Frequently Asked Questions

If you notice bricks that are bulging or leaning or mortar that looks like it’s crumbling, then that tells you something needs fixing soon. Spot damp patches on brick or stone surfaces as well which shows moisture is getting in and can lead to more serious damage if left alone. These signs become more urgent when New York winters hit and freeze any trapped water inside the walls.

Aim for a full check once a year as that gives time to catch early wear before it gets worse. Some teams also look at things every couple of months just to be sure they spot minor cracks or shifting before they turn into bigger issues.

Small fixes like a few cracked bricks or mortar that need repointing usually get done in a few days. For bigger work like rebuilding a wall or restoring a large fade expect things to stretch to a couple of weeks depending on the weather and how complex it is.

Reappointing means you remove worn down mortar from joints and then you replace it with fresh mortar. That keeps water from slipping into gaps between bricks and protects the wall from frost damage as well as erosion

Solid masonry is thick and strong and holds up well under weight. Veneer gives you a brick or stone look over another wall and costs less while also improving energy retention. Veneer does need proper drainage behind it so moisture doesn’t get trapped.

A solid estimate spells out materials used as well as labor costs and any cleanup included. You should know if permits are covered too and get a clear idea of the expected timeline so there are no surprises once the work starts.

Good masons check the color as well as texture and size of what’s there now. They source or dress new units so they blend smoothly, and repairs look seamless not pieced together.

Call in a licensed mason when you see mortar that is crumbling or brick that is shifting or bulging. Licensed pros bring skill as well as compliance and they know how to stabilize and restore without creating more problems.

Brick gives you that classic look while stone adds durability and concrete block gives a strong structure, and a veneer provides a lighter finish with better insulation. Every material brings its own strengths depending on what the project needs.

Keep water off your walls with good drainage and sealants that let the wall breathe but repel moisture. Check for cracks or wear over time and fix small issues quickly before they become big repairs.