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
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, pests, and to Rot and Pests.
Low Maintenance
Outside of periodic mortar repointing, joint sealing and cleaning, quality masonry construction is one less thing to worry about.
Non-Cumbustible
Masonry offers natural fire protection because the stone helps to prevent fire from spreading to other structures.
Curb Appeal
Depending on the materials used, masonry provides a natural aesthetic unmatched by any other construction material.
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.
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.
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.
Installation
Masonry is a highly specialized skill that requires training and experience. Without proper installation, the entire structure may be compromised.
Damage
Any cracks or damage must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent the infiltration of moisture, pest or further degradation.
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
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
Requires steel reinforcement
Plumbing issues are difficult to solve
Can create interior (of the concrete block) flooding and pooling
Expensive to repair
Cannot be altered, repaired or relocated
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 Restoration
Hardscaping
Walkways
Home Exteriors
Stairs
Veneer Installation and Repair
Paving
Pool Decks
Glass Block Walls
Driveways
Sidewalks
Stamped Concrete
Courtyards
Patios
Repointing / Caulking
Monuments
Retaining walls
Fireplace
Fire pits
Custom Design
Drainage
Acid Wash
Pressure Wash
Soft Wash
Outdoor Kitchens
Fountains
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!
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.
Softscaping vs 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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
Materials
The use of professionally installed quality materials will ensure that the structure’s integrity is sound and built to last. Depending on the particular elements used, hardscapes should complement the style of your home.
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.
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.
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
Stone/Brick/Concrete Steps
Pillars
Columns
Fountains
Gazebos
Waterfalls
Garden Statues
Bird Baths
Ponds
Garden Bed Borders
Stream Beds
Planting Beds
Play Structures
Pools
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.
TESTIMONIALWhat Our Customers Say About Us
Alejandra KingClient
David’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started...Read More
Dave CosmoClient
What an awesome job replacing our front door! Chris, Kip and Silvio were great at managing some of the unexpected...Read More
Paul PlutzkerClient
Thank you Honey do men. I’ve waited 2 years to get my basement redone and couldn’t be more pleased with...Read More
Blair ElefantClient
I had the pleasure of working with Honey Do Men on a tv mount install and hanging multiple items of...Read More
Alejandra KingClient
David’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started promptly and completed everything in the timeframe, as promised. It was unlike prior contractors I experienced, where they don’t show up for days. We knew when they were coming and what they were working on next.
We are very happy with the quality and professionalism of this team. We would be more than happy to do our next house project with Honey Do Men and would recommend them to anyone we know.
Dave CosmoClient
What an awesome job replacing our front door! Chris, Kip and Silvio were great at managing some of the unexpected issues we faced. The team helped us work through them and the installation went smoothly. Excellent communication and support throughout the entire process. Highly recommend Honey Do Men for any home repair/renovation you may have. Thank You!!!
Paul PlutzkerClient
Thank you Honey do men. I’ve waited 2 years to get my basement redone and couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I included a before pic for comparison. It’s night and day. From the beginning working with Vince was great. He guided me through the process, answered all of my questions and concerns. Then Angel came with his crew and did a fantastic job. I am very excited to be able to use my basement as an enticing living space, not just for storage. Thank you again for a job well done! 😀
Blair ElefantClient
I had the pleasure of working with Honey Do Men on a tv mount install and hanging multiple items of varying sizes and weights. They were extremely professional, polite, clean and precise in the work itself and took the stress out of what could’ve been a quite difficult process. I’ll absolutely use them again!
Masonry involves the construction or repair of structures using materials like brick, stone, concrete blocks, or stucco. Common masonry projects for homes include building or repairing chimneys, retaining walls, patios, walkways, fireplaces, and exterior facades. Masonry work adds durability, aesthetic appeal, and value to a home, making it a popular choice for various construction and renovation projects.
Signs that your home may need masonry repair include cracks in exterior brick or stone walls, crumbling mortar joints, leaning chimneys, water infiltration through masonry surfaces, or damage to masonry structures caused by natural disasters or wear and tear over time. It's essential to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the structural integrity of your home.
When selecting a masonry contractor for your home project, consider factors such as the contractor's experience and expertise in masonry work, licensing and insurance, portfolio of past projects, references from satisfied customers, and the ability to provide detailed estimates and timelines. It's also essential to communicate your expectations clearly and ensure the contractor understands your vision for the project.
Masonry materials like brick, stone, and concrete blocks offer several advantages for home construction. They are durable, fire-resistant, and low-maintenance, providing long-lasting protection and structural stability for your home. Additionally, masonry materials offer excellent insulation properties, helping to regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy costs. From an aesthetic standpoint, masonry offers a timeless and classic look that enhances the curb appeal and value of your home.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping hardscaping in good condition. This includes sealing stone or concrete surfaces every few years, removing weeds and debris from between pavers, cleaning surfaces to prevent staining, and inspecting for any cracks or damage that may need repair. Proper drainage around hardscaping features is also important to prevent erosion or water damage.
Yes, well-designed hardscaping can significantly increase your property value. Features like patios, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and retaining walls not only enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your outdoor space but also make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Quality hardscaping is often seen as a worthwhile investment with a good return.
Alejandra King ClientDavid’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started...Read More