Get matched with top masons in Clayton, OK

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.

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.

When painting brick, each application method has pros and cons. Spraying is much faster but may not penetrate the porous surface of the bricks. Rolling is effective for getting paint into the bricks but doesn't work as well on the mortar. Brushing is very time-consuming and also won't penetrate beyond the surface. For the best results, a combination of spraying and rolling is often recommended. If you use a roller, choose a thick option (at least a half-inch) and ensure the paint gets into all the crevices for even coverage.

Granite is the strongest commercially available stone houses are built from. It’s also more commonly available, which means transport costs aren’t as high because a granite quarry isn’t too far from a build site. Limestone and sandstone are popular materials as well, but they aren’t as strong or weather-resistant as granite.

Initially, brick staining is not cheaper than painting. However, while it has a higher up-front cost, it may be more cost-effective in the long run. Brick stain can last for 20 years or longer, compared to paint, which usually starts to peel away in three to five years.