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| Masons are critical core contractors when you want to build a home that lasts, that glows, that endures. Quality masonry is fundamental for a home, from it's concrete block foundation to the finishing work its fireplaces, chimneys and exterior cladding. The following is an overview of the different projects under the masonry umbrella. |
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Brick |
Brick has long been a meat-and-potatoes building material for constructing strong buildings. Brick is a durable building material that looks good and lasts. Many brick homes have endured the test of time with almost ageless aesthetics.
Brick offers a lot of options. Do your research. Find out how you want your brick home to look. There are different brick designs, patterns, styles and, of course, colors to choose from. Give consideration to how the mortar joint finish will affect the final look. |
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Brick Joint Finishes |
| There are beaded, concave, extruded, flush, grapevine, raked, struck, v-shaped and weathered joint techniques to decide from. |
Brick Mortar Strength |
| The acronym MSNOK highlights the basic mortar types. Type M, Type S, Type N, Type O and Type K mortars each vary in their composition. They thus offer distinct degrees of flexibility, bond strength and compressive strength that make any given one them ideal for a specific job. Some outdoor, some in. Some load-bearing, some not. A skilled and experienced brick-layer knows the best mortar strength for your brick and masonry project. Our masonry contractors have that expertise. |
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Stonework |
Natural Stone, Manufactured Stone and Veneer Masonry |
Stone has long appealed homeowners and builders alike because its unique look adds richness, permanence and beauty to a home.For some natural stone is the only way to go.
However, manufactured stone has opened possibilities for new home construction that weren't there before. For example, manufactured stone can bring you the beauty of real stone at a lower cost. Installed, it can be from one third to half the price of stone. It is also much lighter than natural stone making more projects doable without ties and footings. |
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| Manufactured stone can easily be installed to various substrates including concrete block, rigid insulation, sheathing and open stud framing. |
| Veneer masonry is another product on the market that mimics stones and provides great design options for home builders and for homeowners doing remodeling projects. |
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Grout Techniques |
| The importance of grouting is not to be underestimated. It is just as critical to the finished job as the installation. Color can even be added to the mortar in order to more custom match the stone. When it comes to picking a grout style for your natural or manufactured stone there are several grout technique to choose from. They are: |
| Dry-Stacked or No Joint - Although the stones are mortared to the substrate there is no visible grout between the stones. The stones are precisely planned out and tightly installed. |
| Standard Raked Joints - The inner edges of the stone are almost completely covered, giving protection from moisture. This method is used for outdoor applications and can be either concave or more square. |
| Deep Raked Joints - Deeply raked joints are generally used for indoor applications where weather conditions would not affect the stone. These joints are scraped out more deeply, exposing the inner edges of the stone. |
| Flush Joints - Flush joints provide a smooth look with the mortar being flush with the stone. The joints are filled completely and scraped flat. |
| Overgrout Joints - For an old-world appearance try overgrout joints. The mortar in this technique is smeared over the joints so that it partially covers the top edges of the stones. Once it has set up for about an hour you can strike the joints and use a brush or broom to smooth and clean off any excess mortar. |
Joint Size and Control |
| Another consideration to keep in mind is selecting the joint size that will create the finished product your looking for. With out question it is important to have uniform joints for the job to look professional. The basic sizes are: |
| No Joint - Also called a tight joint. This selection requires a close and exact fit that really allows the stone to take center stage. |
| Small Joint - A small joint is roughly a 1/4-inch joint. This joint choice is often used indoors. |
| Medium Joint - A 1/2-inch joint is considered a medium joint. It is the most common joint option and is used both on the exterior and interior of the home. |
| Large Joint - The large joint is typically 3/4-inch. It is best suited to rustic, farmhouse designs. |
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Concrete Block |
Concrete block foundations have long been a trusted method for building a home that will continue to be stable and strong.
Proper installation is key to yielding superior foundation walls. Rather than being left hollow concrete blocks should be reinforced with steel and filled with concrete for added compressive strength for the home. |
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Gabions |
| Gabions are used for retaining walls and are constructed with large steel mesh baskets that are filled with stone. They allow for free drainage and provide structural support for retaining walls. Whatever your masonry needs we can help you get the contractors you are looking for! |
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Hire a Masonry Contractor |
| A mason job is only as good as the quality of the workmanship that goes into it, regardless of the quality of the product. We can enable you to compare free quotes from masonry contractors and brick-layers in your area. They will be happy to provide examples of their work! |
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