Painting over brick has been popular for generations, either to cover old, tired-looking surfaces or to satisfy a particular color preference. If, however, your home’s painted brick – interior or exterior – no longer suits your taste or if an old paint job is getting in the way of needed repair to the brick and […]
When and How Were the Bricks In Your Old House Made?
Brick is likely the most popular building material in use today. Throughout the world, builders use various forms and styles of brick to erect every kind of building imaginable. Brick making is an ancient craft, passed along from ancient cultures and refined over time.
Neighborhood Spirit While Distancing
The coronavirus is now the in-your-face reality across the United States, and people are struggling to make the adjustments necessary to remain safe and curtail the outbreak. Washington DC residents can be encouraged by the recent YouTube videos of Italian singers and ordinary citizens leaning out their windows and off balconies to sing together. The […]
We Are Still Here for You!
The following information was recently sent to Renaissance customers. We want everyone in the DC service area to know that we are open and continuing to provide tuckpointing and exterior masonry service to new and former clients. Here is how we are working, to ensure safety for all…
Summertime Curb Appeal for Historic Brick Houses
There are many ways to increase the curb appeal of historic brick houses in DC and the warm spring and summer months are the best time to act. The home’s landscape, particularly the gardens in front, is an important element in creating a first impression for the rest of the property. Here are some tips […]
What Causes Bulging in Brick Walls?
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
