Tips for Contracting a Stone Mason in Bishop Arts District, TX

If you’re planning to carry out a stone project, you will need to engage a capable stone mason for the very best results. Here are several good pointers to take into consideration when working with a stone mason. Those who live from Preston Hollow to Hillside are aware that Omega Masonry Inc. is the company to go to for everything from Brick Masonry to Chimney Repair. What a lot of people don’t know that Omega Masonry it’s also your best choice if you are searching for a reliable stone mason in Bishop Arts District, Texas. As you may have already found out not all stone mason contractors are created equal for this reason we want to highlight what to look for when contracting a stone mason contractor in the Bishop Arts District area.

Research – Look for the many stone masons in your town before hiring one for the position. Have a look at their expertise and experience with dealing with stone projects throughout their career.
Price Estimates – Before hiring a stone mason, you should compare different rates. Here, you should request written estimates from all the stone masons in the community. Compare each quote to discover the correct one that suits your budget while offering the best stone masonry services.
Portfolio – You must make sure that which ever stone mason you opt to work with has the skill to deal with the type of stone project you wish to do. So, ask for a few samples of work done before in addition to their portfolio to learn their exact skill level.
Licensing – As with any other service agency, stone masons need to be licensed to provide their services. Examine the local licensing board to determine whether their license applies and whether or not they are qualified to offer the services you need.

The Stone Mason Craft is Still Alive and Well in Bishop Arts District, TX

The love, enthusiasm and commitment stonemasons have for their skill is really what keeps this antique type of building and sculpting going. I recall a colleague who emigrated from Germany to the UK. Whenever he desired to build anything on his property he employed stonemasons from Germany since he loved stone and wanted the task done by stone crafters whom he knew were masters at their profession.

To masons, the stonemason craft is not only building a stone structure, it is science and a kind of living art which requires communication between rock and man. Stonework dates back to the 5,000-year-old dry-stack walls of Great Britain along with the remarkable pyramids of Egypt. Today the craft has regained popularity due to the greater availability of stones and new technologies that make cutting and fitting them easier. Unfortunately, it is also the same technologies as well as modern building codes which are threatening to finish the actual workmanship of stone masonry that requires cutting by hand and placing every single stone in ways that results in a structure that is certainly extremely stable without having to use mortar.

We are hopeful that so long as you will find people that want to beautify their environments with this particular ancient art you will see stone masons to keep supplying the demand for this beautiful craft. As you may have noticed that hiring a stone mason in Bishop Arts District, Texas, or anywhere else requires a little bit of research. If you’re a home or business owner searching chimney repair in Bishop Arts District, Texas, we urge you to visit our blog

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The Basics of Cast Stone Repair

Cast stone is a concrete masonry application that simulates natural-cut stones and has quite a number of architectural uses. Cast stone repair is necessary because these stones are mostly found on building exteriors and outdoor gardens, usually as trims and ornaments. It is made from white cement, natural sands, and crushed stones, and can be colored using mineral pigments.

The beauty of cast stones is undeniable however they will only look great if they are well-maintained. Repair and maintenance are necessary to preserve the look the concrete’s physical appearance with cleaning and patching the two most common methods used to restore the natural beauty of these stones.

Cast Stone Common Issues

Some of the most common problems that are associated with cast stones will appear over time. While cast stones are natural and cost-effective, they are very susceptible to the elements as they are mostly placed outdoors. These problems include:

Soiling

Excessive soiling of cast stones is a result of soot, pollution, and dust. Cast stones are made of absorptive materials and have a rough texture. This is the reason why particles easily settle onto its surface. When this happens, cast stone cleaning becomes mandatory.

Crazing

Crazing pertains to the hairline patterns found on stones. It is also referred to as mapping because they look like borders on a map, with these patterns extending several millimeters in length. Although not really severe, they’re cosmetic flaws that you can do without. They also affect the overall look of the stone.

Cracking

Aside from crazing, actual cracking on the stones could appear. Cracking is a major concern because it affects both the appearance and structural capacity of the stone. Here is where a major cast stone repair is needed, which mostly consists of the processes called patching. Patching should be done with utmost care, as the best color match is needed to restore not just the stability of the structure but also the natural aesthetics of the stone.

Corrosion

Corrosion is also a major problem with cast stones because of the reinforced steel embedded found inside them. These steel can corrode over time and lead to the cracking on the surface. When this happens, cracking also occurs. The stability of the cast stone is also compromised.

Cast Stone Repair and Maintenance

Professional cast stone repair and maintenance starts with cleaning. Soiled cast stones are successfully treated with conventional detergents, water rinses, and chemical cleaners. They are also aggressive chemical cleaners available but these should be used with utmost care because they can dissolve the binders in the material. Patching, on the other hand, is a process that requires broad knowledge and meticulous effort. When not performed correctly, the material used for patching may produce fragile edges and increased water penetration.

Other popular cast stone repair methods include re-etching, chemical injection, and supplemental anchor installation. The right solution would depend on the problem exhibited by the stone structure. Talk to an expert to know the best way to repair and maintain cast stones and other masonry applications in your home.