How to Care for Your Masonry And Keep It Looking It’s Best

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Masonry is one of the most durable and timeless building materials around—whether it’s a classic brick wall, a stone patio, or a concrete block foundation. But even the strongest materials need a little TLC now and then. Regular maintenance helps protect your investment, prevents costly repairs, and keeps your property looking its best.

At Classic Masonry NY, LLC., we’ve built our reputation on quality work that lasts. To help you get the most out of your masonry, here are our top tips for proper care and maintenance:

1. Keep It Clean

Over time, dirt, mildew, and moss can build up on your masonry, especially in damp or shady areas.

How to Clean It:

  • Use a soft brush and mild detergent for regular cleaning.
  • For tougher stains, a power washer can help—just keep the pressure moderate to avoid damaging the mortar.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach unless you’re dealing with mold, and always rinse thoroughly.

2. Inspect It Annually

Masonry doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, but it does benefit from a yearly inspection.

What to Look For:

  • Cracks in the mortar or masonry units
  • Loose or missing bricks/stones
  • White powdery substance (efflorescence) caused by water seeping through
  • Discoloration or damp spots, which could indicate water damage

Spotting these early can help prevent small issues from turning into major repairs.

3. Seal It Up

Sealing your masonry can add an extra layer of protection against water, freeze-thaw cycles, and staining.

When to Seal:

  • Seal newly installed masonry after it’s fully cured (usually 28 days).
  • Reapply sealant every 3–5 years, or sooner if water no longer beads up on the surface.

Always use a breathable, masonry-specific sealer to allow moisture to escape and prevent trapping water inside.

4. Mind The Plants

Vines and climbing plants may look charming, but they can cause real damage to masonry.

Why It Matters:

  • Roots can wedge into cracks and expand them over time.
  • Trapped moisture encourages mold and weakens mortar joints.

If you love the green look, consider potted plants or freestanding trellises instead.

5. Protect it From Water

Water is the #1 enemy of masonry. Freeze-thaw cycles in particular can cause major damage.

What You Can Do:

  • Make sure gutters and downspouts are directing water away from masonry walls.
  • Avoid letting sprinklers or hoses constantly hit the same area.
  • Check that ground slopes away from your foundation to reduce standing water.

6. Call In The Pros For Repairs

Even well-maintained masonry will need occasional touch-ups. Cracks, crumbling mortar, or loose bricks shouldn’t be ignored.

Professional repairs include:

  • Tuckpointing: replacing old, damaged mortar with fresh material
  • Crack repair and reinforcement
  • Full restoration of aging masonry

Trying to DIY masonry repairs can make things worse. When in doubt, give us a call.

Trust the Experts at Classic Masonry NY, LLC.

With proper care, your brick, stone, or block masonry can last a lifetime—and then some. If you’re not sure what your masonry needs, or if you’ve noticed signs of wear and tear, we’re here to help.

📞 Call us today at 716-206-4142 for a free inspection or estimate.