How to Stop My Chimney From Leaking
“This chimney is ruining my life”
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Fireplace Makeover in Wayland
I love getting the chance to do a fireplace makeover with thin stone veneer. Maybe it’s partly from all the makeover shows my wife watches, but this is my own version of a makeover show. This home in Wayland, MA was being remodeled, and the fireplace was ready for a major upgrade. A plain fireplace…
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Behind an Old Chimney in Lancaster
If You Think Your Chimney Needs Repair, It Probably Does If you think your chimney is in need of repair, it probably is — but in many cases, what looks like a simple repair is actually a structural problem that requires a full chimney rebuild. As the weather starts to turn in Massachusetts, it’s a…
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What is Behind Your Stone Veneer?
There is a time bomb waiting to be discovered behind many thin stone veneer and stucco wall systems unknown to the property owners. The danger is moisture, which leads to rotting plywood, structural decay, and mold. I know that may sound sensationalistic, but it is critical to educate both the public and other masonry contractors….
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Granite Rumford Fireplace
Custom Granite Rumford Fireplace Design & Construction Many Massachusetts home building projects start as an idea long before any building permits are applied for. Some of these projects are more of a feeling or an overall look people want their house to have once its completed. Some people scour magazines, Pinterest, Houzz and all of…
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Technique to Repair Rubble Foundation – Part 2
In our last post, we discussed why using lime-based mortar is the only correct way to repair an antique foundation. In this post, we’ll look at the specific techniques we use to stabilize rubble stone walls, seal out pests, and give the basement a clean, finished appearance. The Challenge: Deep Crevices in Rubble Stone Foundations…
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Repairing a Stone Foundation – Part 1
Do you have an old stone foundation that needs repair? We can help, but first, a bit of important information. A couple hundred years ago, we didn’t have poured concrete foundations, flue liners, or Diet Pepsi 🙂 A lot of people in Massachusetts have basements built with rubble stone and mortar. Many of them leak…
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Bluestone Steps – Smart Choice for Massachusetts
When discussing new brick steps, a fireplace hearth, or a custom mantle, many homeowners ask me: “What exactly is Bluestone?” It is a dense, durable sandstone primarily quarried in the Northeast, and it’s one of the best materials we have for New England masonry projects. Understanding Bluestone Finishes: Thermal vs. Rocked Face In the photos…
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The Short Life of a Poorly Built Chimney
Building a chimney that lasts is determined by a few key decisions made during the construction process. It is unfortunate to see how much damage an inexperienced chimney builder can cause by skipping the fundamentals of quality masonry chimney and fireplace construction. In Massachusetts, our winter weather is brutal on masonry. Residents need a chimney…
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Improving a Fireplace with Thin Stone
Throughout Massachusetts, there is certainly no shortage of fireplaces. Many conventional designs were built on a budget or simply haven’t aged well. If you are considering a fireplace revamp, thin stone veneer offers an incredible transformation, but the success of the project depends entirely on the structural approach. Factors to Consider in a Fireplace Redesign…
