As winter turns to spring and warmer temperatures draw us outdoors, you may spot a bulge in your exterior brick walls. This is masonry issue that are not uncommon among old brick buildings in historic neighborhoods such as those in Washington, DC and Old Town, Alexandria. Bulges indicate a problem with moisture that should be […]
Water and Your Brick Chimney
Your chimney is more than just a silent black hole of mystery. A chimney performs a number of vital functions for the safety and comfort of your home. A simple outward appearance doesn’t tell the whole story of how a chimney is built and what it takes to ensure its safe and efficient performance.
Removing Stucco to Expose Original Brick
Many people purchase or inherit older homes that have layers of stucco covering an older brick and mortar exterior. For those who desire to remove the stucco to reveal the brick and mortar underneath, be forewarned that this is a huge undertaking that requires lots of time and effort.
What to Ask When You Interview an Architect
Many homeowners feel challenged by a major renovation project. If you are planning an upgrade of an old house, hiring the right architect is at the top of your list. Your friends can point you in the right direction but beware of putting too much stock in word of mouth recommendations. The architect for your […]
What to Ask When You Interview an Architect
Many homeowners feel challenged by a major renovation project. If you are planning an upgrade of an old house, hiring the right architect is at the top of your list. Your friends can point you in the right direction but beware of putting too much stock in word of mouth recommendations. The architect for your […]
How to Tell if Your Brick Façade Needs Tuckpointing
Brick and mortar structures are considered to be among the most weatherproof and long-lasting buildings. And yet, older brick and mortar homes and businesses will need periodic repairs. Weather will erode these dated bricks and soft mortar, allowing moisture intrusion that will create even more damage over time.
How to Tell if Your Brick Façade Needs Tuckpointing
Brick and mortar structures are considered to be among the most weatherproof and long-lasting buildings. And yet, older brick and mortar homes and businesses will need periodic repairs. Weather will erode these dated bricks and soft mortar, allowing moisture intrusion that will create even more damage over time.
Those Picturesque Icicles on Your Roof Mean Trouble
Many love the appearance of icicles hanging along the eaves of an old house, but those icy formations mean something ominous is also forming on your roof – ice dams. Freezing weather and plenty of snow lead to ice dams that can damage gutters and shingles and cause water intrusion. And there is nothing more […]
Why Is Traditional Tuckpointing Right for Old Brick?
Centuries-old architecture is a vanishing treasure across the United States. And while the battle to preserve beautiful and still-useful old buildings continues, many are unaware of just what is required to preserve these treasures for future generations. Without using the proper techniques, severe damage to old buildings can speed their deterioration.
Tips for Ice and Snow Removal from DC Brick Steps and Walkways
The harsh weather of winter adds ice and snow to DC brick walkways and steps. Using salt or other chemical de-icing products to remove ice and snow from brick walkways can damage and stain the bricks, degrade the mortar joints and harm any nearby vegetation. Homeowners are challenged by the need to maintain safe walkways […]
