masonry company in Toronto

6 Common Signs That Indicate Foundation Problems: Our Guide

 

Your home’s foundation is integral to its overall structure, ensuring its stability and long-term durability. However, like any other aspect of your property, your foundation may develop issues over time. 

 

Early detection and timely repair by a masonry company can save you from costly damages and potential hazards. This post will discuss some of the most common signs of foundation problems and what you should look for to protect your home and family.

 

  1. Cracks in Walls, Floors, and Ceilings

 

One of the most apparent signs of foundation problems is the appearance of cracks in your home’s walls, floors, and ceilings. Hairline cracks are relatively normal, as they often result from the natural settling of the house. 

 

However, larger cracks, especially those wider than 1/8 inch, may indicate more severe foundation issues. Pay close attention to any cracks that appear suddenly or worsen over time, as well as those that follow a stair-step pattern along the mortar joints in brick walls.

 

  1. Sloping or Uneven Floors

 

Have you ever noticed your floors appearing uneven or sloping in certain areas of your home? This could be another sign of foundation issues. 

 

A simple way to test this is by using a level on various points of your floor. If you find that it is not level, you may want to consult a foundation repair professional for further evaluation. Keep in mind that some settling is normal, and slight slopes may not always indicate a significant problem. But, if the slope is significant or worsens over time, it may signify a shifting foundation.

 

  1. Sticking Doors and Windows or Not Closing Properly

 

Doors and windows that become difficult to open or close or seem to stick in their frames can also be a sign of foundation problems. As your foundation shifts, it can cause your door and window frames to become misaligned or warped. 

 

This can result in gaps around the edges or difficulty operating them. While sticking doors and windows can also result from humidity and temperature changes, it is essential to rule out foundation issues as the cause.

 

  1. Gaps around Doors, Windows, and Exterior Walls

 

As your foundation settles or shifts, it can cause gaps to form around your home’s doors, windows, and exterior walls. These gaps can indicate structural issues and may also lead to drafts, water damage, and pest infestations. 

Have a masonry company regularly inspect your home’s exterior for gaps and note any changes or widening of these spaces, as this could indicate a worsening foundation problem.

 

  1. Bowed or Leaning Walls

 

If you notice that your home’s walls are bowing or leaning, this can be a serious sign of problems in the foundation. 

 

As it shifts, the pressure on the walls can cause them to bow or lean. In some cases, you may also notice horizontal cracks along the walls, denoting increased pressure on the foundation. Bowed or leaning walls can be a severe issue, and it is crucial to address them as soon as possible to avoid further damage or potential wall collapse.

 

  1. Water Damage or Pooling Water

 

Water damage or pooling water around your home’s foundation can mean drainage problems, which can lead to foundation issues. If water is not adequately directed away from your foundation, it can cause the soil beneath to become oversaturated and expand, putting pressure on the foundation walls. 

 

This can lead to cracks and shifting of the foundation. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are functioning correctly and that water is being directed away from your home’s foundation.

 

Conclusion

 

Detecting foundation issues early on is crucial for maintaining the safety, stability, and value of your home. By watching for the signs mentioned above, you can take preventative measures and address any potential problems before they escalate. If you suspect you may have foundation issues, it is essential to consult professional home restoration services. They can assess the situation and provide the necessary repairs to guarantee your home remains safe and structurally sound.

 

Are you in need of a foundation repair service? Red Robin Masonry strives to be the most reputable and dependable masonry company in Toronto, delivering award-winning home restoration and brick repair solutions. Contact us today for a free estimate!

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!

 

foundation repair in Toronto

Over time, the structure of a house might sag due to a variety of external factors, such as weather changes and unstable soil. This can cause serious structural problems throughout the entire house, ranging from bowing walls and drooping floors to complete foundation failure if it is not discovered and corrected.

 

Results of a professional foundation investigation should be a crucial part of the purchasing process for property buyers. 

 

Knowing how to identify foundation problems early is crucial, whether you intend to sell your house, search for a new one, or stay in your current one for many years. This will save you a lot of time, money, and hassles.

 

The details of your home’s foundation are covered in more detail in the sections below, along with advice on when you should call a foundation repair company.

 

What to Know about Foundations

 

Understanding how to recognize foundation problems before purchasing a home is essential so that you can address them before closing. Request a professional home inspection that covers the foundation to safeguard your investment. 

 

Many states, according to Trulia, demand that homeowners disclose foundation problems when selling their homes.

 

In order to safeguard their investment from present homeowners, buyers should request all the documentation on prior home repairs if the house has had foundation work done. 

 

If there are issues with the foundation, it’s important to create a strategy to fix any small issues as soon as possible in order to prevent them from becoming bigger issues. 

 

Even minor leaks or cracks might signal a bigger foundation issue and spread swiftly. Buyers may ask the seller for a price reduction if significant repairs are required to cover the typical cost in the neighbourhood to make them.

 

Things to Look Out For

 

Here are crucial signs to watch out for to spot foundation difficulties at their earliest stages before they worsen.

 

  • Cracks in columns, walls, or flooring, close to windows or doorways
  • Sticking windows and doors that are harder to open over time
  • Gaps between windows and doors that allow water or pests to enter
  • A crooked chimney
  • Bowing basement walls or sagging or slanting floors
  • A musty stench and mould, rot, or mildew growing in the basement or crawl space
  • A front or back stoop or porch that is sinking
  • Unaccounted-for water damage in various parts of the house

 

The stem wall of your home, which rests on top of its concrete foundation and serves as the framework for the home’s construction, is joined to other walls and floors. 

 

Because of this, a problem with the foundation of the house might result in floor and wall cracking and damage throughout the entire building.

 

Foundation Settlement

 

A foundation will eventually change when the earth beneath a home shrinks and becomes unstable. The contrary, known as foundation heave, happens when soil gradually rises over time, typically as a result of settlement in nearby places. 

 

Additionally, foundation damage can be brought on by hydrostatic pressure, flooding-related water damage, faulty pipes, or inadequate outside drainage.

 

The most typical foundation issues are not just a result of time. In actuality, both the weather and the soil can have a significant impact. Because of this, prospective homeowners must request a professional foundation check before making a purchase. 

 

Contrary to popular belief, a home’s age is not the primary predictor of any concealed foundation issues. Unfortunately, homes of all types and ages can experience foundation problems.

 

Conclusion

 

No matter how adept you are at spotting problems with a home’s foundation, it’s essential to rely on professionals before making a sizable new investment. You may learn what actions to take to secure your foundation and protect your house by getting a free inspection from the top foundation repair specialists in the area.

 

If you need a foundation repair in Toronto, Red Robin Masonry is the company you should call. Our masonry services include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework, and more. Call us right away to get started!

 

6 Signs Your Brickwork is Already Beyond Repair

Brickwork is crucial to the integrity of your home, but over time it can be damaged by extreme weather conditions, physical abuse, and other factors. Whether you notice cracks running along the walls or other signs of damage, it might be time to fix your brickwork before more serious damage occurs. However, sometimes even a simple repair just wouldn’t do it. Check out the following signs that your bricks need a replacement.

Cracks on Corners

Cracks in the corner of a wall or on a building are common problems. Though it’s a little hard to do, try to touch the crack with your finger. A sharp and solid crack will feel sharp on your finger too. That kind of crack means a serious problem. Likewise, a diagonal line to the corner usually means that the foundation is not solid, so the wall is likely to collapse. Make sure that the crack has not deteriorated further before calling a pro to fix the problem.

Missing Bricks

Missing bricks from your wall can sometimes mean that your entire wall is about to collapse. If you notice that some of your bricks are missing, you may want to check for cracks around those areas. It is possible that the larger cracks have already been discovered, and the bricks were already removed to prevent problems.

Bad or Loose Mortar

Loose or bad mortar can be a sign of a more serious problem. It’s a sign that your wall is not properly tied to the foundation of your home. It can also mean that your foundation has shifted or is no longer solid. It’s a sign that a professional should look at it, so never wait for the problem to get worse.

Crumbling of Stucco or Plaster

Plaster and stucco are common in old homes or in homes with Mediterranean-style architecture. They can last for over a century, but if cracks start to form, it’s a sign that your wall is too weak to support your home. It’s a sign that a professional should look into it and make sure that the wall is properly tied to the foundation.

Mildew on Bricks

The presence of mould or mildew on your bricks indicates that there is something honeycombing your bricks. It’s a sign that you need to look deeper into the problem. Mould is often a precursor to serious damage like mud and drywall damage, as well as termite damage. The most effective solution for mildew is to replace your bricks entirely.

Overall Deterioration

It is easy to hide the imperfections of a wall just by putting a coat of paint on it, but even that won’t cover everything. Old and worn-out bricks can be an eyesore, but they can also be a sign that your home is about to collapse. The wall may be too weak to support the roof, especially if it’s a large home. Make sure that you get a professional to look into it as soon as possible to prevent any bigger problems.

Conclusion

If your brickwork is damaged, it’s best to immediately have it repaired before it gets worse or, better yet, replace the bricks if necessary. The longer you wait, the more you’ll pay, and you might have to pay a lot more to fix the problem. Consider hiring a professional if you notice any of these signs and if you aren’t sure what the right solution is.

Red Robin Masonry is an award-winning company with over 30 years of experience as a contractor. Whenever you need brick repair services in Toronto, our team is here to help. Contact us today to request a quote.

Retaining walls are often an essential part of landscaping. The primary purpose of a retaining wall is to hold soil behind it. But there can be many benefits to a retaining wall. For instance, they can improve accessibility, add value to formally unusable properties, and visually enhance a particular space.

While the concept of a retaining wall may seem simple, a few things could go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some of the most common mistakes you can make when building a retaining wall.

Not Hiring a Professional to Design the Wall

There’s more to building a retaining wall than just stacking some concrete blocks. Certain engineering science is involved to ensure that the hydrostatic pressure of the water-laden soil does not end up destroying the wall. By underestimating the engineering involved and designing the wall yourself without professional help, you will most likely end up with a poorly engineered wall. So, it’s best to leave the designing of the retaining wall to the professionals.

Failure to Procure a Permit

In most places, you will need to procure a building permit before you can start work on the retaining wall. However, in some instances, additional requirements may need to be met. For example, you might need to get permits from the community level to the municipal level. Permits from state environmental agencies may also be required.

Improper Wall Construction

When you don’t focus enough on the wall construction, your retaining wall may structurally fail over time. In fact, retaining walls are known for being one of the most frequently ruined construction projects.

There are several mistakes in construction that you could make. For one, not using the correct specialized techniques for your material of choice could be disastrous. To help you avoid this mistake, here are some tips you must be aware of.

When building a stone wall, you’ll need to have a sloped back and other specialized skills. For concrete walls, sufficient rebar is necessary. And for wooden walls, you’ll need to have dead-man anchors. Segmented walls, on the other hand, would require a geogrid to tie them back to the ground. And in general, you must have a well-compacted base and a properly done footer.

Poor Drainage

As mentioned before, hydrostatic pressure could easily destroy your retaining walls. Thus, it’s important to have adequate drainage to relieve this pressure. This is especially true when working with non-pervious walls, such as brick, brick veneer, concrete, and mortared stone.

Typically, retaining walls would require outlet points, a gravel envelope, subsurface drainage along the bottom, and weep drains at the appropriate intervals. But if you have a segmented wall, you may be more at ease when it comes to drainage. This is because segmented walls are dry-stacked and allow the water to flow through.

In Summary

Retaining walls are often one of the most frequently botched construction projects due to the number of things that could go wrong. To ensure your retaining walls can stand strong and firm, you must never underestimate the engineering involved, pay attention to the construction, and provide adequate drainage. And, of course, don’t forget to procure the appropriate permits to start on your project.

Put up a well-designed and well-constructed retaining wall with the help of Red Robin Masonry. We are an award-winning company that provides masonry services in Toronto with a full warranty. At Red Robin Masonry, our top priority is to bring you the quality and service you deserve. Get a quote now!

Spalling Bricks: Common Causes and How to Fix Them

Brick masonry is a beautiful thing to behold. That’s why many homeowners choose masonry for their homes. Unfortunately, it can be prone to damage like every other home. For masonry, spalling is a common occurrence.

Spalling is when brick masonry deteriorates to the point where considerably big amounts of brick are falling down from the structure itself. The crack starts out small, but if left unattended, it can grow bigger. Aside from that, the spalling can spread to other locations on a surface, which is why it should be fixed as soon as it happens.

So how can you fix spalling bricks? We have listed everything you need to know below.

What Causes Spalling

Like other forms of home damage, many things contribute to spalling. However, the most common source of damage is water. After all, water erodes rocks, which bricks are made of. In turn, it weakens the masonry, especially if there’s water trapped in the structure itself.

How can water enter masonry? Well, there are several ways. Rainwater hitting the masonry, poor drainage, and wet soil are some of the most common. Moisture is also something that becomes a problem because it can weaken the masonry as well.

Many homeowners turn to non-breathable sealants to prevent water from entering the masonry, but what they don’t know is that it can do more harm than good. If sealants are applied, the water inside can’t escape anymore, which can cause spalling.

Common Areas Where Spalling Can Occur

If your home is made with masonry, there are common areas where spalling often occurs. These include:

  • Underneath window sills
  • On walls, specifically the lower half
  • Around doors and stairs
  • Near or around downspouts and drainage systems
  • On bricks that are covered with soil or dirt

Fixing Spalled Bricks

The best way for you to determine how much damage has been done by the spalling is to tap on the affected areas, then take note where the damage appears to cease. If the spalling extends about three quarters of the structure, then extra measures need to be taken when it comes to repairs.

As long as the problem isn’t beyond repair, any experienced mason can fix it. Usually, repairs are done by replacing bricks and mortar. The repairs have to be done with precision and the proper tools, and the replacement bricks and mortar should also match the rest of the structure. In some cases, though, repairs are done by simply reusing and turning the affected bricks around, provided that other sides are free from damage.

Before letting your mason work on repairs though, make sure to properly identify and remedy the cause of the problem. If you don’t do this, spalling may still happen even if repairs are done.

Spalling Prevention

Once repairs have been done, you should take it upon yourself to prevent the issue from ever happening again. You can install high-quality water systems that prevent water from reaching masonry structures. Using breathable sealants will work as well.

Conclusion

Spalling can be a daunting thought for a homeowner with a brick home, and seeing the damage is even scarier. Luckily, there are many experienced masons who can handle the problem flawlessly. Aside from that, there are also ways that the homeowner can prevent spalling from happening.

Red Robin Masonry prides itself on being the best provider of quality brick repair services in Toronto. If you notice that your home has small damages, don’t delay because it will just grow bigger. Contact us immediately and let us solve the problem before it gets worse!

Many grand houses have been made from bricks, as they have become a go-to material for homeowners because of their apparent benefits. Bricks offer strength and durability, but despite its many advantages, it’s not perfect and can sometimes be subject to damages.

For this reason, lots of brick houses need to be reinforced. Tuck pointing is the process that’s done to strengthen and support brick houses.

The questions remain—what exactly is tuck pointing, and should you have it done for your home? In this article, we’ll shed some light on the matter at hand. Read on below to learn more.

Understanding Tuck Pointing Better 

Tuck pointing is the intricate process of removing and replacing the mortar joints within the brickwork of your home. On a related note, almost any wall has a sort of a tuck pointing job; it just so happens that it’s more often found in brick homes. Ideally, tuck pointing must be redone every 10 to 15 years for it to be effective.

Masonry contractors do tuck pointing jobs. Most of the time, they will need to determine how many repairs are required. There are instances where spot tuck pointing is done, just working on smaller joints in the brickwork. However, most tuck pointing jobs are usually doing all of it.

Why It Has to Be Done

If your house doesn’t have any kind of tuck pointing whatsoever, you’re just doing yourself a disservice. Tuck pointing is essential for the following reasons:

  • It’s what holds your house together.
  • If bad tuck pointing is in place, water intrusion can happen, attracting mould in the walls. Mould can contribute to the structural degradation of your home.
  • Water intrusion can also cause basement flooding.

When Mold Growth Occurs

If the tuck pointing isn’t done well, there will be gaps in between walls. These gaps are what can cause water intrusion, which in turn attracts mould. Mould can also cause your home to smell bad.

When basement flooding happens, it likely goes all the way up to the top of your walls. If you can’t detect it immediately, chances are it will leave some signs, such as stains on the wall or chipping if the walls are painted.

This is often what many masonry contractors miss. The gaps are small, but they’re big enough to cause water intrusion. To test whether or not it can happen, water tests are usually conducted with the help of a hose.

Tuck Pointing Costs

Like most businesses in the realm of construction, masonry contractors offer varying prices when it comes to tuck pointing jobs.

The standard prices are usually somewhere between $500 to $2,000 for 100 square feet, making it $5 to $25 per square foot. However, other factors have to be taken into account, such as the location of your home or how much work is going to be done.

Homes with chimneys are often deemed separate jobs. For tuck pointing chimneys, the price is usually somewhere between $10 to $25 per square foot. Ideally, the price for chimney tuck pointing jobs goes up to $200.

Keep in mind that prices are often subject to change depending on your mortar’s condition. For this reason, it’s best to consult with your contractor to know which works best for you.

Conclusion

Tuck pointing is a necessary measure to prolong the lifespan of your home. Not only does it add to durability, but it also increases the property’s value. As long as you have tuck pointing in your home, you can guarantee that you will be safe within its confines.

Red Robin Masonry Prides is one of the leading providers of masonry services in Toronto. We believe that your home is your most significant investment, which is why we’re here to make things happen for you. If you need masonry services for your home, don’t hesitate to give us a call!

The Better Option: Concrete vs. Stone

Concrete and stone are useful for many things when it comes to paving driveways, making walkways, building patios, and constructing retaining walls. If you are interested in finding out which one of these two popular materials would be the best for your next project, we’re about to finally discuss it and reach a verdict.

Now, let’s assess all the factors into consideration before arriving at a final conclusion. Which is the better option for your construction project: concrete or stone?

 

Understanding Stone

Stone is not manufactured in a factory, but is rather produced from several natural ingredients that are slowly formed in the ground over thousands of years. Pavers made of natural stone have a quality that is difficult to ignore.

There are several explanations behind the premium price that often comes with stone materials.  First, supply is limited. It takes many thousands of years for stone to form in the ground. And second, the stone quarries must be excavated out of the earth. While the initial price is more expensive for stone, it may require less upkeep because of the variety of strengths, such as granite’s low porosity and high durability, which makes it largely resistant to stains.

There are certain factors to consider when utilizing natural stone for a retaining wall, pillars, or other kinds of upright structures. One good example is that between the stones there are usually tiny holes and cracks, meaning drainage may become an issue. Instead of using towering retaining walls, which are more costly, stone uses shorter retaining walls which are less expensive.

Some stones, such as granite, have varied capabilities, which may lead to a more lasting end product if used in place of concrete. Both concrete and stone may require sealants to keep them from deteriorating.

A striking feature of stone is that it seems stunningly different every time and its classic appearance cannot ever go out of style. If you don’t want to use mortar or specific connections, consider stone to form retaining walls. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that stone is unsuitable for heavier traffic or larger walls.

 

Understanding Concrete

Concrete is not made of natural materials and is formed at a manufacturing plant by using various raw materials mixed together. Cement, aggregate, pigments, and dyes are combined to make concrete. Since concrete pavers cost less to make, they are an inexpensive alternative.

While concrete typically costs less to acquire and install compared to stone, it may turn out to be more expensive in the long run. The former is more likely to break and will exhibit cracks in time. Concrete is cheaper to build, but it costs more in terms of routine care, as cracks and other evidence of wear and tear must be filled in. Even so, the material maintains its strength for a very long period if it is well maintained and kept in good shape.

Although concrete is affordable, it also comes in multiple colour and shape options. Concrete, however, cannot appear the same as natural and ancient stones. Concrete is also vulnerable to cracks, and constant repair is required.

 

The Verdict (Conclusion)

Since purchasing and installing concrete is cheaper, it does not imply that you do not have any extra expenditures to bear. Cracks are common in concrete, and this adds to the overall cost of upkeep. Additionally, stone will start at a higher price, but it will offer a distinctive aesthetic that you can not get elsewhere. It is likely to be durable as well, which means your patio will look good for a long time.

Putting these two materials side-by-side, it may be difficult to come up with a final verdict. But ultimately, this is a decision you’ll have to make based on the task at hand, and on your particular tastes. Trying to discuss concrete or stone materials with masonry specialists can help you decide on the finest option.

Are you looking for masonry services in Toronto? Red Robin Masonry has a track record of being the best in the field. We offer you first-class tools, industry expertise, and well-trained professionals. Don’t hesitate to call us and get your FREE estimate today! 

Bricks have been used throughout the years both for their material strength and aesthetics. Many old structures built with bricks are still standing strong to this day, and many of them have been given special attention through repairs and restoration. 

Are you thinking of acquiring a house built with bricks? If so, you need to be prepared if it needs a major restoration or up to what extent it needs repairing.

 

Difference Between Brick Repair and Brick Restoration

Brick repair focuses on a certain number of bricks or a particular section of bricks that needs replacement because of sustained damage. It is important to replace old bricks that may have compromised structural strength. Early signs of wear may be a simple gap or noticeable cracks in one or two bricks.

On the other hand, brick restoration is about restoring the bricks to their brand new and original look. Restoration is more commonly used to preserve buildings, especially the ones built decades or centuries ago. This involves removing and replacing old masonry before refinishing, usually done for the entirety of the structure rather than just certain spots and areas. Included in the process is improving structural integrity to be able to stand the test of time.

These two terms are often interchanged but keep in mind that repairs are for minor and quick fixes while restorations are intensive projects for the building’s overall improvement. To determine which is best for your building, it is highly recommended to hire masonry contractors in Toronto to assess what is needed to ensure the structure will stand strong for another century or more!

 

Types of Brickwork

Determining the type of brickwork you’re dealing with is a good start for assessing the repairs you could possibly need. There are only two categories, the first of which is brickwork in mud. This is the cheapest and most basic type among masonry services, as mud is the medium through which bricks are joined together. The second category is brickwork in cement, which, as the name suggests, uses cement to join bricks together.

Brickwork in cement is further classified into three different types. First-class brickwork uses cement made with lime mortar and bricks with sharp edges and surfaces. These come in deep cherry red or copper, are regularly shaped, and made of completely burnt good earth. Second-class brickwork, meanwhile, uses ground-moulded bricks, giving an irregular shape with a bit of roughness. They are strong, highly durable, and are usually burnt in kilns. The third-class brickwork uses bricks of poor quality, having rough and unfair edges. They are not recommended for areas that experience heavy rain.

It’s best to use first-class cement brickwork for your building and for general use as it is the strongest and most durable among the three. Nevertheless, the other two classes have their own purpose and particular benefits. 

 

Conclusion

Bricks that are significantly damaged might be beyond your prowess and most probably need expert hands. Hiring professionals for your repairs and restoration services in Toronto is your best solution. The cost will depend on the severity of the damage, the type of brickwork to be done, and how much needs to be repaired. But keep in mind that when it comes to masonry, safety and durability must be your top priority!

Red Robin Masonry can help you cater your brick repairs, restoration, and maintenance needs. Our qualified professionals can take on any project, big or small, with exceptional quality of service in mind. Our competitive prices and guaranteed quality will provide you with the best value. Contact us now so we can start the brick repair in Mississauga!

When it comes to changing the aesthetics of your home, the different procedures can be pretty overwhelming, especially when you have to deal with a brick structure. 

Bricks are effective construction materials that provide cladding, allowing your property to have proper insulation and weather-resistant features, all while improving your home’s aesthetics. However, over time, the mortar used to fill joints may deteriorate — this is where tuckpointing comes into the picture. 

Tuckpointing is a great technique that enhances the appearance of masonry. This procedure removes portions of deteriorating mortar and fills it with new mortar that closely matches the colour of the bricks. By doing this, you create an illusion of a well-maintained brick structure. 

Seeing that tuckpointing is a tedious process that requires technique and specific materials, it’s best to get credible brick repair services to ensure your property goes back to its original state and enhances its general aesthetics.

If you’re keen on protecting your bricks from total mortar deterioration, read on. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about tuckpointing — from tips to the actual process. Let’s get to it!

 

The Basics of Tuckpointing

When you’re considering some tuckpointing work done, it helps to understand the different terms of masonry. 

  • Pointing: This is the process of filling mortar joints during construction. It also refers to the actual mortar joints and the spaces between each brick in a completed wall. 
  • Repointing: This involves removing old mortar from the joints and replacing it with new, fresh mortar.
  • Tuckpointing: Similar to repointing, the main difference is that you’re using mortar that closely resembles the colour of your bricks. After which, you embed narrow lines of putty in contrasting colours through the center of new mortar joints. 

Many homeowners go for tuckpointing instead of repointing because it creates an appealing and convincing visual illusion, making your wall look like it was constructed with new masonry. 

 

Why Do Mortar Joint Deteriorate?

Before going through tuckpointing and other reconstruction procedures, it pays to know what goes on when mortars begin to fail. 

Deterioration can happen due to a bunch of reasons, such as faulty workmanship, environmental erosion due to extreme temperature and moisture, or the pressure of overhead bricks. Although bricks can last for centuries, you should know that mortars can last for only 25 to 30 years, which means you’ll need to replace them at some point in your property’s lifetime. 

 

Why Should I Let Professionals Handle This?

While many homeowners love do-it-yourself projects, it’s best to leave it to the professionals when it comes to tuckpointing. 

Tuckpointing is a labour-intensive method that requires a lot of skill and extreme precision to successfully create an illusion of level mortar joints. Seeing that it’s an incredibly meticulous project, seeing a slight off-kilter portion can make the whole project look sloppy and unfinished. 

With that being said, it’s best to get reputable brick repair services from trusted companies to ensure proper installation and resetting, resulting in a fantastic-looking new wall or chimney. 

 

The Bottom Line: Give Your Bricks that Overdue Love and Care It Deserves

Tuckpointing is a fantastic way to breathe in new life to your brick structure. Whether you’re dealing with bricks in the exterior of the interior of your home, you want to ensure that it gets proper upkeep and looks good as news, especially when exposed to various triggers. 

Thankfully, Red Robin Masonry provides exceptional brick repair services. This way, you can give your brick structure that much-needed upgrade and give it the love and care it deserves.

 

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!