all blends well when completed.
Other methods include patching and replacement of broken or crumbling areas, grout injections, epoxy crack repair, and creating an additional facade to support the existing structure. Methods for cleaning the bricks and stones include chemical striping and detergents, and low or high pressure washing of the structure. The amount of pressure used in washing depends on the size, type, and depth of the structure or walkways. Neglecting buildings and driveways can lead to the complete deterioration of the bricks and stones, so do not wait to schedule an inspection of the area. Customers can Visit website for details on restoration methods, and to get a free estimate for any restoration project.
