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Why Masonry Work Deserves a Professional, Not a Patch Job
Few aesthetics compare with the beauty of well laid brickwork. One can appreciate the quality whether you are taking in a two-hundred-year-old historically protected townhouse or a brand new porch with terraced gardens and an archway. It is so much more than slapping down layers of brick and mortar. Masonry is a statement of time, creativity, knowledge, and labor.
Which is also why you should trust the professionals to get the job done right.
What is a Mason?
A mason is a professional who works with bricks, stones, concrete, and other such materials for building and construction. However, this goes far beyond the basic application. Masons don’t just put down layers of brick and mortar but have spent years gaining a better understanding of what bricks should be used for what manner of project. They can identify potential problems and form solutions to overcome or circumvent the issue without compromising the integrity of the build. They understand the composition of the materials they work with and know what is going to give the best results.
Types of Masons
For the most part, masons learn a wide array of skills and techniques as they develop in the field, but like any professional, most choose an area of expertise to thrive in. There is a lot of creativity and passion when it comes to masonry, allowing for some unusual and breathtaking designs.
Brickmason
Stonemason
Cement Mason
Paving Stone Installer
Plasterer
Tile & Marble Setter
Terrazzo Worker
Refractory Mason
Monument Mason
Conservation Mason
Masonry is often responsible for more of the modern infrastructure than we often recognize. It is often a physically demanding job in harsh environments where a mistake can be costly. Knowledge of safety and a keen understanding of the underlying process go a long way towards preventing mishaps and knowing how to keep your team and your project safe.
The Problem(s) with DIY
We all want to be more hands-on when it comes to our lives. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to have a brick oven in the backyard, but if you want to cook anything decent with it, then perhaps it’s time to call in the professionals.
Budget-Friendly vs. Lack of Expertise: It may seem cheaper just to do things yourself, but you will pay for it in the long run by making mistakes you didn’t even know were mistakes. Choosing the wrong brick, failing to lay a proper foundation, poor structure, and a hundred other little things can go wrong, resulting in wasted materials, wasted time, and wasted money.
Sense of Accomplishment vs. Time: You have a life. That life involves work, family, errands, chores, and a myriad of other responsibilities, turning your masonry project into a long-term hobby. That’s all well and good if that is what you wanted out of this project. When you hire a professional, they have three assignments. Do the job. Do it right. Do it on time.
Gaining a New Skill vs. Safety Hazards: Learning a new skill can be immensely satisfying, no doubt. It certainly doesn’t hurt to invest some time and knowledge in masonry. When you are planning a project that can affect the value of your property, the safety of your family, and the overall satisfaction of your environment, it’s best to call on the professionals. They have the right tools, equipment, and safety instructions to handle things.
Insurance: For many of us, attempting to DIY a home repair issue is like setting your home insurance policy on fire. Masons are certified and insured, meaning that if something goes wrong, it’s more than likely covered.
How to Stay Involved: Take some time to decide what your budget is and how you want to invest it. Put your focus on choosing the right materials for the job before letting aesthetic design have its say. Don’t be afraid to let your contractor know what you have in mind; bring a mood board to the meeting if you like! But be open to working with their suggestions and pay attention to their advice. Ask questions and learn what you can from their expertise. Stay clear of the workers, but don’t be shy about observing from a safe area.
Masonry can be a magnificent addition to your home and bring a sense of classical taste to the neighborhood. Its appeal is well known, but building, repairing, or replacing can be an undertaking. Rely on professionals like our Hicon team not only to get you what you need but help create what you want on an efficient timeline and flexible budget.