We repair We build We restore

- Equitable Building - Regis University - Argonaut Building - St. John's Cathedral 

- Streetcar Stables - Barnes & Noble - Grant Mansion - Pennborough Condominiums 

- Denver Public Library - Tabor Grand Hotel - Polish Church - Curious Theatre Co.

- Silver State Condos - United Methodist Church of Boulder - Modern Bungalow 

- Sheraton Hotel - John Deere Lofts - Drehmoor - Stadium Lofts - Blenheim 

- Chop House - Osage Building - 1127 Auraria Pkwy - El Tovar Apartments 

- Baldwin Building - Larimer Square -  Writer Square -  Winter Park Parking Garage  

- Silver State Lofts - Cadillac Lofts - Icehouse - Street Car Stables - Denver Health

-  Polo Club - Castle Pines - Wash Park 

Proper masonry repair is an art form - it can take years to master. A well-executed repair should not stand out when it is complete. Using matching/complementary materials and the right blend of old and new make the repairs flow aesthetically. Matching mortars, not just color, but using the right mortar mix - appropriate to the age of the structure - is key for the longevity of the structure and preservation of the masonry unit(s).

Many factors can damage masonry units: weather, water, exposure, freeze/thaw cycle, poor repairs, foundational issues, and improper drainage. Many times cracks in masonry structures are exterior signs of internal/foundational issues. These masonry issues can be examined by qualified professionals to determine the best course of action.
 

If masonry units are cracked, spalling, or deteriorated and require replacement, it is important to select the correct replacement materials: size, color, style and finish, and a properly matched mortar each impact the final masonry repair product. When extracting the units, there is danger of damaging the surrounding areas. Finesse and proficient extraction, using old and modern techniques, is key to maintaining the integrity of the structure.
 

A well-matched mortar helps blend the newly replaced masonry units into the surrounding structure. The type of mortar used is important, especially when working on old/historic masonry. New, rock-hard, mortars can actually cause more harm than good when applied incorrectly to older homes and buildings made with softer mortar. It is important to understand the original mix used on a structure, then recreate a matching mix for masonry repairs. 

Have a masonry repair project? Let us know how we can help! 

Masonry Restoration and Preservation
 

Masonry restoration can take many forms - it can involve structural repairs and/or cosmetic work. We offer "face-lifts" for homes and buildings - usually including restoration cleaning the envelope of the structure, removing decades of staining, pollution, and grime from the façade. Sometimes it requires removing/replacing damaged brick/masonry units from the structure. Tuck-pointing or repointing is often needed when restoring a building or home - shifting and settling, weather, and exposure often play a big role in the deterioration of mortar joints.
 

Many decorative features on older buildings are no longer produced, such as decorative terra-cotta features, sandstone carvings, ornate arches and ledges, and patterned designs such as egg and dart, and quatrefoils. These features add unique character to many of our local homes and buildings. Because of modern innovations and technology, we have access to products that allow us to recreate historic features, working from intact samples. If only patching is required, we can do that too.
 

Why settle for a meh job? Let us go that extra mile for you and bring your building/home back to life.
 

Tuck-pointing or Repointing

What do you do if there are cracks in the mortar between your bricks? Or if parts of the mortar have been washed out by rain or snow? That area of your masonry wall needs to be tuck-pointed.
 

Once the area needing repair is identified, a professional mason carefully removes the mortar between the brickwork to a depth of ¾ to 1" - then, properly-matched mortar is formulated to replace the old mortar. Matching mortar includes taking into account the age of the existing mortar, the mortar type and mix, the aggregate used, the base color of the cement, and the correct tints to achieve the right match.

An often overlooked aspect of tuck-pointing is the age and composition of the structure's mortar. Is the mortar soft or hard? Is it lime putty or Type S cement? Is the aggregate large or fine? Would hydrated or hydraulic lime be best suited for the project? Modern day mortars are very hard compared to the lime putty mixes from a hundred years ago. Poor tuck-pointing can actually cause more harm than good to a masonry structure and accelerate its deterioration. It is important to blend compatible materials to create a uniform restoration job. Proper tuck-pointing can take years to learn; it is not easily mastered.

Once the mortar is replaced, the joints are tooled to match the rest of the structure - some joints are concave, flat, cut, weeping, and some reveal exposed aggregate. When tuck-pointing is done correctly, it matches the original work so closely it is not possible to tell where the repair occurred.

Reach out today and let us know how we can help you with your tuck-pointing project.
 

Masonry Construction
 

There is timeless, aesthetic beauty to a well-crafted brick or stone home. Decorative masonry accoutrements  - patios, walkways, BBQ pits, memorials, brick mailboxes and driveways - enhance the appearance of a property. Whether you want to brick up an addition to your home, or add a masonry retaining wall to your front yard, our masons can design and build it for you. We construct masonry walls from the bottom up - from the pouring of concrete footers, to the cap on top of the wall. Brick, block, and stone are durable building materials used for thousands of years. If managed properly, masonry will provide protection from the elements on your property for many years to come.