Different Ways Winter Affects Your Masonry Chimney

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Bricks and mortar on the exterior of a well-built stone chimney will progressively succumb to weather-related damage as it ages. Not only do older masonry chimneys deteriorate with age, but even newer masonry chimneys can be damaged if they are not adequately cared for and maintained. Unfortunately, spalling is linked to all symptoms and signs of chimney deterioration.

What Exactly Is Spalling?

Spalling is a process that occurs when the surface layer of a material erodes or is peeled away from the underlying material. Spalling is typically seen in brick and masonry buildings where a significant amount of mortar has been chemically linked to the brick and is then detached from the brick.

What Are the Significant Causes of Spalling During Winter?

Masonry comes into direct contact with the elements of nature, and even severe winter weather can cause damage to masonry surfaces and mortar.

These severe weather conditions affect moisture and temperature levels. For example, temperature fluctuations can cause freeze and thaw cycles on various construction materials. Another major cause of spalling is frost heaving, also known as frost spalling or frost shattering.

Frost spalling is the process where frost expands ice in the masonry. The expansion and contraction caused by tiny ice crystals separate the masonry from the mortar. These ice crystals cause the masonry to move within the cannon and expose the masonry and its thermal insulation.

What Are the Other Effects of Frost Spalling?

Frost shattering can cause bricks to crack and break apart or cause mortar to crack and separate. Frost shattering can be very dangerous as it can cause falling bricks and pieces of mortar and spalling, which can cause serious harm to people and property.

Not only does frost spalling cause masonry surfaces to erode and spall, but the water vapour within the ice crystals can also pass the masonry surface and the thermal insulation, which can cause the insulation to deteriorate and the masonry to freeze and crack.

As the masonry cracks, the thermal insulation can be broken apart by water vapour and moisture, compromising the insulation. That means that the home will lose heat, which can cause a higher heating bill.

How Can Spalling Be Repaired?

Spalling can be repaired using the appropriate masonry patching material. The damaged area of the chimney is smoothed, and the mortar is reset to match the original surface. To remedy this, you can search for chimney repairs near you.

Spalling can also be repaired using a chimney crown. A chimney crown is essentially a metal flashing installed at the top of the chimney to protect it from the elements.

Is It Possible to Work on Masonry in the Winter?

Generally, it is not recommended to work on a masonry structure during the winter months. This is because the temperature and moisture variations can cause additional damage to the chimney.

However, if a new structure is repaired, there is no damage to contend with due to the spalling process. In this case, it may be possible to make the repairs during the winter, as long as it is not too cold or too windy.

Conclusion

The structure may be falling apart before your very eyes, and you may not even be aware of it. If the damage is not repaired, there is a potential for the chimney to collapse, which could cause significant damage and injury to people in your home and the surrounding area.

The longer you wait to repair spalling and restoration on your masonry chimney, the higher the cost will be. While some spalling can be repaired quickly and with a low price, the longer you wait, the more significant the damage will become.

Red Robin Masonry is Toronto’s most reputable masonry company. Our masonry services include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework, and more. If you are looking for reliable chimney repair services in Toronto, contact our team today!

Everything You Need to Know about Cleaning Your Chimney

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Your chimney is an exhaust system that prevents heat, moisture, and smells from entering your home. Because of this, it sometimes gets sooty and must be cleaned regularly.

Here are some of the important reasons you should keep your chimney clean:

  • Safety

A dirty chimney full of soot can be a serious fire hazard. The fire may not have enough oxygen to keep burning as it gets full. That’s why your chimney will start to smoulder and could catch fire. The fire could burn from your chimney and spread to your house, causing damage and possibly injuring people.

  • Soot

Soot is a byproduct of combustion and is made up of solid particles of carbon. When the soot is allowed to build up, it will restrict airflow and cause a backdraft.

A backdraft, or smoke explosion, is caused when the chimney cannot pull the smoke up, and it builds up inside, causing a sudden and complete reversal of the airflow. This can be extremely dangerous and lead to injury or death.

  • Creosote

Creosote is rust that forms when moisture mixes with the carbon inside the chimney. It can spread to nearby surfaces, damaging and even destroying them.

  • Poor Performance

A dirty chimney will not work as well. It will not be able to pull the smoke up or expel it well. It will be hard for the smoke to get out. This will mean that your fire will be smouldering, which can cause a fire.

How Often Should You Have Your Chimney Cleaned?

Once a year. It is recommended to have annual maintenance that includes cleaning and inspection.

Can You Clean Your Chimney Yourself?

Of course, you can! There are many do-it-yourself kits in the market that you can use. But remember, they do not usually include a full inspection, so you will not know if your chimney has some cracks or problems. It is always better to have a professional do it.

There are many things that can go wrong when you clean your chimney yourself. You can get hurt, your house can get damaged, or you can even start a fire. So always be careful, especially when dealing with gas or fire.

How Do You Clean the Inside of a Chimney?

You need to clean the inside of the chimney to remove the soot, which is made up of the solid particles of carbon.

It is recommended to use a chimney brush for inside cleaning. You can use a smaller brush for the flue and a larger brush for the inside of the chimney.

You can use a sturdy brush, such as a wire brush, stiff-bristled broom, or even a mop. If you have a shop vacuum or a wet-dry vacuum, you can attach it to a brush to get the job done faster. After brushing, use a vacuum to vacuum all the loose material.

In a Nutshell

If you are serious about safety, then you will need to clean your chimney annually. It is the best way to keep it in good shape to work correctly. And it is always good to hire a professional, instead of doing it yourself.

When it comes to chimney repair services in Toronto, Red Robin Masonry has you covered. We are the most trusted masonry company in the area. Contact us today!

The Basics of Maintaining and Caring For Your Brickwork

Brick is one of the most common building materials in the world, and it can come in a variety of colours and textures. While it’s commonly used for exterior walls, it can also be used to make floors, veneers and countertops.

Breaking Down the Basic Elements of Bricks

It is made from clay, sand and water. The mixture is heated to remove the water and make it more solid before it’s cast into moulds. Most bricks are fired at extremely high temperatures, which causes the clay to harden. However, the bricks still contain microscopic pores that track water and enter the brick.

The porous material causes the brick to crumble and disintegrate over time. While the water can cause discoloration and efflorescence, it also causes serious structural damage to the brick.

Common Brick Damages You Should Watch Out For 

Moss, Mould, and Mildew Growth 

Moss, mould and mildew from when water is seeping into the brick. Water can leak into the walls and then into the brick, causing it to erode and create holes. These holes can allow toxic mould, mildew, and bacteria to grow, becoming a serious health risk and leading to severe allergic reactions or respiratory problems.

To prevent damage, you’ll need to evaluate your home to see where the water is coming in. Focus on the roof, windows, and pipes, and make sure these areas are sealed properly to protect your brickwork from turning into a breeding ground for moss, mould, and mildew.

Water Damage 

When water is seeping into the pores of the brick, it can cause serious damage. This water can cause the mortar joints to loosen and break apart, which can cause your bricks to shift and separate from each other.

To prevent this from happening, you’ll need to monitor your brickwork to see where the water is tracking into. If you have cracks, holes, or gaps in your brickwork, you’ll need to call in a professional specialist to seal your brick and prevent water damage.

Common Brick Maintenance You Should Know

Repointing the Brickwork’s Mortar Joints

The mortar joints are the small gaps between your bricks that hold them together and anchor them to the wall. Over time, mortar joints can dry out and crack, which weakens the connection your bricks have with one another.

As the joints dry out, water seeps into the brick, loosening the mortar that holds the brick in place. This can cause your bricks to shift and separate from one another, leading to water damage and cracks.

To prevent water damage and other issues, you’ll need to repoint the joints between your bricks. Rather than replacing the mortar, repointing is done by applying new mortar to the joints. This allows you to fix the cracks and keep the mortar drying out.

Proper Paint Removal for Brickwork

Most bricks are covered with a layer of paint, which is the layer that’s exposed to the elements and damages over time. When the paint is damaged and flaking off, you may need to remove it or apply a new layer.

However, removing paint from bricks is a job that is best left to professionals as the process requires industry-standard tools and technical know-how to pull it off properly.

The Bottom Line: The Importance of Giving Your Home’s Brickwork TLC

Maintaining your home’s brickwork is an important factor in maintaining your home’s value and longevity. It often goes unnoticed, but these bricks are just as important to your home as the exterior and interior. Because they stand the test of time, your home’s brickwork deserves to be treated like the important asset it is.

Why Work with Red Robin Masonry?

Your home is undeniably one of your biggest investments. So when it comes to maintenance and repairs, it’s best to work with the right contractors to ensure that all your home projects are done with excellent technique and service.

Red Robin Masonry is the most respected and trusted masonry company in Ontario. Our services include chimney and fireplace services, tuckpointing, parging, brickwork, stonework, and concrete and foundation services.

If you’re looking for brick repair services in Scarborough, give us a call at 416-206-8859 and ask for a quote today!

Professional Masonry Options beyond the Brick Wall

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All over the world, from the pyramids of Giza to the Panama Canal, you can see evidence of masonry. Despite being one of the earliest known forms of construction, people still use masonry today. The passage of time has not rendered masonry any less relevant; in fact, the opposite is true; quality masonry is more relevant today than ever before.

Masonry is an incredible way to build strong and sturdy structures, and in many settings, it’s also the most aesthetically pleasing option available. Many probably imagine regular brick walls and home foundations when thinking about masonry services. It is a fundamental aspect of the trade, but other options are available.

Here are a few masonry options that go beyond the brick wall.

Professional Masonry Options

Masonry services are more than laying bricks for interior and exterior walls. It can also add a bit of class and elegance to a space.

Masonry Pavers

Also known as Belgian block pavers, masonry pavers are exactly what they sound like: pavement that uses brick as its material. Why would anyone choose a brick road when they could pick a cheaper, longer-lasting option like asphalt or concrete? The answer is not only style, but masonry pavers are also long-lasting solutions to your problems.

Cultured Stones

Cultured stone, also known as engineered or faux stone, is a combination of cement and other ingredients. This material is poured into a specific mould then tinted to give it the appearance of real stones.

The effect is beautifully natural in appearance, and the configurations and designs can be customized for outdoor and indoor applications. Cultured stone is an excellent option for durability and unparalleled aesthetic value. Plus, you can use it for home interiors and exteriors.

Fireplace Installation

When considering adding a fireplace to your home, you may often assume it’s an expensive and challenging project. It’s not!

Just ask a masonry specialist in your area about costs and options when you get the chance. You might be surprised—there are lots of possibilities, and before you know it, you could be sitting in front of a crackling fire on a cold winter night!

Choosing the Right Masonry Contractor for You

Many search results will pop up when you search for masonry contractors near you on the internet. Some of them are reputable and reliable. Others may fall a bit short on their execution. This is why finding the right contractor is important.

When you want to hire the perfect masonry contractor, here are some tips for you:

  • Look through contractor websites.
  • Check if the contractor’s specialization and service offerings match your needs.
  • Read client reviews, testimonials, and the like.
  • Browse contractor’s project photos when available.
  • Request quotes from at least three companies.
  • Compare quotations.

Conclusion

Masonry work can be done quickly and easily, so long as you work with the right masonry contractor. There are many available options, and in some cases, masonry can be cheaper and more aesthetically pleasing than other options. Regardless of whether you’re looking to build a new home or make some major repairs, talk to a masonry specialist near you. You’ll be glad you did!

Red Robin Masonry is one of the most trusted masonry companies in Toronto, ON. Our experienced and highly qualified team can handle it all for you, from interior and exterior walls to chimneys and pavements. Call us today for high-quality masonry services you can trust!