Repointing and patch pointing are two different techniques used in masonry to restore the

mortar joints between bricks or stones.

Repointing is the process of removing damaged or deteriorated mortar from all the joints

between the masonry units and replacing it with new mortar. The process involves carefully

chiseling/grinding out the old mortar, cleaning the joint with water or a horse hair brush, and

then filling the joint with fresh mortar. The new mortar should match the composition and

strength of the original mortar, whereas the color and texture of the new mortar can be suited to

preference.

Patch pointing, on the other hand, is a method used to repair smaller areas of damage or

deterioration in the masonry joints. Instead of removing all of the old mortar, only the damaged

or missing portions are removed and replaced with fresh mortar. This technique is generally

used for minor repairs or for areas where the overall condition of the joints are still relatively

sound.

The main difference between repointing and patch pointing is the extent of the repair work.

Repointing involves removing and replacing all of the old mortar, whereas patch pointing is a

more localized repair method that targets only the damaged areas. Repointing is typically used

for larger areas of deterioration, while patch pointing is better suited for smaller areas of

damage or wear.

Masonry refers to construction using materials like bricks, stones, and concrete blocks. Over

time, masonry can deteriorate due to a variety of factors, including age, weathering, structural

movement, and deferred maintenance. Here are some signs that may indicate that your masonry

needs to be repaired:

1. Cracks: Cracks in masonry can be a sign of structural issues or water damage. If the

cracks are wider than 1/8 inch, it's best to have them inspected by a professional.

2. Efflorescence: Efflorescence is the white powdery substance that appears on masonry

surfaces due to water absorption. It can be a sign of moisture infiltration and can cause

masonry to deteriorate over time.

3. Leaks: Water leaks can damage masonry over time. Look for signs of water infiltration,

such as stains on walls or ceilings, mold growth, or a musty odor.

4. Loose or missing mortar: Mortar holds masonry materials together, and if it's missing or

loose, it can compromise the integrity of the structure.

5. Bulging or leaning walls: If a masonry wall is bulging or leaning, it may be a sign of

structural damage that needs to be addressed.

6. Crumbling or missing bricks or stones: If individual bricks or stones are crumbling or

missing, it can weaken the overall structure and cause rapid deterioration to the

surrounding areas.

If you notice any of these signs, it's best to have a professional masonry contractor inspect your

masonry to determine the extent of the damage and the best course of action to repair it.

Whether a masonry retaining wall needs to be repaired or replaced depends on the extent and

severity of the damage. If the damage is minor, such as a few cracks or chips in the masonry, it

may be possible to repair the wall without replacing it entirely. However, if the damage is

extensive, such as large cracks or significant structural damage, it may be necessary to replace

the wall to ensure safety and stability.

Some signs that your masonry retaining wall may need to be repaired or replaced include bulging

or leaning, large cracks or gaps in the masonry, or erosion or settling of the soil behind the wall.

Additionally, if you notice any signs of water damage, such as staining or discoloration, this may indicate a problem with the wall's drainage system that needs to be addressed.

If you suspect that your masonry retaining wall needs to be repaired or replaced, a Disciple

Masonry Estimator can assess the extent of the damage and provide recommendations for the

best course of action. We may be able to repair the wall by repointing or replacing damaged

materials, or we may recommend that the wall be replaced entirely for structural and safety

reasons.

In summary, whether a masonry retaining wall needs to be repaired or replaced depends on the

severity of the damage. It's important to work with a professional masonry contractor to assess

the damage and determine the best course of action for repairing or replacing the wall.

Fixing cracked bricks is a common repair in masonry work, and the process for repairing them

can vary depending on the severity of the crack. Here's a general process for fixing cracked

bricks:

1. Identify the cause of the crack: Before repairing the crack, it's important to identify the

root cause of the issue, whether it's due to age, weathering, or structural movement.

2. Clean the area: Clean the area around the crack to remove any debris or loose mortar.

3. Prepare the mortar: Mix a batch of mortar that matches the existing mortar in color and

texture.

4. Apply the mortar: Apply a layer of mortar to the crack, filling it completely.

5. Tool the mortar: Use a trowel or jointing tool to smooth out the mortar and blend it with

the surrounding bricks.

6. Let the mortar dry: Allow the mortar to dry for 24-48 hours.

7. Finish the repair: If necessary, apply a coat of sealant to protect the repair from water and

weathering.

It's important to note that if the crack is severe, it may require more extensive repairs,

such as removing and replacing the damaged brick. It's best to consult a professional

masonry contractor to determine the best course of action for your specific repair needs.

The staining or whitening of masonry surfaces is often caused by a natural process known as

efflorescence. Efflorescence is the result of water penetrating the masonry and dissolving salts

and other minerals, which are then brought to the surface. As the water evaporates, the minerals

are left behind, causing the white or grayish stain on the surface.

Efflorescence is common in masonry, and can occur on a variety of surfaces, including brick,

stone, and concrete. It's more likely to occur in areas with high levels of humidity, moisture, or

rain. In addition, it can also occur when the masonry is exposed to a new source of water, such as after a heavy rain or during the installation of new landscaping or irrigation systems.

Efflorescence is generally a cosmetic issue and does not typically affect the structural integrity of

the masonry. However, it can be an indication of water infiltration, which can lead to more

serious issues over time. Therefore, it's important to address the cause of the efflorescence and

prevent further water infiltration.

To remove efflorescence, the affected area can be cleaned using a commercial efflorescence

cleaner. However, it's important to take steps to prevent the efflorescence from returning, such as

addressing any sources of water infiltration and ensuring proper drainage around the masonry. A

professional masonry contractor can help determine the underlying cause of efflorescence and recommend the best course of action to address the issue.

Mortar is a crucial component in masonry construction, as it helps hold bricks, stones, and other masonry units together. If mortar is crumbling, it's a sign of deterioration, which can lead to structural issues if left unchecked. Here are some common reasons why mortar can crumble:

1. Age and weathering: Over time, exposure to the elements can cause mortar to weaken

and deteriorate. This is a natural process, and it can be exacerbated by harsh weather

conditions or poor maintenance.

2. Moisture: Moisture can cause mortar to deteriorate, especially if the masonry is located in

an area with high levels of humidity or frequent rain. Moisture can cause the mortar to

soften and become more susceptible to crumbling.

3. Poor workmanship: If the mortar was not mixed properly or was not applied correctly, it

can lead to weak and crumbling mortar.

4. Chemical damage: Over exposure to certain chemicals, such as acids, can damage mortar

and cause it to crumble.

5. Structural movement: If the masonry structure experiences movement, such as settling or

shifting, it can cause the mortar to crack and crumble.

If you notice that your mortar is crumbling, it's important to address the issue as soon as possible

to prevent further deterioration and potential structural issues. Depending on the cause of the

problem, the solution may involve repointing, which involves removing the damaged mortar and

replacing it with new mortar. Our trained personnel can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action for repairing the crumbling mortar.

Masonry sealer is a type of protective coating that is applied to masonry surfaces, such as brick,

stone, concrete, or stucco. It is designed to prevent water, moisture, and other contaminants from

penetrating the surface of the masonry, which can cause damage and deterioration over time.

This is particularly important in areas with high levels of precipitation or frequent freeze-thaw

cycles, which can cause significant damage to unprotected masonry.

There are several types of masonry sealer available, including penetrating sealers, film-forming sealers, and breathable sealers. Penetrating sealers are designed to penetrate the surface of the masonry and create a barrier that prevents water and moisture from entering. Film-forming sealers, on the other hand, create a protective layer on top of the surface of the masonry, which can help enhance the appearance of the surface, as well as provide protection from moisture and other contaminants. Breathable sealers allow the masonry to breathe, while still providing protection from water and moisture.

Masonry sealer is typically applied to both new and existing masonry surfaces, as a preventative

measure or as a way to address existing issues. They can enhance the appearance of the masonry

by adding a sheen or gloss to the surface, or by enhancing the natural color and texture of the

masonry, which is particularly beneficial for historic or decorative masonry, where maintaining

the appearance and character of the surface is important. Most importantly, it can help extend the life of the masonry and reduce the need for costly repairs and maintenance over time. Applying a masonry sealer requires proper preparation and application, which can be done by our professionally trained masons to ensure that the sealer is applied correctly and effectively.

The frequency at which you need to get your masonry resealed depends on a few factors, such as the type of sealer used, the weather conditions in our area since your last sealer application, and

the level of wear on your masonry.

As a general guideline, it is recommended that masonry be resealed every 3-5 years. However,

this timeline can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

It's important to regularly inspect your masonry to check for signs that it needs to be resealed.

Some signs to look out for include discoloration, staining, or water damage. If you notice any of

these signs, it may be time to have your masonry resealed.

Disciple Masonry can help you determine the best timeline for resealing your masonry based on

the material type of your masonry and the level of wear and tear. Our team can help ensure that

the sealer is applied correctly and effectively to help protect your masonry and extend its

lifespan.

Many old homes in Pennsylvania have stone foundations that have stood the test of time, but

may require some maintenance to ensure their continued stability. The first step in repairing a

stone foundation is to assess the damage and determine the cause. Common issues with stone

foundations include crumbling mortar, cracked stones, and bulging walls. Once the cause of the

damage has been identified, the repair process can begin.

The first step in repairing a stone foundation is to remove any loose or damaged stones and

mortar. This can be done using a hammer and chisel or a diamond blade saw. Once the damaged

areas have been removed, the foundation can be rebuilt using new stones and mortar. It is

important to use a mortar that is compatible with the original mortar, as using the wrong type of

mortar can lead to further damage. The new stones should be carefully selected to match the

existing stones in size, shape, and color.

Another important aspect of repairing a stone foundation is to ensure proper drainage. In

Pennsylvania, where the weather can be wet and humid, water can easily penetrate a stone

foundation and cause damage. A proper drainage system should be installed to divert water away

from the foundation. This can include installing gutters and downspouts, grading the soil away

from the foundation, and installing a French drain system.

Overall, repairing an old stone foundation in Pennsylvania requires a lot of patience and attention

to detail. However, with proper care and maintenance, a stone foundation properly restored can

last another lifetime.

It is difficult to determine whether your stucco needs to be repaired or replaced without a

professional evaluation. However, there are several signs that may indicate a problem with your stucco, such as cracks, water damage, mold, mildew, or improper installation. If you notice any

of these issues, it's important to have a professional stucco contractor evaluate the condition of your stucco. They can provide expert advice on the best course of action based on the specific situation. In general, minor cracks or damage may be repairable, while more extensive damage or stucco that is more than 20-30 years old may require replacement. A professional masonry contractor can help determine the best course of action for your stucco needs.

The price for a repair will depend on the extent of the damage and the size of the area that needs

to be repaired. Here are some factors that can affect the price of the project:

Extent of the damage: If the damage is minor, such as a few small cracks or chips, the price to

repair may be lower than if there are larger cracks or damage that affects the structural integrity

of the building.

Size of the area: The price will also depend on the size of the area that needs to be repaired.

Accessibility: If the area that needs to be repaired is difficult to access, such as on a high wall or

in a hard-to-reach area, the price may be higher.

Type of material: Some material may be more labor intensive to work with or outright more

costly than others.

Labor costs: The cost of labor can also affect the overall cost of the project. Labor costs can vary

depending on the contractor you choose and their level of experience, craftsmanship, and service.

It's important to get a professional estimate before beginning any repairs. Our trained personnel

can evaluate the extent of the damage and provide an accurate estimate of the cost to repair.

It is generally recommended to get your masonry work done before replacing your roof. This is

because the process of replacing a roof can be messy and can result in debris and other materials

falling onto the masonry work, which can damage it or cause it to need to be cleaned again.

Additionally, if there is any damage to the masonry that needs to be repaired, it's easier to access the damaged areas without a new roof in place.

By doing the masonry work first, you can also ensure that the masonry is in good condition and

properly sealed, which can help prevent any potential leaks or other issues that may arise during the roof replacement process.

It's important to coordinate with your contractor to ensure that the timing of the work is planned

out in a way that makes sense for your specific situation. If your roof is in urgent need of

replacement, for example, you may need to get the roof replaced first and then have the masonry

work done afterwards. Ultimately, it's important to work with experienced contractors and communicate your concerns and priorities to them to ensure that the work is completed in the

best possible way.

Can masonry work be done during the winter?

Simply put, yes. When masonry work is performed in cold weather, it's important to take certain

measures to ensure the work is successful and the finished product is strong and durable. Here

are some of the best measures to take:

1. Protect the materials: Store all masonry materials, such as bricks, mortar, and concrete, in

a warm, dry location before use. This will prevent the materials from freezing and becoming unusable.

2. Heat the water: Cold water can cause mortar to freeze, which can lead to cracking and other issues. Heat the water to a temperature of at least 40°F before using it in the mortar mix.

3. Use accelerators: Masonry accelerators, such as calcium chloride, can help speed up the

curing process in cold weather. They can be added to the mortar mix to help it set more quickly and to prevent it from freezing.

4. Cover the work area: If possible, cover the work area with a tarp or other material to

protect it from wind and snow. This will help keep the work area at the correct temperature and prevent moisture from getting in.

5. Use heaters: Portable heaters can be used to keep the work area warm and prevent

materials from freezing.

6. Monitor the temperature: Keep a close eye on the temperature and moisture levels during

the entire masonry work process. This will help ensure the materials are at the correct

temperature and moisture level for proper bonding and curing.

By taking the necessary measures, masonry work can be successfully completed in cold weather

conditions, resulting in a strong and durable finished product.

Pressure washing can potentially hurt brick if it is not done properly or with the right equipment.

While brick is a durable material, it can be damaged by the high-pressure water stream from a pressure washer if the pressure is too high or if the nozzle is too close to the surface of the brick.

When it comes to historical masonry restoration, cleaning by hand with soft brushes is the best

approach.

If the pressure is too high or if the nozzle is too close to the brick, it can cause the surface of the

brick to become pitted, etched or otherwise damaged. This can lead to a weakened brick

structure and potentially lead to further damage over time.

However, if done correctly, pressure washing can be an effective way to clean certain bricks

without causing damage. It's important to use the right pressure setting and nozzle, as well as to

avoid aiming the pressure washer directly at the mortar between the bricks, as this can cause the

mortar to become loose or damaged.

It's difficult to determine whether your masonry is causing a leak without proper inspection.

There are many factors that can cause or contribute to a leak, such as a damaged roof or faulty gutters. However, it is possible that your masonry could be the cause or a contributor to the issue.

In Pennsylvania, where the weather can be wet and humid, water can oversaturate masonry if it

is not properly maintained or sealed. Over time, this can lead to leaks and water damage in your

home. Here are some several common causes of leaking masonry:

Cracks in the Masonry: Over time, masonry structures can develop cracks due to shifting ground and seasonal freeze/thaw cycles. If these joints are not properly filled with mortar, water may get and cause leaks.

Poorly Sealed Joints: Overtime mortar joints between the bricks or stones lose some of their

water wicking abilities. Older mortar tends to absorb more water than new mortar, leaving it

vulnerable to water infiltration. Repointing and applying masonry sealers helps to mitigate the

amount of water being absorbed into older masonry structures.

Damaged Flashing: Flashing is a material used to seal the gap between your masonry structure

and other parts of your home, such as chimneys. If the flashing is damaged or improperly

installed, water can seep in and cause leaks.

Clogged Gutters: If your gutters are clogged with leaves or debris, water can overflow and run

down the exterior walls of your home. Over time, this can cause damage to your masonry

structure and lead to leaks.

Poor Drainage: If the ground around your masonry structure is not properly graded or does not

have adequate drainage, water can collect around the foundation and seep into your home.

In any case, if you notice a leak in your home, it's important to address it as soon as possible.

Water damage can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and other issues that can be

expensive to repair. By addressing the issue promptly and thoroughly, you can protect your home and avoid costly repairs down the road

Cleaning brickwork requires careful consideration of the type of brick, the age and condition of the brick, and the type of stain or discoloration that needs to be removed. The best method for cleaning brickwork will depend on these factors, as well as any historical restoration guidelines that may apply.

When cleaning brickwork, it is important to start by removing any loose dirt or debris using a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Next, choose a cleaning solution that is appropriate for the type of brick and the type of stain you are trying to remove. Avoid using harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners when appropriate. In some cases, water alone may be the best cleaning solution, especially for historical brick structures.

Once you have selected a cleaning solution, apply it to the brickwork using a sprayer or a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and applying the solution, and test a small area of the brick.