Several Important Benefits of Brick Repointing

Maintaining the integrity and the physical appearance of a building’s framework is highly essential. If water is entered and penetrated in your brickwork; it can cause significant damage, deterioration and will result in the building structure losing value.

Though your home’s brickwork is a very visible part of your property, you might still fail to notice that it’s time to have your brickwork re-pointed. Brick repointing is one of the most effective ways of restoring the physical appearance and the condition of the building structure. Moreover, it plays an essential part in the overall building maintenance. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the major advantages of brick pointing.

1. It Helps Protect The Surface Area

Did you know that as per the Homebuilding & Renovating reports; mortar alone can compromise about 15% of the brickwork’s surface area. Thus, the standard of the mortar can have a significant impact on the overall quality of the wall.

Repointing can be a crucial procedure for helping to keep the quality intact – because the mortar age more quickly than the bricks. This is a sign of the mortar’s softness that protects the bricks from the worst effects of erosion and weathering.

2. Enhance Aesthetic Appeal

Your brickwork definitely needs to good look. However, sloppily applied brickwork can stain the look of your walls even if the actual bricks are in isolation, visibly immaculate. The kind of inept application can too easily happen if, for instance, the mortar is spread across the bricks or too much mortar is used. However, repointing done well is capable of giving your elevation allure in both its shadow and texture.

3. Prevent Leaks And Damp

There’s an obvious inconvenience to having to keep leaving out buckets to catch water that drips from a leaky ceiling or seeing damp patches forming on a wall. However, repointing can assist you in preventing both of those problems, as mortar issues could be to blame for them.

If leaks and damp are constant problems in your residence, you might think of other possible causes; however, we would urge you not to overlook the extent to which repointing might be able to help.

4. Preserving the Structure’s Integrity

Residents of Melbourne are aware of how harsh the local weather can be. Hence, it can wreak havoc on the standard of your home’s existing pointing. If that does occur, then there may, over time, be the necessity of repointing to protect the brickwork’s structural integrity

5. Enhance Shelf Life

If you do deem that your brickwork requires repointing, you can rest assured that, after this repointing has taken place, the house probably won’t need it again for decades. In fact, a properly completed repointing job should have effects that could last as long as 50 or 60 years.

Besides, exterior walls one of the famous applications of brick Repointing is the restoration of the fireplace in Melbourne.

Still unsure whether your house truly needs brickwork repointing? Get in touch R & K Fuchshofer  We can inspect the brickwork at free of cost. We specialise in brick repointing for exteriors and fireplaces in Melbourne. With extensive years of experience and in-depth industry knowledge, you can rest assured to get the work done in the highest possible manner. Call us to arrange an appointment!

Blockwork vs. Brickwork – Which is the best construction material?

Traditionally, bricks or blocks are used to build the residential properties. But, the choice of which one to use essentially depends on the client’s needs, budget and other factors. Both bricks and blocks are the durable construction material. In both the process, evenly shaped units are laid with the mortar and the binding material.

Let’s have a deeper look at the blocks and bricks.

Brick Construction:

Bricks are the solid unit which is commonly made from concrete, clay, shale, slate, store or calcium silicate. It is made by mixing with sand and water and pressing it into steel moulds. These moulds are later heated at the temperature of 1000°C which strengthens the bricks.

Bricks are great insulators. When laid by a professional and skilled bricklayer, it can aid into energy savings and enhances the comfort of the occupants.

Pros:

• Can withstand high-temperature and provide protection to the structures

• Better sound performance and can hinder the sound from outside

• Offers lower utility expense and keep the home cooler in spring and warm in winter

Cons:

• Extreme climate can degrade the surface due to frost damage

• It adds a significant amount of weight to the establishment. It expands the stress of the establishment

• If the part of the brick wall seems to be damaged, it can’t be repaired. You need to uproot the whole wall which can be a costly affair.

Blockwork:

Blocks are usually produced using concrete and are bigger in size, as compared to brick. Generally, blockwork is used as the part of the interior and exterior applications or auxiliary of the building. Though, blockwork is more expensive as compared to bricks. People who want to build a house in a short duration, opt for blockwork. One block is equivalent to four bricks which reduces the laying time.

Pros:

• Made from sustainable materials that are recyclable, blocks are environment-friendly. 

• As compared to bricks, blockwork is light offering more flexibility, durability and functionality. 

• Concrete blocks are better in enduring earthquakes, hurricanes and tornadoes. 

• Blocks have higher density, thus providing better soundproofing solutions

Cons:

• They are not insulated 

• It is vulnerable to termites and flame

• They don’t provide insulation

Brick vs. Block debate is a very close one. However, it depends a lot on the place, situation and budget. Many prefer to hire professional bricklayers for brick masonry construction as such structures demand less maintenance. While on the other hand, some people prefer less construction cost and regular renovations to keep the blockwork well maintained.

If you are looking for the professional bricklayers of the blockwork specialist in Melbourne and surrounding suburbs, R & K Fuchshofer Bricklaying Services Pty. Ltd. is the perfect destination for you!

Why You Should Construct Fireplaces in Your Home?

When you think about fireplaces then first that comes to your mind is the feeling of warmness. That is one of the greatest benefits of constructing a fireplace in your Melbourne property which moves the thermometer in a positive direction. But there is much more to fireplaces in Melbourne than just providing heat.

Advantages of Constructing Fireplaces:-

Generally, many Melbournians look for fireplaces, while searching for your new home. It adds extra comfort and an extra touch to the overall architectural vitality to the entire house. Besides this, there are other extra benefits of constructing a fireplace in your home including:-

• less energy consumption

If you are living in an area of Melbourne where the climate is really cold, then all you need is the feeling of warmness. Having a fireplace in your home with a properly lined chimney is the best. It is renowned to be energy efficient as it will don’t reflect on your energy bill.

• Makes the environment comfortable

Walking into the home where there is lit fireplace is what every individual desire. It will create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in your home. Also, fireplaces are often the cheerful places to gather around with friends and family.

• Improves your interior design

It is fact that no other heating appliances provide the kind of cost warmth which you can only get from the fire. If you have an open space to lit up the fire, then must construct fireplace in Melbourne and enjoy countless other favourite indoor activities.

• Increased home value

Owning a fireplace in your home can improve the overall look and feel. There are many individuals who actually, give more money for a house if it contains a fireplace. This way it also increases the value of your property and provides you with more money.

Enhance the Look And Feel of Your Home with Fireplaces

Whether you want to enhance the overall look of your home or save the utility costs, fireplaces in Melbourne is the best option. Looking for the professional help to construct or restore your commercial and residential fireplaces? R&K Bricklaying is the ultimate destination. Contact at 0419 801 823 and make your fireplaces everlasting.

How Bricklayers Can Help Improve The Condition Of Your Property?

Bricklayers in Melbourne lay bricks, stone and concrete blocks materials for constructing arches, repair walls, chimneys, fireplaces and other structures in accordance to specifications and blueprints. Bricklayers may be installing firebrick in industrial and commercial incinerators and furnaces.

The duties of a Bricklayer include:

• Laying bricks, stone and other materials for building commercial fireplaces, chimneys, walls, patios and walkways

• Laying firebricks which can be used for industrial chimney lining and smokestacks

• Trimming and cutting the bricks using power and hand tools

• Lining furnaces and boilers using bricks that are accident resistant

• Painting, cleaning or restoring brick structures

• Interpreting and reading blueprints and sketches

Bricklayers generally work on residential and commercial projects. A bricklayer has a continuing relationship for working professionally to meet the requirements of customers, maintain and grow business. They work internally and externally including homes of customers and on building sites, in all weather conditions or small and major projects. Bricklayers may work at heights and outdoors. At times they can be found working in tunnels and shafts.

There are 4 major ways to use bricks to make walls including:

• Brick Veneer

• Reverse Brick Veneer

• Double Brick

• Solid Brick

The major factors which need to be considered when preparing a wall include:

• Appearance

• Structural Capability

• Thermal Mass

• Toxicity And Breathability

• Fire Resistance

• Vermin Resistance

• Durability And Moisture Resistance

R&K Bricklaying provides the best and most affordable bricklaying service in Melbourne. With long term experience in the field of bricklaying we offer services of only the highest standards. We provide comprehensive services ranging from labour to material provision. If you want to know more about our expert services then please call us now at 0419 801 823.

Steps on How to Repoint an Existing Blockwork in Your House!

Due to changing weather conditions, wetting and freezing cycles, mortar joints can be eroded over a period of years. It majorly occurs in older buildings wherein the bricks and mortars are softer.

The mortar joints can be renewed or replaced by Brick repointing, which is the process of removing the damaged mortar and replacing it with the new mortar. This process isn't an easy job and it requires a professional with a high degree of knowledge, experience and skill about matching the new mortar with the original one.

Proper Time to Repoint

The need of repointing arises when existing mortar joints are either eroded when the mortar has shrunk away from the most of the edges of the brick. The major goal of brick repointing is to restore the brick to its original appearance.

Let us have a look at the and the repointing process of the blockwork:

Examine the structure:- 

Before starting any work, it is important that building owners examine the techniques used in the construction and the type of original mortar used. This helps in identifying the true problem with the construction and find out the causes of cracks and deterioration.

Construction Process:- 

1) Removing the old mortar: After you've examined the blockwork and the building, the next step is to cut away the old mortar. It should be done carefully so as to avoid any damage to any masonry units. After the cutting out of the old mortar the joints are cleaned by a brush and space is vacuumed. The remaining mortar is removed by a water jet.

2) Filling in the new mortar: The areas which have the deepest recession are filled first. Several layers of mortars are placed inside the recession and it is continued until the mortar is flushed with the masonry. The mortar needs to stay wet for a couple of days before setting.

R & K Bricklaying, with an experience of more than 20 years, is one of the renowned and established companies based in Victoria that takes care of all your home brick repointing needs. We make sure to offer you correct and friendly advice along with personal attention to details. 

Please feel free to call us today 0419 801 823 to avail all the blockwork services in Melbourne.

Let Fireplace Restoration Add New Life To Your Old Fireplace!

Fireplaces in Melbourne have been around throughout the millenniums and over time they have evolved from crude constructions to modern day masterpieces that can leave you breathless. Across Australia, fireplaces are practically a part of culture being a fixture for the needs they serve and for their aesthetic appeal also.

Many newly built homes that have a steep price tag usually come complete with a fireplace and in many cases two and even three fireplaces to boot. And upscale apartments, townhouses and condominiums also come equipped with a working fireplace, no less.

Are you having a fireplace in your Melbourne home? Whether use it or not, you are still well aware of the potential it has to be a real focal point of the house. However, if your fireplace is purely functional and not really a visual centre piece by any means, it’s time to opt for fireplace restoration and turn your fireplace into the valuable addition to your home.

After years of wear and tear, the fireplace may need to be repaired, rebuilt or restore. Although stone, bricks and mortar are highly durable, they are nevertheless vulnerable to the grime and other debris which happen naturally over the life of a fireplace. From time to time you need to opt for fireplace restoration to its original glory.

Let R&K Bricklaying restore your antique fireplace to its former glory. With years of experience, we can restore any fireplace in Melbourne. We clean, restore, and repair stone and brickwork to have your fireplace and surround looking brand new. All restoration work is undertaken in our state-of-art workshop by our dedicated and experienced team. We offer a free price quote, before commencing any work.

Our workshops can carry out fireplace restoration in the most efficient and precise manner. We can supply replacement parts, repair damaged areas and restore them to its original splendour. We can also arrange to remove the antique fireplace from the property and professionally re-install it after the renovation is done. Revive your old fireplace today!

Why Must We Invest In Good Quality Brick Repointing Services?

We need expert construction services for making strong buildings for both residential and commercial projects. When it comes to protecting the structure of a wall, brick and mortar, Brick Repointing services prove to be highly beneficial. Let us look at some of the major benefits of these services:

• Maintaining Structural Integrity

If there are any signs of falling mortar, growing cracks or decaying joints then it is the right time to opt for Brick Repointing services. To maintain the structural integrity of the building, it is required that these services be hired immediately. After repointing has been done on the walls, it is seen that the wall becomes stronger and its structural integrity is preserved.

• Protection From Harsh Weather

Inclement weather can harm the walls and roofs of a building considerably. Due to this water can seep into the property, leading to issues of damping. When the damaged part is repaired by an experienced repointing expert then the wall becomes as if it is new. It then automatically becomes very stronger and stable.

• Improving Aesthetics

Crumbling mortar has an impact on the appearance of a property and can make it look old. Cracks and stains can further damage the overall appeal of a property. Repointing services along with stain removal are an excellent option, for improving the looks of a property. There will be a make over of the property and personal satisfaction for the owners.

• Increasing Property Value

When a property is maintained in a good condition then its value increases naturally. If the property is sold then a higher selling price can be expected. Repointing thus, make sense for those who want to maintain a good value for their property.

• Maintenance Of The Property

Repointing in general is an excellent way to maintain a property so that it stays in a perfect shape for extended periods of time. If there are residents at the property then they will fell completely safe and secure. Regular maintenance services will increase the life of any property substantially.

Brick Repointing services are best offered by an experienced service provider. R & K Bricklaying has established itself as the best bricklaying services provider in Melbourne. Our expert services include bricklaying, blocklaying, paving, foundations, landscaping, garden design, house renovations and fireplace construction. We are able to complete the job on time and according to Australian standards.

To get additional information about our expert services please feel free to contact us today at 0419 801 823 or 03 9764 9139

Wonderful House Renovation Ideas For Transforming A Home Into A Dream World!

House Renovations can help transform a living space into a dream place by removing defects and making the property more attractive and beautiful to live in. Home owners in Australia and the Melbourne region like to keep their property in a good condition. We have some House Renovations ideas for property owners in the Melbourne area:

• Adding A Master Bedroom Balcony

A balcony is a peaceful and tranquil place to look over your property and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere outside a bedroom.

• Swapping Old Ceiling With A Star Gazing Sunroof

A good way to make your bedroom space more alluring is to have a ceiling which can provide you with a view of the stars at night.

• Installing Accordion Type Glass Windows And Doors

Accordion type doors and windows provide a perfect outside view to a property and are very useful for opening up a space.

• Installing Pull Out Cabinets

Pull out cabinets are excellent for creating extra counter space. They are also very easy to clean and help maintain hygienic living conditions.

• Adding A Bar Rail On The Deck

This can be extremely beneficial for creating an outdoor eating room so that the deck area can be made more functional.

• Creating A Hidden Room

Creating a private hidden room is sometimes as easy as adding a bookcase to a door.

• Consider A Tree House

A tree house can be very useful for creating extra living space near a tree and also as a resting place for the guests.

• Placing Two Dishwashers

This can reduce the load present on a single dishwater making dish washing more efficient and quick.

Thus we see that there are a number of interesting house renovations which can be done to transform a living area into a dream house. To get additional information on house renovations in the Melbourne area visit company R&K Bricklaying.

How house renovations can help transform a living space with some examples of alterations and additions which can be done to a house in order to create a house which residents desire.