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Identifying Common Causes of Water Damage Behind Brick Walls

brick repair services in Scarborough

Water damage behind brick walls is a common problem that can cause major structural damage to homes and businesses. Identifying the source of water damage behind brick walls can be difficult, as it is often hidden from view. However, it is important to identify the source of the water damage in order to prevent future damage and to ensure that the repairs are long-lasting. This article will provide an overview of the common causes of water damage behind brick walls and tips for identifying these issues.

 

  1. Poor Drainage

 

Poor drainage is one of the most common causes of water damage behind brick walls. This can occur when the soil around the building is not graded properly or when gutters and downspouts are not installed or maintained properly. Improper grading can cause water to pool near the foundation of the building and can seep into the brick walls. Improperly installed or maintained gutters and downspouts can cause water to accumulate near the foundation and seep into the brick walls.

 

  1. Plumbing Leaks

 

Plumbing leaks are another common cause of water damage behind brick walls. Leaks can occur in the pipes that supply water to the building or in the pipes that carry wastewater away from the building. Leaks can occur due to age, wear and tear, or damage to the pipes. If a leak is not repaired quickly, it can cause water to accumulate behind the brick walls and cause significant water damage.

 

  1. Foundation Cracks

 

Those little cracks you see in the foundation of your home can be more than just a cosmetic issue. If they’re not repaired, they can let water seep into the walls of your home and eventually cause water damage. Water damage from foundation cracks can be difficult to detect since it’s happening behind the walls. But, if you notice any signs of water damage, it’s important to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

 

  1. Wind-Blown Rains

 

Rain can cause water damage in your home, even if it’s not directly hitting your walls. If the wind is blowing hard enough, it can blow rain into windows and doors, which can then seep into the walls of your home. This can be especially problematic if your windows and doors are not properly sealed. To prevent this type of water damage, it’s important to inspect and repair any gaps or cracks in your windows and doors.

 

  1. Mortar Deterioration

 

Mortar deterioration is another common cause of water damage behind brick walls. Mortar is a cement-like material that is used to hold bricks together and can become weakened over time due to age, environmental conditions, and water exposure. This type of water damage is often seen on the lower portions of the wall and can be identified by crumbling mortar or gaps between the bricks.

 

Conclusion

 

Understanding the common causes of water damage behind brick walls is key to being able to take preventative measures to protect your home from potential water damage. These can all be identified by examining the wall for signs of water damage or moisture, looking for visible signs of leaking pipes, and having a professional inspect the wall for further signs of damage. Taking these steps can help to identify and address water damage before it becomes a major issue.

 

When it comes to home restoration services in Toronto, trust only Red Robin Masonry to provide the highest quality and most reliable services available. We offer first-class masonry restoration, repair, and installation services for all types of brick, stone, and masonry walls and structures. Whether you need stonework or brick repair services in Scarborough, we have the expertise and experience to get the job done right. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.

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5 Reasons You Should Invest in Natural Stone for Your Home

masonry services in Toronto

Natural stone has been used for centuries in architecture and design, and its popularity has only grown recently. Natural stone offers many benefits, making it an ideal choice for those looking to upgrade their home. From its beauty and durability to its many uses, natural stone is a great investment.

 

If you don’t know what natural stone is, it is simply a type of construction material that has been used for centuries. It is created from natural rocks and minerals in various shapes, sizes, and colours. Natural stone has many attractive characteristics, such as durability, aesthetic value, and timelessness, that make it a popular choice for many construction projects.

 

That said, if you’re looking for a great investment for your home, here are the many reasons natural stone is a smart investment to make:

 

  1. Durability

 

Natural stone is one of the most durable materials in your home. It is extremely resistant to wear and tear and can last for many years with minimal maintenance. This makes it a great investment for your home since it will not need to be replaced anytime soon. Do note that it still requires proper care to stay looking good, but apart from that, it’ll last you essentially your lifetime.

 

  1. Aesthetic Appeal

 

Natural stone has an elegant, timeless look that adds a touch of sophistication to any room. Whether you choose marble, granite, or limestone, each type of stone has its own unique beauty that will give your home an elegant, luxurious look. The best part is, while trends change over time, natural stone is just one of those materials that seem to outlast them all.

 

  1. Versatility

 

Natural stone is extremely versatile and can be used in many ways in your home. From countertops and flooring to walls and fireplaces, natural stone can be used to create a stunning, one-of-a-kind look. Really, the choice is up to you, and thanks to its properties, it can be used in so many ways quite effectively.

 

  1. Low Maintenance

 

Natural stone is incredibly easy to maintain. It requires regular cleaning and occasional sealing to keep it looking great. This makes it a great investment since you won’t have to spend much time or money on upkeep.

 

  1. Cost-Effective

 

Natural stone is actually quite cost-effective. It may seem expensive upfront, which we cannot ignore. But you get what you pay for, and with that higher upfront cost, you’re getting something that will last for many years to come. This simply means you don’t have to make additional investments but simply maintain the natural stone, which is cheap and easy to do! This translates to plenty of money saved in the long run.

 

Conclusion

 

Overall, natural stone is a great choice for any home, all thanks to its beauty, durability, and low maintenance requirements. It can be used as flooring, countertops, facades, and more, and it’s easy to customize with different finishes and colours. Plus, it’s cost-effective in the long run, making it a great investment. If you’re looking for a timeless and timelessly beautiful addition to your home, natural stone is the way to go!

 

Red Robin Masonry is your trusted masonry company, offering incredible services that cover brickwork, chimney work, and more. If you are looking for masonry services in Toronto for your natural stone needs, request a quote from us today.

 

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What Are the Tell-tale Indicators of Masonry Issues

masonry services in Toronto

Even if there hasn’t been recent physical damage to your home or place of business, it’s still crucial to regularly check the brickwork to ensure it’s still standing. 

 

Bricks and stones will eventually decay despite being durable materials that can withstand time. It can be simple to ignore masonry damage when it first appears until it has proceeded to a much more serious stage and requires more extensive repairs. 

 

Here are a few indicators: masonry problems in your building may need to be corrected before they worsen, and where to find home restoration services in Toronto. 

 

Cracks Near Windows and Doors

 

Even though your windows and doors aren’t composed of stone or brick, they can still be trusted as early warning signs of more serious issues. 

 

When masonry, such as crumbling mortar, fails to keep moisture out, humidity seeps into a building’s internal walls, compromising the stability of the structure. This flaw will eventually show up as moving window sills or edge cracks.

 

A recognisable sign of a shifting wall, which can be brought on by anything from interior damage to a sinking foundation, are fissures that extend outward from the corner of a door.

 

Crumbling Brickwork

 

If your brickwork is starting to crack, that is the most obvious sign that it needs to be fixed. Even though you should pay attention to every crack you notice, some are frequently not a problem, while others are red flags for more severe issues.

 

Minor cracks or gaps between the bricks in L-shaped foundation portions are typically not a problem and can be easily patched. 

 

However, if you see significant fractures like those in stairwell steps, you should immediately call a masonry repair expert. This type of crack, which shows that the wall is stressed and aging, is typically caused by something like a clogged gutter forcing water downward.

 

Missing Bricks or Mortar

 

When entire bricks or mortar strips are missing from your building, that is one of the easiest signs that something is wrong. 

 

Since weight distribution is carefully considered throughout the construction of bricks and mortar, missing components show that your building is not operating as it should. The issue will only get worse with time.

 

You must have the area fixed as quickly as possible if bricks or chunks of mortar are missing. 

 

Determine whether the bricks were harmed by moisture damage, high vibrations nearby, or other circumstances with a specialist providing masonry services in Toronto.

 

Sagging or Sticking Out Wall

 

The aesthetic attraction of stone buildings, with their neat small rows and sharp edges, is one of their most alluring features. But if you observe any spots drooping or expanding (internally or externally), it can signify a more serious issue.

 

The weight of the building may not be distributed evenly as it settles, which could result in sagging. Similarly, the house won’t be able to maintain itself if its support structures are insufficient or destroyed. 

 

As a result, walls could begin to sag, altering their original design and ultimately lowering their ability to disperse the power of the building. These places may deteriorate or perhaps collapse if they are not corrected.

 

Sticky Windows and Doors

 

Naturally, everything in your building functions as a unit. This implies that if your doors and windows start acting up, the issue could not be with those components. 

 

If your brickwork is shifting due to foundation problems, water damage, or other problems, your doors and windows could become stuck when you try to open them. They could be more challenging to operate or harder to close. This may be a sign that you need to fix your masonry.

 

Conclusion 

 

Brickwork on your structure should last for many years, but you must take safety measures to ensure any issues are discovered as soon as possible. A professional masonry company in Toronto will give your building new life and maintain it sturdy and resilient for many years.

 

Red Robin Masonry is Toronto’s most trusted masonry company. Our masonry services in Toronto include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework, and much more! Request a quote today!

 

The Top Myths Surrounding Waterproof Chimneys You Must Know

waterproofing services in Scarborough

Chimneys are prone to damage from harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, and sleet, and these elements can cause the materials used in the construction of the chimney to break down more quickly. Waterproofing the chimney can help it to last much longer and prevent costly repairs in the future.

 

Unfortunately, many people doubt the need and purpose of a waterproof chimney. Let us clear up some of these common misconceptions. Read on.

 

“Chimney Caps Are Useless”

 

Chimney caps act as rain hats for chimneys, protecting against rain and other elements to help prevent water damage to the chimney. Without a chimney cap, water can easily seep into the chimney’s bricks and cause damage. To best protect a chimney from water damage, it should be fitted with a stainless or copper chimney cap, a sealed top crown, a vapour-permeable waterproofing application, and proper flashing.

 

“Chimney Exteriors Are Enough Indicator of Condition”

 

Waterproofing is essential to protecting your chimney from moisture. If the exterior looks good, waterproofing can ensure it stays that way. However, you may have noticed some white spots or moss. Moss can grow wherever water collects and takes root. 

 

Even if there is no visible efflorescence or moss, water can still find its way through the smallest cracks. As the water damage increases, the damage to the chimney grows. Waterproofing is key to preventing this kind of interior damage and preserving the good exterior look of your chimney.

 

“Chimney Liners Do Not Need to Be Maintained”

 

Homeowners need to take proper care of their appliances and their chimney liners to protect the masonry structure of the chimney. Having a properly fitted and adequately ventilated chimney liner is essential to preventing water from corroding and deteriorating the masonry bricks. Without a liner, the moisture from the elements of combustion will damage the inside of the chimney walls, leading to structural damage.

 

“Chimneys Can Last for Years Without Waterproofing”

 

Bricks are a solid material used in construction, but if not correctly maintained, weather can damage them over time. If the chimney is older than 10 years, it is likely already showing signs of water damage that can’t be seen from the ground. Tiny cracks will form, allowing water to enter and expand when it freezes. 

 

Almost all masonry chimneys have some cracks at the top. It is best to spend a bit of money now to prevent further damage rather than wait until the damage is visible from the ground and requires a more costly reconstruction.

 

“Chimneys Made of Brick Don’t Need to Be Waterproofed”

 

Bricks are not completely watertight, so it is vital to use a product that is made for masonry to make sure the brick is appropriately protected. If possible, look for a special water repellent that prevents water from entering the brick while still allowing the brick to breathe. This repellent is highly effective at reducing water penetration, making it an ideal choice for homes with brick or masonry chimneys.

 

Final Thoughts 

 

Waterproofing your chimney can be an effective way to prevent water from entering your home. There are several different methods for waterproofing chimneys, such as using a sealant or a repellent or adding a waterproofing membrane. 

 

By waterproofing your chimney, you can protect your home from water damage and reduce the risk of mould and mildew growth. Properly waterproofing your chimney is an essential aspect of home maintenance that should not be overlooked.

 

Are you looking for waterproofing services in Scarborough? Turn to Red Robin Masonry, Toronto’s most trusted masonry company. Our masonry services include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework and much more! Request a quote today.

Learn What Benefits Brick Repointing Can Bring You

masonry company in Toronto

Repointing bricks offers a variety of benefits. It can help maintain the structural integrity of the wall, increase the water resistance of the masonry, and improve the overall look of the wall. Additionally, repointing can also help to prevent further damage from occurring, as well as make the wall stronger and more durable. 

 

Once you have decided to bring in a masonry contractor, it is crucial to understand what advantages they can offer with brick repointing. This procedure may help to maintain the structure and strength of your brickwork, as well as improve its appearance. It can also provide a long-term solution to any problems that may be occurring with your brickwork, increasing its longevity and decreasing the likelihood of further damage in the future.

 

Restoring the Appeal of a Structure

 

Repointing brick is a great way to restore the charm and beauty of a structure’s original appearance. This service can give a building a new look, making it appear just as it did when it was first built. It’s an effective way to enhance the aesthetics of a home or business and can be a worthwhile investment for any property owner.

 

Protecting Wall Integrity

 

Structural integrity is an essential factor in determining a building’s value and how long it can last. As weather changes, the mortar between bricks can start to break down and no longer form a tight seal to protect the property. When this happens, water can get in and cause dampness. To prevent this from happening, a professional masonry expert should be hired to repoint the bricks to protect the wall and keep it standing for years to come.

 

Increasing Property Value

 

No doubt, the value of your house or business will go up if you re-point it. People looking to buy a property will be more likely to purchase one that has already had repairs done rather than having to pay for repairs once they have moved in. Taking care of the property now will save you money in the long run when it is time to sell, and it will also help increase the value of the property.

 

Reducing Maintenance Costs

 

Repointing brickwork can be a great way to ensure a strong and even finish. Instead of trying to patch up small sections of brick as they become worn, a full repointing can be done to provide an even and uniform look that will last for many years. This process can help reduce the need for constant maintenance and repairs, saving time and money in the future.

 

Conclusion 

 

Clearly, brick repointing is a great way to add longevity to your home or commercial building. It helps to protect the brickwork from water damage and normal wear and tear. The process of repointing also helps to keep your brickwork looking great and adds aesthetic value to your building. It is also more cost-effective than replacing the brickwork, which can be expensive. Brick repointing is a great way to ensure the longevity of your brickwork and keep it looking great for years to come.

 

Are you on the lookout for a masonry company in Toronto? Choose Red Robin Masonry, Toronto’s most trusted masonry company. Our masonry services include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework and much more! Request a quote today.