DIY Masonry Work: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Masonry work is something that more and more homeowners are starting to venture into, whether it is building a retaining wall or performing repairs to a chimney or fireplace. Reasons vary from wanting to save money to be more self-sufficient, which is why they are not hiring a professional masonry contractor.
Of course, not all DIY masonry projects will turn out the way they are supposed to. As everyone starts with the best intentions, but without having the right tools or experience, things can go wrong very fast. Here are a few reasons why DIY masonry can go south.
Not using the right mortar
There are different types of bricks and mortar, however, not all are compatible with one another. So you should do some research to determine what combinations are available in your area, if you are starting from scratch, consider talking to a masonry specialist about your project. Otherwise, you will end up using the wrong combination, and the structure will fail in a short amount of time.
Waterproofing old bricks and mortar
A lot of DIY jobs will involve masonry repair, and homeowners frequently use waterproofing solutions on old bricks and mortar to extend their lifespan. Sadly, what they could be doing is the exact opposite, this is because the moisture is already inside the old bricks, which means you are effectively trapping it.
Incorrect flashing techniques
Flashing is extremely important when you are looking to protect your brick walls, as it stops the masonry from accruing water damage. There are numerous common mistakes when it comes to flashing installation, the most common though is to leave too much space between the weep holes, thus allowing water to seep in.
If you are looking for a Urbandale, IA based masonry contractor, please call Des Moines Masonry first if you live or work in or around the Urbandale, IA area, at this number (515) 355-3123 today for an appointment.
