Masonry repair and restoration is a tricky business, best left to the professionals. Unless you’re an experienced mason yourself, chances are good that you’ll end up doing more harm than good if you try to tackle a repair project on your own. Here’s what you need to know about historic masonry repair.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional Mason

Many DIY enthusiasts and skilled craftsmen believe if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing well. And, sometimes we feel like we’re the best person for the job. However, historic brick and stone work often needs to be addressed by a professional. While you may be proficient in building a home with new materials, tackling a project that requires careful preservation of existing materials requires a different approach.

Abstract Masonry, based in Salt Lake City, understands the nuances of repairing and restoring a variety of masonry projects. We know that a job worth doing is worth doing well, and have the necessary experience to strip paint, repair cracks, and repoint. Along the Wasatch Front, many historic structures can benefit from proper maintenance and restoration, which we’re happy to help with.

Different Types of Masonry Repair Methods 

With thousands of years of history behind it, masonry repair and restoration is a craft that should be handled with the utmost care. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and no two jobs are alike when it comes to masonry repair. 

Depending on the type of stonework, the necessary repairs will differ in the materials used. Weathered stone might just need sealant applied, while severely damaged surfaces may require patchwork or even a full restoration from an experienced professional. Sandblasting can be a great option for textured surfaces to remove grime, while dry pointing — injecting mortar into horizontal pores — can be used as a preventative measure often employed by experienced masons to stabilize aging stones. 

Restoration Services Offered by Abstract Masonry

  • Chimney Repair
  • Crack Repair
  • Custom Stone Carving
  • Masonry Cleaning
  • Paint Stripping
  • Repointing
  • Stone Replacement
  • Water Repellent

Why Does Historic Restoration Matter?

Many people are in the habit of throwing something away and replacing it at the first sign of a problem. Why fix up an old house when you can just build a new one? We’re in the camp that supports the restoration and repair of historic buildings, and you may be asking yourself why it matters.

When it comes to historic buildings, the importance of restoration cannot be overstated. Professional masonry repair and restoration services are integral to not only preserving a building’s beauty and character but also its structural integrity. Fully restoring a structure can help maintain watertight protection and extend its life when done by a certified craftsman. Giving new life to an existing structure preserves a piece of history and offers benefits to the community.

Community Benefits of Restoring Historic Structures

  • Reusing materials from existing structures reduces the need for new resources, allowing for sustainability as well as an appreciation of history. 
  • Bricks, stones, and other building components retain their character over time and bring or maintain visual interest in the community. 
  • Restoring a local landmark or public space shows a willingness to invest in an existing community and its cultural history.

How to Choose the Right Mason for Historical Repairs and Restoration

Choosing the right mason for a historical repair or restoration project can seem intimidating, but with the right research, anyone can make an informed decision and feel confident in finding the perfect fit for their job. It’s important to look for masons that specialize in restoring and repairing historical buildings, as those are most familiar with structures that have been standing for generations. 

Additionally, you should ensure they have experience in the particular method of work needed. Historical repairs and restorations require specialized knowledge due to a variety of factors: local rules regarding any changes to be made which require a permit, recommended materials and techniques to preserve the building’s history, and so on. 

The right masonry expert will be able to answer your questions competently and provide you with options depending on your budget and timeline, plus they can deliver quality assurance by properly validating their methods in a written contract. Hiring professionals is always recommended – ultimately, it saves time and money in the long run. You can see our portfolio of work online with examples of our expertise HERE.