Repair and restoration of masonry for 19th century and older buildings must be undertaken with great care and understanding of the properties of the masonry components. Masonry structures have been built with a mortar of lime and sand for thousands of years and, in some instances, right up to the early part of the 20th century.

 

Repairs such as pointing, cleaning, brick and stone replacement and stone patching are an important part of maintaining historical buildings, but inappropriate mortar, cleaning, and sealants are a major cause of damage to historical masonry buildings.

 

For historically correct masonry repair that will look good and stand up to time and the elements, choosing the right mortar is as important as choosing the right historic masonry contractor. Our master masons are certified and trained by The U.S. Heritage group for the application of lime putty mortar, Cathedral Stone and Jahn mortar in repair of natural stone, terra cotta, brick, plaster, and stucco. 

 

We understand the unique properties of historic masonry including finding the appropriate mortar mix for your property; proper preparation of the masonry joints to make the repair last as long as the original masonry; and matching the existing mortar.

 The repair process begins with the proper analysis of the problem, followed by use of the correct materials along with skilled workmanship to apply those materials.

To ensure correct handling and solutions to historic masonry problems, our personnel perform such diagnostics as product trials, mortar analysis, and more in-depth analysis such as impulse radar or ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to get an accurate assessment of the masonry’s condition.

Many times, historic buildings often have surrounding hardscapes that are quite architecturally significant to the property. This can include stone fountains, masonry walls and pavers, sculptures, urns, historic concrete, wood trellises, etc.  Some of the components in a historic hardscape are now quite valuable and even priceless as unique historic treasures. Proper repair and restoration are critical. SWBL can make these repairs with materials compatible and/or matching the original leaving restored pieces looking like undamaged originals.

Luca Aceto, master mason, has applied his craft to the completion of more than 1,500 projects. His expertise in lime mortar and stone repair mortars, as well as rebuilding old masonry structures, allows him to expertly repair and rebuild historical hardscapes.