Tips on Maintaining Long Lasting Masonry

For a long lasting masonry, there are certain details you should always be aware of. Bricks, once completely damaged are difficult to heal, so it’s better you do your bit at the earliest. Check out what masonry contractors in Chicago have to say about this.

 Bricks are known for their stability and resilience. They are the most trustworthy raw material for making any structure long lasting. But to look after it and see that it lasts even longer you should keep these steps in mind.

1. In Brick Masonry Always Try to Avoid Moldy Bricks

You should always avoid moldy bricks, they tend to decay faster. However the bricks that get very little sunlight tend to get mossy and to get rid of it, you can scrub the area with a little bleach mixed in water using a brush.

2. Brick Water Damage in Brick Masonry

If bricks become damaged by water and a salt mark is visible, then you have to quickly get rid of it by applying tri-sodium phosphate diluted with more warm water using a soft-bristled brush. An acid-based cleaner can also be used on bricks.

3. Use Tuck-Pointing to Quickly Fix Crumbling or Damaged Bricks

Tuck-Pointing is essential once you find cracks and holes in the bricks. It is a technique where the damaged or crumbled portion of the brick is removed and replaced with fresh mortar. But, you have to be careful while choosing the new mortar, because it needs to match with the rest of it.

4. Abrasive Brick Masonry Cleaning Methods can be Harmful for Bricks

Regular cleaning is the best way to maintain them but, some cleaners are very harsh. Therefore, you need to be very careful and avoid over-doing anything on them. Or else, your bricks will lose their natural look.

 

 

Exterior Paint Colors – Frequently Asked Questions

Certain questions always trouble us before choosing the right exterior paint colors. Locality, weather, cost-effective colors, and covering up unattractive details – all should be taken into consideration before undertaking exterior painting in Chicago.

Exterior paint colors may seem a lot easier than the interiors, but doubts arise when one gets into the nitty-gritty of it. Here are certain frequently asked questions regarding exterior paint.

1. What are the most common mistakes homeowners make while choosing exterior paint colors?

This is the most frequently asked because everyone wants their homes to look unique from outside. Covering up unattractive details to blending as well as standing out subtly in the neighborhood, these departments should be taken care of properly.

2. What are the opportunities that homeowners usually miss when they select and place colors on the exteriors of their homes?

Instead of any kind of structural detailing, if you go for designs using color, it reduces costs and makes your home look unconventional and attractive. Also see to it that your windows are outlined properly.

3. To achieve confidence with colors and get rid of surprises what steps should homeowners take?

The best way is to check out color samples at diverse angles and at different times of the day. Also think about the colors that don’t change. However, you should always keep into account the weather conditions.

4. Regarding color placement on a home, are there any rules and regulations of thumb?

Opt for light colors if you want your home to look spacious and dark colors if you want it to look smaller but significant. For windowsills it’s advisable to go for light tones.

5. What makes white and light colors so acceptable?

White and light colors are traditional exterior paints. However, in recent times many people are experimenting with various tinted shades which give the exterior an exclusive feel.