When you’re considering the long term life and health of your chimney and other masonry, applying a water repellent solution is key, not only to maintain aesthetic appeal but also to forestall expensive repairs down the line.
Brick and stone are forgiving materials, so it’s easy to think of them as impenetrable. It’s even easier to discount the effect of water--something that seems rather mild when compared to stone or brick--on your masonry work.
Over time, rain and snow (especially when combined with rapidly changing temperatures, such as those we experience in Oklahoma) can have an adverse effect on masonry, both in terms of appearance, by causing fading or discoloration, and also structurally, by absorption and the retraction and expansion that heat and cold alternately cause.
At American Chimney, we pride ourselves on our masonry work. 30 years of experienced craftsmanship goes into our consultation and construction, and it informs the products we choose to use on the projects that clients retain us to complete.
Brick and stone work are investments; people use both for homes and offices because of their strength and rugged charm, but without waterproofing, those qualities are curtailed. To maintain the appearance and integrity of your masonry work--and enhance its longevity--waterproofing is necessary. Chimneys, patios, mailboxes, and home exteriors can all benefit from waterproofing.
Naturally, we recommend engaging a professional to do this (and if you’re in the Oklahoma City or Norman metro area, of course, we would love to be the professionals you choose), but we don’t suggest this simply to promote self-interest; unless waterproofing is correctly applied, the positives are minimized. (Or totally thwarted.) Home improvement stores have a number of products that claim to be professional-grade and tout the process as an easy one, but waterproofing masonry work incorrectly isn’t something you want to do. It’s a mistake that might cost you time in addition to money...and it may be a mistake that takes a while to discover.
If brick or stone is not sufficiently cleaned and the surface properly prepared before waterproofing, you could be sealing in unseen problems, or applying an uneven protective coating. (Note: Waterproofing is also different from sealing. Call us to learn more about the differences and what we recommend.)
Not only are there ideal products and methods to use, but there are also certain environmental factors to take into account. Porous materials like brick respond to very hot or cold weather, and certain seasons are preferable for application. When you factor in the varying qualities of brick, it may also be beneficial to repair or replace some of your masonry work before waterproofing it. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of waterproofing, and talk to us about scheduling a consultation and/or appointment, so that we can help you make the most informed choices about your masonry work.
At American Chimney we have years of experience with waterproofing brick and stone in the Oklahoma City metro area, and we love helping customers make the most of their masonry work by extending its health and aesthetic appeal for years to come.
