Common Mistakes to Avoid in Masonry Construction and Maintenance and How to Fix Them from Bidding Professionals. As industry experts, we’ve seen many errors that undermine masonry. Discover typical issues in materials, design, waterproofing, and more – plus affordable remedies. Contact bidding Professionals for expert masonry estimating.
Masonry is a fundamental building material for its strength, durability, and aesthetic qualities. However, even the finest brick and stone can only withstand damage with proper construction techniques and ongoing maintenance.
As a full-service masonry consulting and estimating firm, Bidding Professionals has extensive experience in both new masonry projects and remediation of existing structures. Through this article, we explore some of the most common mistakes made in masonry work that can undermine integrity if left unaddressed.
By understanding typical pitfalls, you can safeguard your investment and take steps to prevent costly issues down the road. We will discuss errors in materials, design, waterproofing, and more – along with affordable remedies. So whether designing a new wall system or preserving historic facades, let Bidding Professionals be your trusted resource for optimizing masonry performance both today and for decades to come.
Mistakes in Masonry Construction
As seasoned masonry experts, the estimators at Bidding Professionals have seen their fair share of material selection mistakes on job sites. Improper choice of masonry units can seriously compromise the durability and function of a wall system.
Using incorrectly fired or sized units can lead to cracking and deterioration over time. Underfired clay brick may absorb water and frost-spall in winter. Overfired units become more porous as well. Ensure materials have been thoroughly quality tested.
It’s also crucial to specify masonry suited to the project location and exposure. Heavy limestone is not appropriate for a high-rise in an earthquake zone, for example. Similarly, overly permeable materials like natural stone should generally be avoided in wet basements or showers.
Consider too the mortar. Some types are not compatible with extremely acidic or alkaline masonry. Pool surrounds may need epoxy mortar, while historically accurate lime mortars must be properly formulated.
With the right materials specified and value-engineered from the start, Bidding Professionals help shortcut costly repairs down the line. Don’t risk construction mistakes – rely on our masonry expertise for properly specified, long-lasting walls.
Using the Wrong Mortar
The selection of mortar is just as important as the choice of masonry units. At Bidding Professionals, we’ve seen many issues arise from using an incompatible or improperly mixed mortar.
Perhaps the most common mistake is using Portland cement mortar for historical repointing projects where a softer lime mortar is appropriate. Cement is much harder and doesn’t allow for the same flexible movement. It can cause cracking and spalling over time.
Similarly, epoxy mortars may be specified where a breathable cementitious mix is needed. While durable, epoxies form a vapor barrier that can trap moisture behind the wall.
Insufficient air entrainment is another problem, as air bubbles help the mortar resist weathering from freeze/thaw cycles. Pre-mixed “bucket mortars” also may not contain the right sand gradation or water retention properties.
Failure to Address Cracks Promptly
Cracks in masonry do not necessarily signal imminent failure, but they should not be ignored either. At Bidding Professionals, we see all too often how small cracks that were not repaired promptly evolve into much bigger problems.
All materials will experience some minor cracking as they cure and settle into place. However, if water is allowed to seep deep into a crack over many freeze-thaw cycles, it can cause spalling and further cracking to propagate. It’s important to inspect for cracks regularly, such as after extreme weather events. Cracks less than 1/4 inch can often be filled with elastomeric sealant. Any wider should be cleaned out and repointed.
We also recommend addressing structural cracks promptly before they worsen. Even hairline cracks may signal foundations settling unevenly.
By keeping vigilant maintenance schedules and making prompt, affordable repairs when issues are small, you can forestall much costlier reconstruction down the road. Bidding Professionals offers masonry inspection and crack repair services to keep your walls in top shape.
Improper Bedding and Jointing
Proper installation techniques are imperative to a masonry wall’s durability. At Bidding Professionals, we often see issues arise from sloppy bedding and jointing of materials.
Thin or uneven mortar beds can cause units to shift over time or allow water intrusion behind the wall. The standard 1/4 inch bed depth is recommended to fully support masonry blocks and bricks.
It’s also important to fill and tool mortar joints. Any voids allow water to seep deep inside. Too much mortar squeezed in can also compromise the bond.
Not striking joints when fresh is another frequent mistake. Improperly tooled joints may chip or allow water wicking. Face shells should be compacted slightly.
For historically appropriate repointing, joint widths and profiles are worth preserving to maintain building aesthetics.
Our masonry experts are well-versed in best practices for installation techniques. From foundation laying to veneer work, Bidding Professionals ensure structural integrity through proper bedding and detailing of mortar and units. Compliance with codes helps safeguard durability.
Lack of Proper Planning and Design
All too often at Bidding Professionals, we see masonry issues that could have been avoided with upfront planning and proper design. It’s important to fully consider structural and environmental factors before beginning construction.
For example, not allowing for expansion joints in a long concrete block wall is a recipe for cracking. Thermal bridging at floor lines must also be considered.
Builders often neglect to account for the lateral bracing of tall walls. Without adequate ties or reinforcement, these are at risk of buckling.
Drainage elements like flashings and weep holes are critical to direct water away from the wall face. Omitted or clogged features can lead to costly moisture damage.
Material choices should match the weather exposure, from freeze-thaw zones to coastal salt spray environments. Sheltering porous masonry aids longevity.
At Bidding Professionals, our professional engineers rigorously model wall assemblies. We apply building code knowledge and consider construction sequencing during estimates. Addressing such particulars upfront helps avoid expensive pitfalls down the road. Proper planning is key for long-lasting masonry.
Mistakes in Masonry Maintenance
While proper construction is important, ongoing maintenance is just as crucial for preserving masonry over the long term. At Bidding Professionals, we often assess structures where neglect has led to costly issues.
Neglecting to seal walls exposes porous substrates to inevitable weathering. Unprotected surfaces will slowly deteriorate from freeze-thaw cycles and air pollution.
Similarly, failing to repoint mortar joints allows water to track deeper and cause interior damage. We recommend repointing every 10-20 years depending on exposure.
Not clearing drainage lines allows moisture to back up. Keeping downspouts and weep holes clean sheds water effectively.
Ignoring minor cracks and spalls will inevitably lead to worsening deterioration if left unchecked. Annual inspections allow small issues to be repaired before major reconstruction is needed.
Overgrown vegetation too close to walls often hides more moisture and insect problems. Keeping plantings pruned and pulled back is prudent.
With a dedicated maintenance program tailored to the construction materials and environmental exposure, expensive remediation costs can be avoided down the line. Bidding Professionals offers annual maintenance plans and inspections to keep structures shipshape.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Proper ongoing maintenance is one of the most important factors in ensuring masonry longevity. At Bidding Professionals, we often evaluate structures suffering deterioration that could have been prevented through diligent upkeep. Developing a regular maintenance schedule is critical.
Annual inspections allow any issues to be noted and addressed before minor problems escalate. Checking for cracks, spalling, leaning walls or other defects catches small faults early.
Resealing is also imperative to repel water and shed salts or chemicals from the environment. Left unsealed, a wall will prematurely deteriorate from repeated wetting and drying. Most experts recommend re-application.
Replacing deteriorated caulk, sealants or flashings prevents moisture ingress. Monitoring for cracks or voids ensures water is shed properly.
Removal of vegetation growing too close to the base offers drainage and prevents roots from infiltrating. Pests like rodents or carpenter ants are also less able to cause hidden damage.
With a diligent maintenance plan tailored to the property, costly repairs down the line can easily be avoided. Bidding Professionals provides customized programs to keep protected masonry beautiful for decades.
Incorrect Waterproofing and Flashing
Two of the most important details to address in any masonry project are proper waterproofing and flashing. At Bidding Professionals, we often evaluate mistakes that have led to moisture problems.
Incomplete or missing membrane installations behind veneers, at foundation walls, or on plaza decks are a recipe for issues. Leaks develop that are costly to repair.
Misapplied coatings and sealants that are not compatible can delaminate over time. Ensuring proper adhesion and compatibility saves hassle later.
Not integrating seamless flashing at roof lines, windows, and doors allows water to migrate unchecked. Flashing should divert moisture out and lap properly.
Penetrations like utility boxes are forgotten leak points if not addressed. Water migrates inward and degrades substrates.
Sloped flashing must direct water out, not just dam it up temporarily. We ensure positive drainage and defense against hydrostatic pressure.
Our experts properly specify, install, and detail waterproofing systems to shield vulnerable building materials. From below-grade to high-rise work, Bidding Professionals delivers durable long-term protection.
Exposure to Adverse Weather
When masonry is not designed and maintained properly, even routine weathering can accelerate issues. At Bidding Professionals, we have assessed structures where exposure to adverse conditions was not adequately addressed.
Masonry is highly porous and will inevitably absorb water, whether from rainfall, snowmelt, or humidity. Repeated wetting and drying promotes deterioration if unprotected.
Freeze-thaw cycles are also destructive as moisture expands frost within crevices or cracks. Using weather-resilient materials is important in colder climates.
Salt spray in coastal areas progressively degrades masonry as waters deposit corrosive salts. Specialized sealers create a barrier against this.
Air pollution containing acid rain, gases, or particulate matter embeds contaminants that degrade masonry over decades of exposure. Protective topcoats are recommended.
Proper materials, construction techniques, coatings, and maintenance all work together to shield masonry from inevitable weather assaults. Bidding Professionals rigorously specify assembles suited for each project’s climatic demands.
Failure to Address Efflorescence and Corrosion
Over time, even the hardest-wearing masonry materials can develop cosmetic or structural issues if efflorescence and corrosion are not promptly handled. At Bidding Professionals, we frequently assess damage that could have been prevented through timely care.
Efflorescence appears as a powdery white deposit on the surface, which forms as soluble salts migrate from within the wall and crystallize upon contact with moisture. While mostly aesthetic, it can indicate moisture ingress.
Corrosion shows up as rust spots where metals like iron anchors have oxidized behind a facade. This puts stress on the surrounding materials and leads to spalling if left uncorrected.
Both issues need treating at the source by removing deposits, identifying water sources, repairing seals, and providing ventilation. Surface brushing only treats symptoms.
Ignoring minor occurrences allows salts to accumulate deeper, attract more moisture, and promote faster deterioration. Failure to act turns the powder into pop-outs and rust into holes.
At Bidding Professionals, we carry out prompt investigations into causes like rising dampness or deicing salts. Swift mitigation strategies prevent minor blemishes from becoming expensive reconstruction projects down the line.
Last Words
In summary, proper materials selection, construction methods, installation techniques, coatings, sealants, and ongoing maintenance are all necessary to ensure masonry endures beautifully and structurally sound for decades to come.
At Bidding Professionals, we have extensive experience assessing masonry in all its phases from new construction to restoration to preventative care. Our team of experts can evaluate your property, identify any weaknesses, and recommend customized solutions and long-term maintenance plans tailored to your budget to avoid costly pitfalls down the road. Please contact us for a free consultation so we can help you maximize the lifespan of your valuable masonry investments.
