Are masonry fireboxes better than prefabricated ones?

• <div><p>Handbuilt masonry fireplaces are likely what comes to mind when we think about curling up by the fire at the end of the day. But bricks in the firebox and chimney tend to be heavy, which is not ideal for homes with weak or damaged foundations.</p><p>Prefabricated fireboxes come with a full flue and chimney system, significantly reducing the price and installation time. However, if you need to replace the panels down the line, you are locked into the same model or something very similar.</p></div>

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Q: Is it worth sealing brickwork?

• <div><p>Most of the time, you don&rsquo;t need to seal brickwork and can save that money for another area of home improvement. But if your brick is cracking or you live in an area with a lot of excess moisture (either in terms of rain or freezes), sealing can extend the lifetime of your home. But, make sure you use a breathable sealant, like siloxane, to allow the moisture to evaporate on its own.</p></div>

Q: Are cracks in brick normal?

• <div><p>Some cracking in bricks is normal, such as when a foundation settles. Keep a watchful eye though, and alarm bells should start ringing if new cracks appear or existing cracks lengthen or widen. Temperature changes, moisture, and structural loading can all contribute to cracks in bricks either starting or getting worse. </p></div>

Q: How do you get soot off chimney bricks?

• <div><p>Depending on the amount of soot present, you can vacuum some of it using a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Then, remove the leftovers with a mild cleaner, such as dish soap or vinegar mixed with water. Before applying a cleaning solution, saturate the bricks with clean water to prevent the cleaner from penetrating beyond the surface and causing structural damage to the bricks.</p></div>

Q: Can I reuse a brick after cutting it by hand?

• <div><p>Yes, as long as the cut is clean and the brick remains structurally sound, you can reuse it. Reusing brick is especially common for landscaping, edging, and small masonry repairs. Just make sure to file down any sharp edges before handling or installing it.</p></div>

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Full Service Paving Corporation

4.45(

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•Approved Pro

Full Service Paving Corporation

4.45(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

18 local quotes requested

6 years of experience

At Full Service Paving Corporation, we pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all of our projects no matter how big or small. We are experts in our trade and will always keep you educated on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business. No money down Contract!

"I was very satisfied with their professionalism and how quickly they completed the project. I had my old, paved driveway removed, dug out, widened and re-paved. The old driveway was sinking in spots and rocks were starting to come through. They came out within a few days of me contacting them and they did the work in 2 days. The driveway looks great 4 months after it was done. So many people around me have been stopping by to say they admire the work and ask who did it. I would highly recommend Full-Service Paving to anyone who asks."

Crystal C on March 2025

"I was very satisfied with their professionalism and how quickly they completed the project. I had my old, paved driveway removed, dug out, widened and re-paved. The old driveway was sinking in spots and rocks were starting to come through. They came out within a few days of me contacting them and they did the work in 2 days. The driveway looks great 4 months after it was done. So many people around me have been stopping by to say they admire the work and ask who did it. I would highly recommend Full-Service Paving to anyone who asks."

Crystal C on March 2025

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Landscape Soil, Sand, Mulch and Rock Delivery

Gravel or Loose Fill Paving Install, Spread or Scrape

Asphalt Paving Installation

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Full Service Paving Corporation

Full Service Paving Corporation

Austin's Home Improvement

Austin's Home Improvement

Empire Utility & Excavation

Empire Utility & Excavation

J Reid Farms

J Reid Farms

Piedmont Equipment Inc

Piedmont Equipment Inc

Off Campus, Inc.

Off Campus, Inc.

Clarks Lawn and Land Maintenance

Clarks Lawn and Land Maintenance

Down to earth lawn care

Down to earth lawn care

Eastman's Mortar Works

Eastman's Mortar Works

Sarna Construction

Sarna Construction

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