Masonry is defined as stone, brick, concrete, or tile to form structures during construction. Masonry construction is quite a popular construction technique due to its numerous advantages, such as being non-combustible, more resistance against weather and pests, and durability.
What does a Masonry Contractor Do?
In the construction industry, the tasks are mostly managed by general contractors who may oversee the entire process and delegate tasks to sub-contractors. A mason deals with a variety of functions such as
● Handling brick, stone, or concrete construction
● Pouring cement on basement floors and driveways
● Erect stone walls
● Build chimneys
A mason is an expert person who can handle numerous tasks, from constructing and repairing to building brick walls, patios, fireplaces, and chimneys. Concrete is the most durable and efficient construction material, which is why many contractors use it while enhancing the outdoor living space and floors.
The Common Damage to Concrete Surfaces
However, concrete surfaces can develop issues after a few years. Some of the problems with concrete that may require you to employ masonry repair are
- Structural damage
The most common physical or structural damage can happen to concrete during the casting process. The concrete floors and walls are susceptible to seismic shocks that do happen a few times around the year. The ground floors also expand and contract due to extreme weather changes.
- Chemical damage
The chemical process of carbonation can impact the concrete floor. Some of the other chemicals that can degrade and damage concrete are calcium chloride, seawater, and sulfate. If you live close to the sea, seawater and wind can corrode the concrete walls and floors.
- Corrosion and other damage
The water damage and strong winds can cause corrosion if left unchecked for a long time. A concrete slab repair service may be needed. Some of the other damage include excessive loads and fire damage.
The Reasons to Employ Expert Masonry Contractors
Masonry repair contractors work with probably the strongest building materials in constructing residential houses and commercial buddings. The reasons why brick and mortar considered an important element of construction are
⮚ Energy efficiency
The brick and stone buildings ensure less heat and cold loss, allowing the low cost of climate control.
⮚ Water-resistant
Many homeowners think that the home siding will be waterproof, but the shingles usually get old, and gaps are evident and allow penetration. Aluminum is one metal that is durable and less likely to crack with time, but it can get damaged with extreme weather. The brick and stone construction, on the other hand, is dense and does not allow penetration of moisture.
⮚ Maintenance
Of all the construction types, masonry is supposed to be quite easy and cost-effective to maintain. It will take a decade or so before the cement or mortar may need some repair or replacement. The cement driveways are a better option than tar driveways that are costly due to coating and sealing.
⮚ Lower insurance rate
One of the vital factors that go into determining the mortgage and premium is brick or stone in construction that can resist any storm or fire damage.
⮚ Fireproof
There are various construction materials, but only a few materials, such as brick and stone, do not burn. The use of stone and brick is preferred, and timber can easily catch fire and get damaged easily.
⮚ Resale value
The use of brick, stone, tile, and cement, although it raises the cost of construction instead of timber, also increases the value of the house significantly. Masonry contractors are experts in adding ‘brick veneer’ and improve the curb appeal of the home.
How a Masonry Contractor works
Employing a repair masonry contractor means the use of premium quality and durable materials of construction. But masonry work is labor-intensive and can be costly rather than timber construction. A professional masonry contractor not only works with stone, brick, and concrete but can also custom design various stunning masonry work by incorporating new design and materials.
If you require masonry repair, you can do an online search and contact a contractor based on the reviews and testimonials. You may often need a brick that is no longer available, but an experienced contractor can help you by contacting his vendors and suppliers.
The masonry repair contractor knows how to search through various brickyards and find the brick that best matches your requirement. In many instances, the masonry contractor can even do the painting and dying of the bricks. It is best to ask for insurance from the masonry contractor if, unfortunately, an accident happens and you are stuck with the bill.
It is always best for a masonry contractor to have everything in written agreement instead of any verbal commitment. The written contract should include
⮚ The various tasks depending on how extensive the repair tasks are
⮚ The start and finish date of the repair project
⮚ The budget and payment schedules
⮚ How many subcontractors or workers will be involved in the team
⮚ If the contractor or the team will clear the remains and mess after the repair work is done
You need to specify the masonry contractor if you want to repair a part of the floor or driveway or want a completely new installation. You can also ask the timespan and budget for the proposed repair or renovation process. You may ask about the durability of the work so that you do not end up calling for another masonry contractor after a year. The advantages of hiring professional masonry contractor are
✔ Expertise
✔ Efficiency
✔ Improving the value of the house
Conclusion
Masonry repair and renovation projects can be expensive, so you need to spend time and consider certain aspects before you employ a contractor. The several problems or professional tasks you need to call a masonry contractor are uneven floors when doors, cabinets, or windows do not close correctly and visible holes and cracks in the brick.
It can be quite costly if you delay the repair process as water and other elements can easily get into the small holes and further weaken the structure. The cost of employing a masonry contractor depends on the extent of repair work, labor, and repair materials.
Author Bio
Josephine Ellis has 5 years of experience in masonry work and now works as a freelance contractor. She also frequently writes online and explains the various masonry issues and how people need to employ professional repair contractors.
