Masonry construction is one of the tasks homeowners assume will continue even as temperatures drop. The truth, however, is that there are serious construction challenges with masonry work in winter and most experts advise avoiding it altogether in colder months.
At Lesiak Masonry, we pride ourselves on providing quality, durable solutions, and winter conditions simply don't allow that.
However, with winter fast approaching, planning and scheduling the important maintenance and repair projects before the cold arrives is important.
You may not understand why cold weather can be so problematic unless you have erected masonry structures during the winter season. Sand and cement set the binding agents of bricks, sandstones, or other boolean units, but they require warmth to set properly. Mortar, the material that binds bricks and stones together, needs a high-temperature range to cure.
When temperatures drop to the temperatures below zero level, the moisture content within the mortar may tend to freeze and expand thereby resulting in either a crack or a weak bond between the materials.
The permanence of masonry works is also jeopardized considering that the bricks and stones are prone to cold temperatures. Freezing temperatures can make them brittle, which increases the risk of cracking during installation. Even if the job is completed, the work may not stand the test of time since the cold can weaken the entire system.
This is why it is not the best idea to go ahead with the masonry work in the winter months. It undermines the project and may lead to expensive repairs in the future.
Masonry work in winter comes with its own set of challenges. First, there is the challenge of mortar not curing in the cold. Without the right conditions, the curing process slows down, making it harder for the mortar to bond the materials. This may contribute to cracks and weakness in the structure.
Safety is another important consideration. Working on icy surfaces poses significant risks for workers, and cold stress is a real concern. Harsh winter conditions can make it difficult for even the most experienced masons to perform their jobs efficiently and safely. Additionally, attempting to manage materials in cold, damp conditions can slow down progress, meaning a project that would take a few days in the fall could stretch out for weeks if done in winter.
For these reasons, Lesiak Masonry avoids taking on projects during the winter months. The risks simply outweigh the benefits, and we strive to ensure that every task undertaken is of the highest possible quality and standard in terms of durability.
While winter may not be the right season for commencing masonry works, it provides the best opportunity for clients to organize and book for their projects before the cold weather sets in. People will have a window to complete any unyielding repairs or maintenance works around the house that need to be done to ensure that the house will be strong and well protected during the cold months.
For instance, if your chimney shows signs of wear and tear, now is the time to act. Cracks or loose bricks in a chimney can become a serious safety hazard once temperatures drop, especially if you’re planning to use your fireplace to stay warm. The weather during winter makes Chimney repairs very complicated and risky. If you make an appointment for a repair at this point, your chimney will be safe, efficient, and ready for winter.
In addition to chimney repairs, there are other home maintenance tasks around the house, such as dealing with brick wall repairs or repairing stone pathways, which should be done before winter arrives. While small cracks or damage may not seem urgent, these issues can quickly become bigger problems in cold weather. Cracks can seep water and when the temperatures drop, the water will turn into ice and expand leading to further damage. Doing these repairs now will prevent you from incurring huge losses and headaches in the long run.
Some projects simply need to wait until warmer weather returns. Large-scale masonry jobs, like building new walls, patios, or walkways, are best postponed until spring. Such projects are completed best with constant mild temperatures that set and enable the bonding of the materials. Trying to do these activities in cold seasons will lead to cracking of the masonry, loose mortar, and even complete structure collapse.
If you are planning any major work for your home, now is an appropriate time to start thinking about it. Contact us today to discuss your goals, get a detailed estimate, and schedule the work for early spring. By planning in advance, you’ll ensure that your project is one of the first on our schedule once the weather allows, avoiding long wait times during the busy season.
At Lesiak Masonry, we are committed to providing quality designs that are made to last over the years. Here’s why you should consider us for your pre-winter masonry needs:
Notice any issues with your chimney or other masonry features? Don’t put them off. Winter will be here before you know it, and waiting could lead to more serious problems.
Our team is ready to help you tackle those last-minute masonry tasks, or prepare your chimney for winter. Contact us today to schedule your repairs before the cold weather sets in. We’re here to provide expert advice and craftsmanship that you can count on.
Piotr Lesiak