Journal
The mason's journal.
Plain-English guides on cost, repointing, spalling, efflorescence, chimney checks, patios, mortar color and more, written for Middle Tennessee homeowners and property managers.
Materials and DesignPavers vs Poured Concrete vs Natural Stone for a PatioCost, look, repair and lifespan compared across the three most common patio surfaces, plus where mixing materials makes sense.
Materials and DesignHow to Choose Mortar Color and Joint StyleThe mortar changes how brick looks as much as the brick itself, and the joint style affects how well the wall sheds water.
Materials and DesignBrick Veneer vs Solid Brick: What Is the Difference?Most modern brick homes use a single layer of brick tied to a backing wall, and the details behind the brick decide whether it stays dry.
Chimneys and FireplacesWood or Gas: Choosing Your Outdoor FireplaceHow wood-burning and gas outdoor fireplaces compare on flavor, convenience, cost, upkeep and local rules.
Chimneys and FireplacesChimney Crown Cracks: Why They Matter and What to DoA cracked chimney crown lets water into the brick and flue, and repairing it early prevents bigger bills.
Chimneys and FireplacesA Chimney Checklist Before WinterWhat to look at and ask about before the first fire of the season, from the cap and crown to the flue and the firebox.
Repair and MaintenanceStair-Step Cracks in Brick: When to WorryStair-step cracks follow mortar joints, and their cause ranges from a rusted lintel to settling, so a close look matters.
Repair and MaintenanceEfflorescence: The White Powder on BrickWhat the white salty haze on brick means, whether it hurts the wall and how to get rid of it for good.
Repair and MaintenanceWhy Is My Brick Flaking? Understanding SpallingSpalling, the flaking or peeling of brick faces, usually comes from water, freezing and the wrong mortar or coating, and the cause decides the fix.
Repair and MaintenanceSigns Your Brick Needs RepointingCrumbling mortar, gaps, damp spots and loose bricks are signs that the joints need work, and a quick key-and-eye test can tell you more.
Cost and PlanningHow to Compare Masonry Quotes FairlyA short checklist of what to ask each mason to put in writing so two quotes mean the same thing.
Cost and PlanningRetaining Wall Cost: Height, Materials and DrainageHow a retaining wall's height, material, drainage and engineering change the price, and why the part you cannot see matters most.Cost and PlanningWhat Affects the Cost of Tuckpointing?Wall size, joint depth, height, access and mortar matching all change the price of repointing, and cheap quotes can hide shortcuts.
Cost and PlanningWhat Affects the Cost of a Brick or Paver Patio?The size, the material, the base, the pattern and the site decide what a patio costs, and a few quick questions help you compare bids fairly.