Simple Quality Masonry Steps to Help You Fight Winter

Protecting Your Home From Winter

Well-constructed and quality masonry has been thought to be able to stand the test of time. However, the harsh conditions of winters can often break down unprotected brick masonry. An unstable chimney from exposure to weather conditions can be a hazard in the household. We want homeowners and business owners to be well-informed so that they can keep their fireplaces or chimney protected. These simple steps can help alleviate future headaches and costly masonry repair work.

Apply an Outdoor Sealer to Combat Thawing and Freezing

Brick masonry is made of porous materials. This means bricks and mortar soak up moisture much like a sponge, causing them to expand and contract with the freezing and thawing that happens during winter and spring. This continual process contributes to the destabilization of the materials, leading to cracking, loosening bricks, or a full collapse. Avoid these issues by applying a permeable masonry sealer to the masonry exposed to the outdoor elements. This is especially important for historic properties with masonry work that may require more maintenance. If forgotten, it could lead to more frequent masonry repair.

Make Sure to Protect the Inside of a Chimney, Too

The snow on top of the chimney, combined with the heat inside, can cause damage to the flue liner if the melted snow starts to leak down the liner, possibly resulting in rust cracks and holes. This means that toxic fumes and heat will not ventilate properly. Water damage can also cause rusting of the damper as well as damage to the ceiling and walls around the fireplace. Homeowners can avoid internal water damage altogether by having a chimney specialist install a chimney cap at the top of the chimney.

If you are planning a construction project, you should consider hiring City Masonry Inc. We provide quality masonry services in Urbandale, IA. To speak with me, you can call us at (515) 328-6515 today!

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