Search Results for: plaster crack repair

Cordless drill, wrench, drill bit, and assorted screws on wood

Mounting shelves on block walls: fasteners that don’t crumble the web

Introduction When mounting shelves on block walls, use fasteners and anchors designed to grip blocks without damaging their inner web. Choose from practical options such as masonry screws, toggles, and anchors designed for hollow or solid blocks. Select based on your wall type and the expected weight of your shelves. When installing, consider the drilling […]

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Person cutting white foam insulation board on table saw

Interior moisture management on block walls: furring, insulation, and vapor strategy that won’t trap water

Introduction Interior moisture management on block walls is the practice of keeping the wall assembly dry by separating the concrete from finishes with furring, insulation, and a controlled vapor path. This hands‑on approach focuses on airflow, condensation control, and dry finishes rather than relying on the concrete to act as a wet surface. Work with

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Close-up of stacked stone veneer wall in various brown shades

Brick veneer bulging: warning signs and why ‘just tuckpoint it’ is risky

Introduction Brick veneer bulging is when the outer brick layer appears to poke out or push away from the structure. This article focuses on what to watch for and why it matters in practical terms. It’s a hands-on topic, not a theoretical guide. Look for bulging along walls near openings, or where the veneer seems

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Hand holding drill making hole in brick wall

Salt damage to brick near sidewalks: preventing splashback and replacing compromised units

Introduction Salt damage to brick near sidewalks is deterioration caused by salt exposure that draws moisture and can cause spalling or flaking. This article explains how splashback occurs and what you can do to reduce damage before inspecting or replacing bricks. To approach the job, start by looking for efflorescence, cracks, or loose units near

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black painted brick wall with uneven sheen in lighting

Breathable brick sealers in wet climates: picking products that don’t trap moisture

Introduction Breathable brick sealers allow moisture to pass through while protecting the surface. They help balance protection with drying, which is crucial in damp environments. This article covers how to pick products that won’t trap moisture and how to apply them safely. Two practical concepts to know are vapor-permeable sealers versus film-forming ones. A simple

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Hand with orange glove laying a brick on mortar

Brick chimney caps and spark arrestors: sizing, attachment, and draft considerations

Introduction Brick chimney caps and spark arrestors are protective covers on top of a masonry chimney that help contain embers, reduce water intrusion, and influence draft, sizing, and attachment should fit the chimney opening and flue arrangement. Choose from material options that resist heat and weather, and plan for proper alignment and secure attachment to

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Worker painting a wall with roller wearing yellow helmet

Brick staining vs painting: durability, appearance, and moisture risks

Introduction Brick staining and painting are two approaches to changing brick color and protection, with staining penetrating the surface and painting applying an opaque coating. Staining preserves the brick texture and natural variation, while painting hides texture and creates a solid color finish. Both options are DIY-friendly in concept, but they require different surface prep

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Gloved hand applying mortar on brick wall with trowel

Repointing brick mortar: matching hardness and color without damaging the units

Introduction Repointing brick mortar is the process of renewing the mortar between bricks to restore structure, weatherproofing, and appearance. It involves removing deteriorated mortar and packing in new mortar that bonds to the bricks. This is a hands-on repair that requires choosing the right mix and applying it carefully to avoid damaging the units. To

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Wooden boathouse on stilts over calm water at dusk

Choosing brick joint profiles: concave, flush, struck—how each sheds water

Introduction Brick joint profiles are the shapes formed where bricks meet mortar, influencing water shedding from a wall. Understand how each profile behaves in wet conditions to make an informed choice based on your climate and maintenance routine. Concave joints: Shed water along the mortar surface. Flush joints: Sit flat, providing a smooth finish but

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Corner of a stucco exterior wall with glass block windows

Using efflorescence on stucco as a leak map: how to trace water paths inside the wall

Introduction Efflorescence on stucco is mineral salt deposits left behind when moisture moves through the wall, and it can indicate where water is traveling inside the structure. These deposits can hint at the paths moisture takes through the cavity. Use the visible salt deposits as a map to trace moisture paths and observe patterns around

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