Get matched with top masons in Winterville, NC

A mason lays brick or stone together, sometimes with mortar in between the bricks and stones, and sometimes without mortar, also called a dry-stack or surface bonding. Examples of work masons do include:

• Brick, stone, or cement block houses and buildings

• Freestanding stone or brick walls

• Chimneys with wood-burning fireplaces

• Cement block basement or crawl space walls

On average, a quality exterior brick stain can last between 10 and 20 years, and sometimes even longer. While it will look its best for a minimum of three to five years, its total lifespan depends on several factors. These include the quality and type of stain used, the condition of the brick, and the thoroughness of the surface preparation, such as proper cleaning. Following the manufacturer's application instructions and applying a sealant as a final step is also crucial. The stain's longevity can be affected by your location, climate, and the brick's exposure to harsh weather, high traffic, and other elements. Over time, the stain may begin to fade or look dingy due to weathering, erosion, dirt, and debris. Compared to paint, brick stain generally has a longer lifespan.

While painting can certainly change the look of a chimney, you should think twice about giving your brick chimney the old landlord special.

Painting brick is porous, meaning it’s full of tiny holes that can soak up moisture. Those holes also allow it to dry, though. So, when you paint it, you trap any moisture inside, providing an opportunity for mold, mildew, and water damage.

Paint also shows wear faster than naked brick. This means that once you paint a brick surface, you’ll have to keep painting it to maintain a clean look. A paint job is also harder to undo on brick because of its porous nature. Once you paint it, it’s hard to go back without some serious power washing—another added cost.

In most cases, painting your brick house is a fine idea that can open up new aesthetic possibilities. However, the paint can slightly shorten the life span of brick, especially if moisture gets trapped underneath the paint layer. Once you paint, you’ll have to keep up with maintenance to avoid flaking and blisters.