Saturday, 5 July 2014

Need to Get Tuck Pointing Done? Watch out for these Masonry Repair Mistakes!



Thorough tuckpointing ensures lasting integrity of the bricks and durability of the overall building structure, provided that you don’t make common masonry repair mistakes. Here’s what masonry contractors in Park Ridge have to say about common mistakes you and I may be missing out.


Has masonry at home in Oak Park begun to downgrade? Do you think it’s time for a thorough tuckpointing project?

Well, although you’ve planned it right, you need to make sure you don’t make the same mistake homeowners often repeat while repairing masonry.
Masonry contractors advise you to watch out for these 4 common masonry repair mistakes:
 
Trying Shortcuts  

When homeowners notice crumbling mortar, they generally purchase ordinary mortar fillers for quick repair. While these quick-fixes claim to provide permanent solution, in reality that create new problems for you. The right way is to remove the filter and get the crumbled mortar replaced with new mortar.




Mismatching the Mortar 

Shortcut methods can never match the existing mortar as most of them are off in color. Although they can fill up the gap, it will be almost impossible to match the original texture. 


Removing Existing Mortar Improperly 

When you don’t remove all the layers of existing mortar, it becomes difficult for the new mortar to stick well to the walls. This leads to premature crumbling and requires frequent repairs.




Avoiding the Real Problem 

Homeowners often compromise on the right way of tuckpointing in exchange for good looks. This gives rise to new more complicated masonry problems.
Your focus should be on what actually caused the mortar to decay prematurely and how you can prevent it. Tuckpointing will be the only way out only when you are sure the foundation has no flaws!
 

 
 

Exterior Painting: Color Selection Tips for Homeowners




A smart color combination can dramatically enhance your home’s appearance, but choosing the right colors is a tough job. Read on for some useful tips! 


Changing exterior paint colors can be highly effective in enhancing the overall curb appeal of your home. And if you own a residential property in Chicago, such a smart transformation can substantially increase its market value!
Here, the most important thing is selection of the right exterior paint colors. If you’re confused because of a huge variety of color options to choose from, consider consulting a professional company specializing in exterior painting in Chicago.
But if you want to carry out a DIY painting project, here are some color selection tips that’ll help you:


Keep in Mind Your Home’s Surroundings

Painting contractors in Oak Park advise not to select the same colors as those of the surrounding buildings. You will also have to make sure your chosen colors don’t clash with the structural details of the house. Take time to study your home exteriors and find out where you can change the colors and where not. It will be equally important to keep in mind the natural surroundings of your home. 



How You Want Your House to Look

For example, you can choose a dark shade if you have a large house. Dark colors lend more solidarity to large structures. But if you live in a small space with a low roof, always choose light shades. This will allow the room to reflect more light and appear bigger and more spacious.



Don’t Hesitate to Experiment
Homeowners have already begun to apply tinted shades that best complement both their building materials and landscape. You can go for mid-tone neutrals that are already in trend. You also have the option of painting your house white, making it appear bigger and more inviting!