Alexandria Town Money Saver | February MID 2021

Repair/Restoration

Restoration is a core element in our services here at CMR.

An innovative team of experienced masons dedicated to providing quality repairs and preventative treatments to various types of masonry systems and structures.

A combination of traditional and current techniques are used to provide essential and nonessential repairs and renovations to both common and unique masonry structures.

Repair/Restoration

• Tuck-pointing

• Historic Preservation

• Facade Restoration

• Chemical Cleanings

• Stabilization

•Parapet Wall Repair

•Mortar Matching

Masonry Units/Systems

• Brick Veneer

• CMU Veneer

• Stone Veneer

• Terra-cotta

• Custom Masonry

• Interior Masonry

• Exterior Masonry

• Limestone

• Sandstone

• Retaining Walls

• Chimneys

Other Services

• Stone Molds

• Casting

• Decorative Stone

• Re-Installment

• Building Alterations

Consulting & Planning

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Looking To Clean Up Some Masonry?

There are many types of masonry units, let’s take a moment to discuss two similar but unique types. When cleaning brick and terra-cotta, there are many things to consider. Although they are both red clay, that doesn't mean they have the same properties or sensitivities.

An important factor to think about is the understanding of the material used, how they react with dirt on them, and how they might react when said dirt is removed.

Another factor is the mortar used in the construction of the masonry units. Traditional brickwork mortars consist of soft mixtures of lime and sand. Meaning that mortar is usually softer than the bricks themselves. When cleaning, if the mortar isn't considered it could unexpectedly suffer severe damage. The amount of weathering and its effects are also a vital part of understanding the material.

Any chemicals used on established brickwork should be low strength and neatly applied. Once left to sit for its necessary duration, it should thoroughly be rinsed at

low pressures to ensure ow control and proper removal of chemicals. The porosity of the brick also needs to be taken into account. A more porous brick will have a higher absorbency which can affect, or even de ne, the parameters of chemical used.

Architectural terra-cotta became a trend in England during the 1800s and much of it remains standing today. It is one of the easiest materials to damage by incorrect cleaning. Just like brickwork, the soiling likely found is not water-soluble. Both glazed and unglazed terra-cotta surfaces usually soil in heavily saturated areas, particularly areas closest to the mortar joints. Although the soiling on terra-cotta is generally an intense black, it is usually a thin and stubborn layer to remove. Techniques like abrasive cleaning, forms of mechanical cleaning, acid, and/or alkaline cleaning can cause severe damage if done incorrectly.

CMR offers several techniques to combat the soiling of masonry units. Have a conversation with a representative to discuss your unique situation.