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Difference Between Repointing and Tuckpointing

The dichotomy that lies at the heart of all building restoration projects has been described, in no uncertain terms, as a philosophical conundrum. “If you want to respect an old [building],” goes the quotation, “it’s important to keep the philosophy of the builder in mind. You can honor it by restoring its original state or

By |2023-10-25T20:22:54+00:00May 13th, 2021|Construction|

How to Remove Graffiti from Masonry

Renowned architect Frank Gehry, futurist designer of such landmark buildings as the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Guggenheim Museum, and the Louis Vuitton Foundation building, once said that “in the end, the character of a civilization is encased in its structures.” While Gehry has always been enamored with the idea of pushing the boundaries of modern

By |2021-05-06T16:01:15+00:00May 6th, 2021|Uncategorized|

Playing with Blocks: Using Bricks in Construction

Since mankind’s earliest days, we have been a species of builders. Ancient peoples buried their dead by digging holes in the earth and covering the bodies with sand or gravel. Over time, in order to protect the dead from animals, narrow pits of stone were made that could be covered with a large rock﹘the first

By |2021-04-13T18:59:56+00:00April 13th, 2021|Construction|

Restoring Historic Masonry After an Earthquake

What to Do and What Not to Do Since the 5.7 magnitude earthquake near Salt Lake City, Utah on the morning of March 18, 2020, our phones have been ringing off the hook from good folks owning historic brick, stone or adobe houses, and commercial buildings. They are seeking advice on how best to act

By |2020-04-01T19:32:19+00:00March 25th, 2020|Architecture, Buildings, News|

Salt Lake Earthquake

Following the March 18, 2020 earthquake that shook Salt Lake City and surrounding areas, Abstract sincerely wishes the best for the health and safety of you and your loved ones. In cooperation with structural engineers and other professionals, we have aggressively advocated how best to prepare and stabilize residential and commercial masonry to withstand a

By |2020-03-19T15:50:30+00:00March 18th, 2020|Uncategorized|

COVID-19 Policy

To our Valued Customers, Partners and Friends: I appreciate the confidence you demonstrate in us every time you choose to work with Abstract. Current conditions throughout our state, country, and the world at large have left us all feeling a bit uncertain with the rapidly-evolving situation surrounding the COVID-19 virus. The health and safety of

By |2020-03-19T15:55:23+00:00March 18th, 2020|Uncategorized|

Is Your Mortar in Need of Repointing?

If you’ve noticed some spots of mortar on your brick home that are crumbling or simply in need of repair, it might be time to give the brick exterior of your home a little TLC. Brick is an excellent material. Not only does it provide a classic look that never feels outdated, but it adds

By |2020-02-26T22:43:06+00:00February 26th, 2020|Uncategorized|

Historical Structure Trivia: Post-War vs. Pre-War Architecture

In the years leading up to World War II, American homes emphasized special touches to add charm and grace. After the war, the focus shifted to functionality and mass production. Architecture Styles Before and After World War II World War II is an event that forever changed the course of America. With long-standing effects in

By |2020-02-26T22:36:19+00:00February 26th, 2020|Uncategorized|

The Essential Types of Masonry Sealants

The Essential Types of Masonry Sealants Masonry sealants are a modern way to protect historical structures from water damage and corrosion due to moisture and other elements. However, these sealants are only part of the puzzle. Using the wrong sealant on masonry, or applying it incorrectly, can often lead to worse problems in the

By |2019-08-21T19:03:04+00:00December 7th, 2015|Buildings, Construction, News|

The Difference Between Repointing and Tuckpointing

The Difference Between Repointing and Tuckpointing Pointing is the process where you fill in the mortar joints between your masonry in the construction process. It is necessary to get all of your different masonry components to adhere and form into a single wall or structure. Obviously, this is a critical process for the construction

By |2021-05-06T16:22:33+00:00December 7th, 2015|Architecture, Construction, Engineering|
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