Can it be dangerous to drill into brick?

• <div><p>Drilling into brick doesn’t have to be a dangerous project if you prep and approach it with the right tools and techniques, but it does come with risks if it’s not done correctly. It can lead to significant issues, such as damaging the brick or affecting the wall’s structural integrity. Applying too much force can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cracked-brick-always-foundation-issue.htm">crack or chip the brick</a>, while incorrect placement might compromise its load-bearing strength. </p></div>

Get matched with top masons in Van Buren, ME

Q: How do you crack a rock with water?

• <div><p>It is possible, albeit a lot slower, to break up a rock using water. You would do this by freezing and thawing the water. You could create some initial holes or cracks in the rock, then pour water into the cracks or holes and allow them to freeze (so it's best to do this in winter or in colder climates). Since water expands when it freezes, this puts pressure on the inside of the rock and causes it to crack. You could continue to pour more water in and let it freeze to continue to break up the rock.</p></div>

Q: Should I use mortar or concrete for a chimney crown?

• <div><p>You should use cement for a chimney crown. The purpose of the chimney crown is to protect the mortar below from water damage and the effects of weather. For this reason, chimney crowns should only be made using cement. When repairing a crown, use caulks and sealants designed for cement repair rather than mortar repair.</p></div>

Q: Does a brick fence add value to a home?

• <div><p>Yes, brick walls often add value to a home. For starters, many people love the look of brick walls, so they can enhance your home's aesthetic appeal and add warmth to your property, especially when it aligns with the rest of your neighborhood's look. They also provide privacy and security, which can further increase the resale value of your home.</p></div>

Q: Can it be dangerous to drill into brick?

• <div><p>Drilling into brick doesn&rsquo;t have to be a dangerous project if you prep and approach it with the right tools and techniques, but it does come with risks if it&rsquo;s not done correctly. It can lead to significant issues, such as damaging the brick or affecting the wall&rsquo;s structural integrity. Applying too much force can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cracked-brick-always-foundation-issue.htm">crack or chip the brick</a>, while incorrect placement might compromise its load-bearing strength. </p></div>

Q: Are brick mailboxes allowed everywhere?

• <div><p>Certain towns and homeowner associations (HOAs) ban brick mailboxes because of the risk of obstruction. They are sometimes only permitted in cases where four or more homes share a mailbox. Homeowners may need to obtain special permits in some locations. One of the top <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/masonry-contractor-hiring-tips.htm">masonry contractor hiring tips</a> is to ask a local pro if they can show you examples of recent work that meets local code regulations.</p></div>

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your masonry work project in Van Buren, ME?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Masonry Work pros in Van Buren, ME

*The Angi rating for Masonry Work companies in Van Buren, ME is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Masonry Work needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Masonry Work companies in Van Buren, ME is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Masonry Work needs.

Last update on December 11, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
I would definitely recommend Frost painting. I would definitely use them again. I had a great experience. They did a wonderful job on my home.
Frost Painting
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2025
Noah exceeded my expectations at a competitive price . Clear communication, and fast! His estimate was spot on and it was clean and professional work. Noah did a 60amp sub panel install for my new garage, and also wired in four new outlets in my basement as I only had one down there. Thanks...
Parker Electric LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2023
They arrived in a timely manner and made sure everything was running smoothly before they left.
HVAC Solutions 207, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2022
I found Jay to be pleasant and easy to work with. He is very conscientious about his quality of work.
Barrett Pressure Washing
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2017
Hiring a painting contractor was a daunting task; a house is a huge statement and you want to get it right. Michael assured me that he wanted to work with me and "the house would be beautiful". There were numerous decisions to made regarding the different woods, painting or staining? colors and...
Clean Cut Painting Company NY
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2014
Job done, done right. Can't find the exact dates for these events. Two different years. I have them scheduled to remove 4 large roadside trees and 3 trees in a field late fall 2014 or over the winter 2014/2105.
David W. MacDonald Inc. dba Whitney Tree Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2013
I received several estimates on the work and JD Masonry gave me the fairest price as well as some honest suggestions. The crews were all very nice and polite. I had brick steps totally removed and rebuilt with granite treads and stone fronts. I made the landing deeper and wider and they worked...
JD Masonry LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2009
They usually call ahead to let you know when they will be coming. They show on the date they are supposed to. We've used them for twenty years. I am satisfied with their service.
Orkin Pest Control - North Olmsted
Request a quote

Find Masons in Van Buren

Affordable Excavating

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

Affordable Excavating

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

14 years of experience

Welcome to Affordable Excavating! We take pride in the quality of work and customer satisfaction that we give each and every customer! We are known to pay exquisite attention to detail while making customer satisfaction our top priority. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you!

Bricks and Stones Masonry

No reviews yet

Bricks and Stones Masonry

No reviews yet

10 years of experience

Family owned and operated. Offering masonry and tiling services from your basement to your chimney cap. Our goal is to make your masonry or tiling project, not only functional, but beautiful!

Ripa Stoneworks LLC

No reviews yet

Ripa Stoneworks LLC

No reviews yet

17 years of experience

Ripa Stoneworks LLC provides residential and light commercial masonry services to Northern New England. We offer free estimates and will help in the design of the featured work.

MID-COAST MASONRY

2.00(

)

MID-COAST MASONRY

2.00(

)

Customers say: Super punctual

20 years of experience

We have a small crew of 3. With the owner on almost every job.

C & H Roofing & Construction

No reviews yet

C & H Roofing & Construction

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

Our mission at C & H Roofing & Construction is to create a long term relationship with our customers and to provide a high quality roofing system that will last for years.

Happy Valley Chimney n Masonry

No reviews yet

Happy Valley Chimney n Masonry

No reviews yet

19 years of experience

All Chimney and Masonry repairs in NH seacoast and southern Maine area. I guarantee all my work I am professional and provide immediate estimates.

Presby Masonry & Roofing

No reviews yet

Presby Masonry & Roofing

No reviews yet

48 years of experience

All phases of Masonry, Roofing, Siding, Chimney Restoration, Brick, Block and Stone. Foundation work, Retaining walls, Patios, Decks,Walkways. Custom Metal Fabrication. Chimney Lining, Cleaning and repair.Custom Flashing. We install only BEST FLEX chimney liners, Caps,and Cleanout Doors.Metal, Rubber, Asphalt Shingle roofing.All types of Flashing and Leak Repairs.Gutter Instalation and cleaning.Roof Cleaning, shoveling and painting.Dock Installation and Removal.Window Installation.

FINANCING AVAILABLE.

maine masonry craft

No reviews yet

maine masonry craft

No reviews yet

Our services provide free consultation on design, heat loads all the way through construction.

Showing 1-10 of 16

Masonry questions, answered by experts

It is possible, albeit a lot slower, to break up a rock using water. You would do this by freezing and thawing the water. You could create some initial holes or cracks in the rock, then pour water into the cracks or holes and allow them to freeze (so it's best to do this in winter or in colder climates). Since water expands when it freezes, this puts pressure on the inside of the rock and causes it to crack. You could continue to pour more water in and let it freeze to continue to break up the rock.

You should use cement for a chimney crown. The purpose of the chimney crown is to protect the mortar below from water damage and the effects of weather. For this reason, chimney crowns should only be made using cement. When repairing a crown, use caulks and sealants designed for cement repair rather than mortar repair.

Yes, brick walls often add value to a home. For starters, many people love the look of brick walls, so they can enhance your home's aesthetic appeal and add warmth to your property, especially when it aligns with the rest of your neighborhood's look. They also provide privacy and security, which can further increase the resale value of your home.

Drilling into brick doesn’t have to be a dangerous project if you prep and approach it with the right tools and techniques, but it does come with risks if it’s not done correctly. It can lead to significant issues, such as damaging the brick or affecting the wall’s structural integrity. Applying too much force can crack or chip the brick, while incorrect placement might compromise its load-bearing strength.

Certain towns and homeowner associations (HOAs) ban brick mailboxes because of the risk of obstruction. They are sometimes only permitted in cases where four or more homes share a mailbox. Homeowners may need to obtain special permits in some locations. One of the top masonry contractor hiring tips is to ask a local pro if they can show you examples of recent work that meets local code regulations.

The Van Buren, ME homeowners’ guide to masonry services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Mitchell Grant
•
Oct 28, 2025Oct 28, 2025
How Much Does Door or Window Lintel Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]
Door or window lintel replacement costs $400 on average, but there are ways you can save. On the other hand, complicated work will increase costs considerably.
Kat Brancato
•
Nov 21, 2025Nov 21, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Brick Front Steps? [2026 Data]
The cost to replace brick front steps depends on the type of brick, square footage, pattern, and more. Learn how much you may spend on this project.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Dec 2, 2025Dec 2, 2025
How Much Does Repointing Brick Cost? [2025 Data]
Need to repoint brick in your home to make your home look fresh and new? Use this guide to repointing brick cost to price out your project before starting.
Catherine Hiles
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Bowing Foundation Wall? 6 Reasons Why the Walls Are Caving In
A bowing foundation wall can quickly become a major structural problem for your home. Learn why your wall is bowing and what you can do to fix it.
Nick P. Cellucci
•
Nov 18, 2025Nov 18, 2025
How to Repair a Brick Wall Yourself: Repointing, Replacing Bricks, Aftercare, and More
When you notice small cracks or damaged sections of a brick wall, they need your attention. Use this guide to handle minor brick wall repairs.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Aug 12, 2024Aug 12, 2024
What Is Bluestone and Why Is It Used in Landscaping?
What is bluestone made from? Learn why people prefer bluestone for patios, stairs, fireplaces, and other projects as you discover the pros and cons of this popular natural stone.

What do you need done? We’ll find top pros.

🌱 "Mow a small front yard"
🛠 "Fix a leaking pipe under the sink"
🏠 "Repair shingles on an asphalt roof"

Get matched with top masons in Van Buren, ME

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your masonry work project in Van Buren, ME?

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Brick, Stone or Block Wall Repair

Brick and Stone Flatwork Repair

Verified Reviews for Masonry Work pros in Van Buren, ME

Find Masons in Van Buren

Affordable Excavating

Affordable Excavating

Bricks and Stones Masonry

Bricks and Stones Masonry

Ripa Stoneworks LLC

Ripa Stoneworks LLC

MID-COAST MASONRY

MID-COAST MASONRY

C & H Roofing & Construction

C & H Roofing & Construction

Happy Valley Chimney n Masonry

Happy Valley Chimney n Masonry

Presby Masonry & Roofing

Presby Masonry & Roofing

MICHONSKI BROTHERS MASONRY

MICHONSKI BROTHERS MASONRY

NORTHEAST MODULAR HOMES

NORTHEAST MODULAR HOMES

maine masonry craft

maine masonry craft

The Van Buren, ME homeowners’ guide to masonry services

How Much Does Door or Window Lintel Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Brick Front Steps? [2026 Data]

How Much Does Repointing Brick Cost? [2025 Data]

Bowing Foundation Wall? 6 Reasons Why the Walls Are Caving In

How to Repair a Brick Wall Yourself: Repointing, Replacing Bricks, Aftercare, and More

What Is Bluestone and Why Is It Used in Landscaping?

Get our Angi-powered app

Get matched with top masons in Van Buren, ME

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your masonry work project in Van Buren, ME?

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Brick, Stone or Block Wall Repair

Brick and Stone Flatwork Repair

Verified Reviews for Masonry Work pros in Van Buren, ME

Find Masons in Van Buren

Affordable Excavating

Affordable Excavating

Bricks and Stones Masonry

Bricks and Stones Masonry

Ripa Stoneworks LLC

Ripa Stoneworks LLC

MID-COAST MASONRY

MID-COAST MASONRY

C & H Roofing & Construction

C & H Roofing & Construction

Happy Valley Chimney n Masonry

Happy Valley Chimney n Masonry

Presby Masonry & Roofing

Presby Masonry & Roofing

MICHONSKI BROTHERS MASONRY

MICHONSKI BROTHERS MASONRY

NORTHEAST MODULAR HOMES

NORTHEAST MODULAR HOMES

maine masonry craft

maine masonry craft

The Van Buren, ME homeowners’ guide to masonry services

How Much Does Door or Window Lintel Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Brick Front Steps? [2026 Data]

How Much Does Repointing Brick Cost? [2025 Data]

Bowing Foundation Wall? 6 Reasons Why the Walls Are Caving In

How to Repair a Brick Wall Yourself: Repointing, Replacing Bricks, Aftercare, and More

What Is Bluestone and Why Is It Used in Landscaping?

Find Masonry work Pros in other cities near youNot finding what you are looking for in Van Buren? Check surrounding areas for Masons.

Which Masonry work task are you tackling?Find Van Buren Masonry services on Angi who specialize in any of these tasks

Find Pros for other jobs in Van BurenIf your Masonry services job is complete, use Angi to find quality Pros in Van Buren for any number of jobs.