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Brick, Stone, & Masonry Problems in Virginia

Common Problems with Brick, Stone, & Masonry in Richmond, VA

It is hard to escape the masonry problems that affect older homes in Richmond, VA. At one time or another, you are likely to encounter these issues. Nothing is indestructible, especially when it is constantly exposed to rain, snow, hail, wind, heat, and freezing temperatures. Your brick, stone, and masonry will get old and broken down, just like a roof, or any other part of your home or business. That is why you need to take care of it as you would any other part of your home or business. Some common problems that can affect brick, stone, and masonry are:commong brick stone masonry problems virginia

  • Crumbling – created through water damage, foundation failure, and/or age.
  • Chipping – caused by age, water damage, foundation failure, and a variety of other problems.
  • Flaking – caused by water seeping into bricks through pores, and heat making the brick expand and flake.
  • Cracking – floor, ceiling, wall, stair step, and foundation cracks are all things that you should watch out for.
  • Efflorescence – a white, crusty calcium residue left over when water evaporates and leaves a salt covering behind.

Masonry Problems & Repair Solutions by Reliable Waterproofing & Masonry in Virginiabrick stone masonry problems in richmond virginia

These issues are all common problems that affect brick, stone, and masonry, so if you notice these problems around your Virginia home, make sure to contact us here at Reliable Waterproofing & Masonry as soon as possible. These could be signs of more urgent problems, especially if you are noticing more than one. Luckily, we have a variety of solutions such as brick re-pointing, concrete restoration, masonry repair, foundation repair, and waterproofing.

So, no matter what your problem may be, we can help. Our team of professionals is experienced and knowledgeable in all areas of repair, and many of our repair tools and products are supplied by Earth Contact Products — also known as “the Very Best” in foundation repair and waterproofing products — so you can rest easy knowing you area receiving top quality repairs, products, and service. Contact us today to learn more about our foundation repair, waterproofing, and masonry problems and repair services. Our service area includes Richmond, Virginia and all of Northern Virginia. Give us a call today!

Exterior Masonry Repair in your Northern Virginia Home

What Affects Exterior Masonry in Northern Virginia

Keeping your brick in good shape can be hard, but knowing what affects your masonry can help you keep your brick looking great. Not only will it look great, but it will do its job in keeping your home or business safe. Deteriorating brick can leave your home or business in harm’s way, so knowing the signs and causes of deteriorating brick is smart and getting masonry repair is even smarter. There are a few things that specifically can harm your masonry and make you need masonry repairs, including:Masonry services tool set

  • Climate
  • Environmental causes
  • Terrain and vegetation
  • Cracking
  • Efflorescence
  • Corrosion

These are all things that can harm your brick home or business. Climate can have a major effect on masonry, especially in areas where freeze-thaw cycles are common. Places such as upstate New York will have this problem.

There are many things that are environmental in nature that may harm your brick such as acid rain, vibrations from nearby roads, and salt water from nearby bodies of water. These may cause problems such as flaking, cracking, or erosion.

Terrain and vegetation are also problems that you may encounter. Poor soil drainage, poor surface drainage, tree roots, and ivy are all issues. Keeping water away from your home is important, and keeping an eye on surrounding trees and plants is smart. Ivy may penetrate brick and mortar, so watch for this issue.

Cracking is common in brick, but do not ignore it. Watch for stair-step cracks and other forms of cracking. This could mean that soil or your yard is not draining properly, which can cause foundation failure. Cracking is a good signal to watch out for, and to get inspected immediately.

Efflorescence is a white staining deposit left behind by salt in water. This can be a signal of excess water around the area, which should be addressed as soon as possible by a professional. If you notice this problem on your brick, it should be cleaned off of the surface.

Corrosion is caused by moisture that penetrates your masonry. Any metal within the walls will begin to corrode and rust. This will cause an expansion in the walls, leading to cracking and other problems. If you see signs of rusting, call a professional.

Problems with Masonry in Northern Virginia

Knowing that these problems can cause issues for your brick and masonry, you can begin looking for signs of these problems. There are multiple ways to tell if your brick and masonry are experiencing problems, such as:masonry inspection northern viriginia

Some of these issues point to problems such as foundation failure. Regardless, if you notice these problems, you should contact the professionals at Reliable Waterproofing & Masonry. We have the solutions for all your masonry repair problems. Whether you need masonry repair or brick re-pointing, we have the products, tools, and services you need. Our service area covers all of Northern Virginia. Contact us today to learn more about our foundation repair, waterproofing, masonry, brick re-pointing, or concrete restoration services. You can also contact us for a FREE estimate. Call us today!