Helpful advice. Straight answers.

Does My Mortar Need Repointing?

Look for mortar that is crumbling, missing, deeply recessed, loose, sandy or allowing visible gaps around brick. A few small cracks do not automatically mean an entire wall needs repointing. If the joints are deteriorating significantly, a proper assessment can help determine whether spot repairs or broader repointing makes sense.

Why Is My Parging Cracking?

Parging can crack for several reasons, including age, movement, poor adhesion, moisture and freeze-thaw exposure. Small cosmetic cracking may need a different approach than loose or hollow material. The important part is figuring out whether the parging itself is the problem or simply showing a condition underneath it.

Before You Paint That Brick...

Put the roller down for five minutes. Paint, masonry coatings and mineral staining behave differently. Brick staining can change the colour while preserving more of the masonry’s natural texture, while paint creates a film on the surface and may bring different moisture and maintenance considerations. There are situations where coatings are appropriate; the point is to understand the trade-offs before committing.

Mortar Types 101

Mortar is not one-size-fits-all. Common types include M, S, N and O, with different strengths and properties. The strongest mortar is not automatically the best choice, particularly with older or softer masonry. A compatible mortar should work with the units around it rather than forcing the brick or stone to become the weak link.

Why Are My Bricks Flaking?

Flaking or loss of the brick face is often called spalling. Moisture, freeze-thaw cycling and other conditions can contribute. Replacing damaged bricks may be part of the repair, but understanding why they deteriorated helps avoid simply treating the symptom.

Repair or Rebuild My Chimney?

Localized mortar failure or a few damaged bricks may be repairable. Widespread deterioration, movement or severe damage may make partial or full rebuilding the better long-term choice. The right answer depends on what the chimney is actually doing, not just how it looks from the driveway.

Things Your Mason Wishes You Knew

• Matching 50-year-old brick is not always as simple as visiting the brick store.
• Sealing everything is not automatically waterproofing.
• Cracks do not all mean the same thing.
• Flashing and drainage matter even though nobody gets excited about flashing.
• Fix the moisture source before endlessly repairing the damage it causes.

Ask a Mason

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