Our Customer-centric Approach

Masonry

There is a simple reason why masonry is one of the oldest methods of construction: it offers benefits not possible with other building materials.

What is Masonry Construction?

Masonry is a method of construction that involves creating load bearing, self supporting structures by stacking materials (such as brick, stone, concrete) together. Typically, the masonry units are laid down with mortar (a thick paste that eventually hardens) that binds them together to form a vertical structure.

In short, masonry is how your home and other elements (such as a chimney or stone wall) are constructed. Its structural function is to be self-supporting and load bearing because the walls will evenly distribute the weight to the foundation and into the ground.

The fact that masonry has been around for centuries speaks directly to its inherent advantages but, not all masonry construction is the same. The fact of the matter is, without proper installation and the use of quality materials the masonry work will not be durable, reliable or able to withstand time because it will not be able to handle the prolonged stress of the weight of the building elements. As with any other home improvement project, there are advantages and disadvantages in quality masonry construction.

Advantages of Quality Masonry Construction

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Long Lasting and Durable

Masonry buildings and structures have a longer lifespan than other types of buildings. In addition, masonry provides natural resistance to rot and pests.

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Low Maintenance

Outside of periodic mortar repointing, joint sealing and cleaning, quality masonry construction is one less thing to worry about.

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Non-Cumbustible

Masonry offers natural fire protection because the stone helps to prevent fire from spreading to other structures.

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Curb Appeal

Depending on the materials used, masonry provides a natural aesthetic unmatched by any other construction material.

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Strength

When installed properly, masonry can withstand a large amount of weight. In fact, masonry structures are specifically designed to keep your home and property on solid ground.

Considerations

While masonry offers obvious advantages, there are several other factors that should be considered before embarking on a home masonry project.

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Weight

Masonry consists of using heavy materials such as brick, stone and concrete. This is one of the most important reasons to ensure that you hire a qualified professional.

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Stability

Without a proper foundation, any material laid on an uneven surface or unsound foundation will not be able to withstand both weight and time.

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Installation

Masonry is a highly specialized skill that requires training and experience. Without proper installation, the entire structure may be compromised.

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Damage

Any cracks or damage must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent the infiltration of moisture, pest or further degradation.

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Weather

Masonry cannot be constructed during heavy rain or cold weather conditions as the mortar will not be able to dry adequately.

Types of Masonry

Masonry services generally fall into two categories:

Solid Structure

  • Built to support its weight
  • Thick layer of brick/stone/concrete to form a solid wall
  • Concrete or cinder blocks are often used for the inner layer because it is typically not seen and provides insulation properties

Veneer

  • Decorative in purpose and not load bearing
  • Used on the exterior walls of a structure
  • Made of thin brick or stone that provide the illusion of substance

Masonry Construction Materials

There are a variety of materials that can be used in the construction of any masonry structure, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Brick

Pros:

  • Easier to install than other masonry materials (since the shape and size of each brick is uniform)
  • Fire resistant
  • Less expensive than stone
  • Great for door or window openings

Cons:

  • Susceptible to seismic damage
  • Lower resistance to tension and loads (versus stone)
  • Limited sizes and colors available

Stone

Pros:

  • Most durable masonry material
  • Weather resistant
  • Fire resistant
  • Does not bend or dent
  • Aesthetic appeal
  • Versatility (variety of colors, types, sizes and textures)
  • Low maintenance
  • Pest resistant

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Specialized skill (not conducive to DIY)
  • Cannot be altered, repaired or relocated
  • Expensive

Concrete

Pros:

  • Weather resistant
  • Fire resistant
  • Pest resistant
  • Easily available
  • Versatility (Variety of finishes, textures and colors)
  • Some concrete is manufactured from recycled materials
  • Good insulating properties (one of the reasons why it is often used on the inner layer)

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Expensive
  • Required steel reinforcement
  • Plumbing issues are difficult to solve
  • Can create interior (of the concrete block) flooding and pooling
Our Customer-centric Approach

Masonry Services

There is a wide range of masonry services, and each requires a highly qualified professional with the proper knowledge and specialized skills. Honey Do Men is certified, licensed and insured to tackle any type of masonry project which will ensure your home withstands the test of time.

The following is a sample of some of the quality masonry services we offer:

  • Foundations
  • Restorative Waterproofing
  • Concrete Construction and Repair
  • Stucco Construction and Repair
  • Stone Construction and Repair
  • Brick Construction and Repair
  • Exterior Wall Construction and Repair
  • Chimney Construction and Repair
  • Stone Preservation and Repair
  • Hardscaping
  • Walkways
  • Home Exteriors
  • Stairs
  • Veneer Installation and repair
  • Paving
  • Driveways
  • Sidewalks
  • Stamped Concrete
  • Courtyards
  • Patios
  • Repointing/Caulking
  • Retaining walls
  • Fireplace/Fire pits
  • Custom Design
  • Drainage
  • Acid wash
  • Pressure wash
  • Soft wash
  • Pool Decks & Patios

Honey Do Men is an award winning masonry contractor. Our skilled professionals will work with you to ensure that your home and property not only looks great, but can withstand the test of time. Call us today for a complimentary consultation!

Call us today for a complimentary consultation!

Our Customer-centric Approach

Hardscaping

One of the biggest trends in home improvement is extending outdoor living spaces. In fact, creating bespoke hardscapes is one of our most requested services because not only does it add functionality, it enhances the landscape and brings harmony to the surroundings.

Hardscaping elements can be incorporated virtually anywhere in your exterior space and can add dimension to your yard. The only limitation is your imagination.

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What is Hardscaping?

Your home’s exterior consists of both hardscapes and softscapes. Most properties consist of a combination of both elements because they bring harmony to, and unify the surroundings. While they are completely opposite of each other, hardscapes and softscapes are both necessary to maximize the functionality and visual appeal of your home.

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Softscaping

In short, softscapes are the growing, living outdoor elements of your yard - plants, shrubs etc. Typically the horticultural elements add to the aesthetic appeal of the yard, but are not the focal points.

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Hardscaping

Hardscapes consist of the nonliving elements of your yard - typically manmade items such as patios, walkways, retaining walls etc. Many hardscapes separate the various outdoor living spaces to create physical boundaries.

Considerations

The surge in hardscaping projects is a testament to the popularity of outdoor living. As with any other home improvement project, there are several things to consider before embarking on your hardscaping project journey:

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Planning

A hardscaping project should never be an impulse decision. Hardscapes require advanced planning so that you are able to achieve the look you want. In addition, when properly planned out, hardscapes will reduce the amount of water required to maintain the surrounding landscape.

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Foundation

Hardscaping should be constructed to last. As such, special consideration (and attention) should be given to the foundation of any hardscaping you put in. This is definitely not an area where you want to cut corners.

Increases Home Value

Materials

Hardscaping should be constructed to last. As such, special consideration (and attention) should be given to the foundation of any hardscaping you put in. This is definitely not an area where you want to cut corners.

Increases Home Value

Drainage

Depending on the construction, hardscaping is a great way to address areas in your yard that don’t drain properly. The various hardscape elements can prevent water from pooling and drainage/irrigation systems can be installed.

Increases Home Value

Location

Hardscapes can also provide additional privacy and mask traffic noise. Hardscaping elements are typically visible all year, so the structure(s) should offer a sense of permanence while highlighting certain architectural features.

Our Customer-centric Approach

Types of Hardscapes

There are a wide variety of hardscaping options to choose from, and most often homeowners incorporate a variety of hardscaping elements in order to create a cohesive aesthetic.

Examples of hardscapes include, but are not limited to:

  • Patios
  • Decks
  • Retaining Walls
  • Fireplaces/Fire Pits
  • Stone/Brick/Concrete Edging
  • Outdoor Kitchens
  • Paths Walkways
  • Driveways
  • Brick/Stone/Concrete Steps
  • Pillars/Columns
  • Fountains
  • Gazebos
  • Waterfalls
  • Garden Statues/Bird Baths

When it comes to creating an outdoor oasis, the sky's the limit. However, hardscaping requires expertise. The key to achieving a functional, yet beautiful extension of your living space is to combine both hardscaping and softscaping elements to incorporate balance and curb appeal.

Honey Do Men has over two decades of experience creating stunning spaces that are built to last. We will ask you the important questions to help you plan a bespoke space that will work best within your budget.

In 2022, Honey Do Men was awarded a Qualified Remodeler Master Design Award for one of our hardscaping projects.

To Schedule A Complimentary Consultation With One Of Our Specialists,

Text Or Call 914-837-0411

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