remodeling an Indoor Fireplace without replacing masonry
"A masonry fireplace is an important feature of a home that can significantly increase its value, by providing beautiful natural stone or brick surfaces that contrast well with the drywall, plaster, wood paneling or other, more common, indoor wall surfaces. However, same factors that give masonry its rugged, natural beauty make it difficult to change when remodeling is desired."
Long Term Thinking — A Key To Brick Matching Success
"The demands of the day can sometimes outweigh the best long-term strategy for taking care of a structure built with brick. Many property owners and project managers can make quick decisions that have long term, and potentially detrimental consequences when working to repair, remodel, or make an addition to an existing structure."
masonry staining: a great option for masons and contractors
"Staining is a great option that can improve customer satisfaction by resolving problems or eliminating them before they arise. It also will beautify your work by removing potential eyesores, and provide opportunities for additional revenue."
Fire Testing: Brick, A Traditionally Non-Combustible Material
"Most people readily recognize that brick masonry does not burn. However, what they may not realize is that walls which include brick masonry veneer, and even thin brick masonry veneer, can provide enough protection for any combustible layers behind them..."
Causes of Efflorescence & Efflorescence Test Method Summary
"Efflorescence is a topic we have often explored in MASONRY Magazine over the years, allowing many of us to become quite knowledgeable on the subject. Are you aware, however, that there are tests that can help pinpoint the source of efflorescence in masonry?"
CASE STUDY: the impact of staining on masonry
"World-famous for its Golden Dome, the 137-year-old Administration Building at the University of Notre Dame serves as HQ for its president and provost. The 1879 building is a must-see destination and a popular place for picture taking. Its exterior brick demonstrates the ingenuity of builders in the late 1800s. Since the clay was excavated from the two lakes on campus, the finished yellow bricks are known as “Notre Dame bricks.”
KEEPING MASONRY STRONG: A BRICK MATCHING CASE STUDY
"Finding a well-matched brick for a repair, window fill-in, or addition can be challenging. Available brick colors change over time, and sometimes the brick you are searching for has been discontinued. You want a brick that, ideally, is as close to the size, texture, and color of the original brick that you can find. What do you do, however, when it is still not enough?"
Brick Preservation and Restoration: Stain’s Valuable and Long-Lasting Role
"Going forward, the potential damage to brick buildings through the use of improper staining products, especially to our beautiful historic buildings, would be heartbreaking. Staining, applied correctly with the right product, can be successful and greatly rewarding to all involved."