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Avatar for Shamrock Maintenance Corp.
Shamrock Maintenance Corp.
4.5(
15
)
Brick or Stone - Tuck-pointingBrick, Stone or Block Wall - Repair

Serving Central Lake, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I was impressed with Chuck from Shamrock Chimney. He was realistic in his discussion and went thru various options from converting to a gas fireplace to wood inserts. He discussed the issues with the existing field stone face and converting to a two way fireplace. He certainly made me comfortable to consider Shamrock should the project move forward."
Chimney Repair
Chimney Repair
Chimney Repair
Chimney Repair
Chimney Repair

+31

Response time1 day
Response rate100%
81 neighbors recently requested a quote
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Masonry questions, answered by experts

Cobblestone can be made from many different types of stones but the most common ones, by far, are granite, basalt, limestone, and sandstone.  If you are laying a brick paver patio or other such project, the medium is different. It’s rare, but cobblestone can also be made from marble, slate, jasper, and other types of rock. Technically, you can make cobblestone from almost any type of rock, but if it is weather-resistant and stands the test of time is another question entirely.

The cost of masonry work varies widely depending on the type of masonry along with common cost factors like size, complexity, location, and season. Most exterior masonry work done in freezing temperatures tends to cost more because of the preparation and protection involved to keep the masonry from freezing before the mortar cures properly. The average price ranges per project or square foot for different types of masonry include:

  • Brick wall (fence, garden wall, etc.): $10–$45 per square foot

  • Natural stone wall: $40–$110 per square foot

  • Manufactured stone veneer: $20–$40 per square foot

  • Brick home exterior: $10–$30 per square foot

  • Brick siding: $3–$10 per square foot

  • Stone siding: $35–$50 per square foot

  • Brick step replacement: $20–$30 per square foot

  • Brick wall repair: $20–$40 per square foot

  • Chimney repairs: $160–$750 per project

  • Tuckpointing: $5–$25 per square foot

Yes, you can do German schmear on stone. You can account for the more textured and rough surface of stone by using a large paintbrush instead of a putty knife. A brush allows you to drag mortar across the stone to get it into all the cracks and crevices. However, a brush will cover more of the surface, so you may need a wet sponge to scrub excess mortar and expose more of your stone.

For most brick cleaning jobs, including fireplace bricks, use a masonry sponge and a gentle cleaner. A simple solution of equal parts water and vinegar, or a few drops of dish soap in a bowl of water, can effectively remove grime. For tougher stains, you can use a dedicated masonry or fireplace cleaner. It is crucial to wet the bricks thoroughly with water before applying any cleaning solution to prevent the brick from absorbing it, and to rinse the surface completely afterward. Harsher cleaners containing bleach or ammonia should only be used as a last resort, and they should never be mixed together.

Cobblestone fell out of favor with the advent of motor vehicles. Asphalt and concrete are both much smoother surfaces allowing for a smoother ride. Asphalt is also much cheaper, especially for driveways. However, we didn’t stop using cobblestone altogether, and you can still see it as a decorative option in both homes, in parks, and in pedestrianized areas of cities.

The Central Lake, MI homeowners’ guide to masonry services

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