Brick Pointing vs. Tuckpointing
Should we use the terms interchangeably? In the world of masonry, terminology can often lead to confusion, especially when the same term is used to describe different techniques depending on region or context. Two commonly interchanged terms are “Brick Pointing†and “Tuckpointing.” While they’re sometimes used synonymously in the U.S., they actually refer to distinct […]
How to Screw-Up Manufactured Stone Veneer
Adhered concrete masonry veneer (ACMV) has also been called “manufactured stone, “lick and stick,” “cultured stone,”, and” faux stone”. Some say it’s stucco with chunks of concrete stuck in it. In terms of moisture, anchored masonry veneer isn’t much different than stucco. Builders have learned a lot of hard lessons about stucco over the years and […]
Efflorescence in Concrete and Brick
When I inspect and report the surface conditions of brick and concrete, and use the term efflorescence, it has more aesthetic rather than structural consequences.
What is a Quoin corner
Quoin has come to be known as the accentuation of a building’s corner with short side header bricks or stone blocks and long side stretcher bricks or stone blocks that may or may not differ from the wall masonry in size, color, or texture.
What is That White Powdery Stuff on My Brick Wall?
We know that efflorescence is a fine, white, powdery deposit (see photo at right) of water-soluble salts left on the surface of masonry as the water evaporates. These efflorescent salt deposits tend to appear at the worst times, usually about a month after the building is constructed, and sometimes as long as a year after completion. Three conditions must exist before efflorescence will occur. If one is left out, efflorescence cannot form.