Over time, masonry will begin to break down. Even the highest quality craftsmanship during the initial construction process can’t prevent the eventual need for some degree of work. Advanced Restoration is ready to tackle your masonry restoration project in the Milwaukee area no matter what the current state of your property is, and that includes masonry reconstruction. Masonry, which includes individual units of brick, stone, and other sturdy materials, may become damaged if they aren’t cared for. This takes away from the appearance of a structure and may even result in structural instability. Like the mortar between masonry units, masonry itself is exposed to the elements day after day, year after year. Builders choose the strongest materials during fabrication, but even the most durable are vulnerable. This is why masonry restoration is one of the services we offer for returning your property to as close to its original condition and integrity as possible.
When Masonry Restoration Services are Needed
Masonry and brick restoration is one of many services that can preserve the integrity and attractiveness of a structure. Masonry restoration is needed when damaged masonry units need to be repaired or replaced. When whole wall sections are too far gone to save, that work becomes reconstruction. Often, masonry restoration is part of a bigger project that can include repointing, tuckpointing, facade cleaning, masonry repair, brick repair or a combination of different services. It can also be a standalone process. Masonry restoration is a common part of preserving historic buildings, but even if your property is not considered historic, it may still be necessary or suited to your needs.
Masonry Repair vs. Restoration vs. Reconstruction
Masonry repair fixes one specific problem, like a cracked brick or a failing mortar joint. Restoration returns a wall or facade to its original look and condition. Reconstruction removes and rebuilds sections of masonry that can’t be saved.
Which one you need depends on how far the damage has spread, and many buildings need more than one. One elevation might only need a few bricks replaced, while the street-facing facade needs full restoration and a parapet has to be rebuilt. Our evaluation sorts out what each area needs so you aren’t paying for more work than the building calls for.
| Repair | Restoration | Reconstruction | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it addresses | Isolated damage | Overall condition and appearance | Sections too damaged to save |
| Typical work | Brick replacement, crack filling, mortar patching | Cleaning, repointing, unit replacement, material matching | Taking down and rebuilding wall sections |
| Best fit | Damage caught early | Aging or historic masonry | Bulging, leaning, or unstable walls |
For a deeper look, read our guide on the difference between masonry repair, restoration, and reconstruction.
Brick Repair
Brick repair fixes or replaces cracked, spalling, or crumbling bricks before the damage spreads to the wall around them. In Milwaukee, freeze-thaw cycles are a common cause. Water soaks into the brick, freezes, expands, and can break the face right off.
Depending on the damage, we may remove and replace individual bricks, fill cracks, or repoint the mortar joints around them so water stops getting in. Matching matters too. We source brick that fits the original size, color, and texture so the repair blends into the wall.
Signs your brick needs attention:
- Flaking or chipped brick faces
- Stair-step cracks running through mortar joints
- Loose or shifting bricks
- Mortar crumbling out of the joints
Brick repair often goes hand in hand with tuckpointing and repointing. Learn more about how professional brick repair improves building safety.
Facade Repair
Facade repair fixes damage to the outside face of a building, including brick, stone, lintels, and sealants, so the exterior stays watertight and structurally sound. On multistory and older buildings, it also keeps loose masonry from becoming a hazard to people below.
Most facade repair starts with a facade inspection to find where water is getting in and which areas are loose or failing. From there, work may include brick or stone replacement, lintel repair, sealant replacement, or facade cleaning to restore the building’s original look. We handle each repair with the whole exterior in mind, so fixing one problem doesn’t create another.
Our Masonry Restoration Process
The thoughtful and attentive restoration of a building’s masonry can keep it looking beautiful for decades to come. The process requires a professionally trained mason to evaluate the structure or problem area, make a plan, and replace the compromised masonry units with new ones. It is also possible that parts of the project only require filling cracks to prevent them from worsening. Depending on the problem areas in the building and the present condition, the masonry restoration process may include:
- In-Depth Evaluation – The first step in a quality restoration is a thorough evaluation of the property to understand the scope of the project.
- Damage Removal – Once the work is underway, our contractors will carefully remove damaged masonry.
- Sourcing Materials – Finding the right materials for historic building restoration is crucial. We source materials that will match the original masonry to maintain a building’s distinct character.
- Tuckpointing or Repointing – Fresh mortar is applied, and tuckpointing or repointing of the mortar joints is completed. This step often involves precise mortar repair to ensure a watertight seal and structural durability.
- Unit Replacement – We replace damaged masonry with newly sourced materials, seamlessly integrating new with existing units.
Start Preserving Your Milwaukee-Area Building Today
Every stone restoration and repair project is unique, so talking to the licensed masonry experts from Advanced Restoration is the first step in the process of getting the right repairs for your property. It may be difficult to tell without professional input whether your building needs repair, restoration, or reconstruction, and how that work fits into a larger project. Whether you are in need for residential masonry services or professional commercial masonry repair, our team of experts can evaluate and make a plan for your property to ensure its longevity. So, if you’re in need of professional masonry services, give Advanced Restoration a call!
