Masonry Restoration in Arizona

We start with a hands-on inspection — sounding bricks for hollows, probing mortar with a pick to test hardness, photographing crack patterns to distinguish settlement from thermal movement. Failed mortar is cut out to a depth of at least 2× joint width (typically 5/8"–3/4") with a tuck-point grinder, joints are flushed clean, and new mortar is matched to the original in compressive strength, color, and texture. Replacement bricks are sourced from reclaimed yards when possible; visible elevations get the best matches. Sealers are applied only after mortar fully cures (28 days minimum) and only breathable formulations so trapped moisture can escape.

Five patterns dominate. Mortar deterioration along south and west elevations from UV and thermal cycling. Step cracking through brick courses from foundation settlement on expansive soils. Brick spalling from moisture entering cracked joints. Efflorescence from sulfate-rich groundwater wicking through CMU site walls. And on 1920s–1960s downtown Phoenix and Mesa brick, hard Portland-cement patches done in the 80s–90s now causing the softer original brick to spall around the patches. Each pattern needs a different repair — we don't apply a universal fix.

Mortar specified per ASTM C270 — Type N for most residential, Type S for structural and below-grade, Type O or K for historic lime-mortar buildings. Replacement units matched per ASTM C216 (brick) and ASTM C90 (CMU). Helical wall ties to ICC-ES report specs for crack stabilization. Sealers are siloxane- or silane-based breathable formulations — never film-forming acrylics that trap moisture. All work permitted where required and warrantied under ROC #349454.