9 Steps to an Expert Parapet Wall Rebuild

PARAPET WALL REBUILD

Rebuilding a damaged parapet wall involves more extensive work compared to simple repairs, often requiring the removal and replacement of significant portions of the wall. Here’s a step-by-step guide FocalPoint Masonry follows for rebuilding a damaged parapet wall:

  1. Assessment of Damage: FocalPoint Masonry will begin the parapet wall rebuild by thoroughly assessing the extent of the damage to the parapet wall. We will identify areas where the wall has deteriorated, cracked, or collapsed, and determine the scope of the rebuilding project.
  2. Safety Precautions: FocalPoint Masonry will ensure proper safety measures are in place before beginning the parapet wall rebuild. This may include wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety goggles, and a hard hat, as well as using scaffolding or other support structures to safely access the damaged area. If necessary we will erect a canopy and pedestrian walkway to protect pedestrians and our workers on the ground level
  3. Demolition: FocalPoint masonry will use appropriate tools such as a sledgehammer, chisel, or wrecking hammer to carefully demolish the damaged sections of the parapet wall. We will take care to remove all debris and rubble from the work area, and dispose of it properly.
  4. Foundation Inspection and Repair: FocalPoint Masonry will then inspect the foundation of the parapet wall to ensure it is structurally sound and capable of supporting the rebuilt wall. If any foundation damage is present, we will repair it before proceeding with the rebuilding process. This can often be done by tuckpointing the common brick backup wall. Sometimes the backup wall must be rebuilt as well.
  5. Rebuilding Structure: FocalPoint Masonry will begin the parapet wall rebuild by laying a new foundation if necessary. Then we will construct the base of the wall using bricks, stones, or other suitable building materials. We will build upward, layer by layer, using mortar to secure each course of bricks or stones in place. We will ensure that the wall is level and plumb as you build.
  6. Integration with Existing Structure: If the parapet wall rebuild calls for rebuilding a portion of an existing parapet wall, we will take care to integrate the new construction with the old. We will match the style, materials, and dimensions of the existing wall as closely as possible to maintain a cohesive appearance. This will be done to the best of our ability with the available materials from our vendors at multiple brick and material yards in the Chicago area.
  7. Repointing Mortar Joints: Once the new wall structure is in place, FocalPoint’s expert masons will repoint the mortar joints between bricks or stones to strengthen the wall and improve its appearance. We will use a pointing trowel to fill in any gaps or voids in the mortar joints, and smooth the surface to match the surrounding masonry.
  8. Finishing Touches: After completing the rebuilding process, FocalPoint Masonry will perform a walkthrough with the property owner to inspect the parapet wall to ensure that it is structurally sound and visually appealing. We will clean up any debris or leftover materials from the work area, and make any final adjustments as needed to ensure the wall meets your expectations.
  9. Waterproofing and Sealing: To protect the newly rebuilt parapet wall from moisture damage, FocalPoint Masonry recommends applying a commercial grade waterproofing masonry sealer or coating to the surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, and allow the sealer to dry completely before considering the project complete. We recommend Professional Water Sealant PWS-8 or PWS-15

By following these steps, you can effectively rebuild a damaged parapet wall, restoring its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal for years to come.

CONTACT THE EXPERTS AT FOCALPOINT MASONRY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

CALL NOW (847)496-3343

Parapet Wall Rebuild
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8 Steps to Expert Parapet Wall Repairs in Chicago

Parapet wall repairs are particularly important in Chicago due to the city’s history and architecture. Repairing a damaged parapet wall typically involves several steps, which may vary depending on the extent of the damage and the materials used in the construction of the wall. Chicago has a long tradition of tall buildings, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when skyscrapers began to rise in the city.

Here’s a general outline of the process:

  1. Assessment of Damage: Before beginning any parapet wall repairs, thoroughly inspect the parapet wall to determine the extent of the damage. Look for cracks, crumbling masonry, loose bricks or stones, water damage, and any other signs of deterioration.
  2. Safety Precautions: Ensure proper safety measures are in place before starting parapet wall repairs. This may include wearing protective gear such as gloves, safety goggles, and a hard hat, as well as using scaffolding or other support structures to safely access the damaged area.
  3. Cleaning and Preparation: Clean the damaged area of the parapet wall to remove any loose debris, dirt, or vegetation. Use a wire brush or pressure washer to scrub away dirt and grime, and remove any loose mortar or damaged bricks or stones.
  4. Repairing Cracks and Holes: For expert parapet wall repairs, if there are any cracks or holes in the parapet wall, they will need to be filled and patched. Use a suitable masonry repair mortar or cement mix to fill in the damaged areas, following the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and application. Make sure to fill the cracks or holes completely and smooth the surface with a trowel.
  5. Replacing Damaged Bricks or Stones: If any bricks or stones in the parapet wall are cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged beyond repair, they will need to be replaced. Carefully remove the damaged bricks or stones and replace them with new ones of a similar size and style. Use mortar to secure the new bricks or stones in place, ensuring they are level and aligned with the surrounding masonry.
  6. Repointing Mortar Joints: Over time, the mortar joints between bricks or stones can deteriorate and weaken. Repointing involves removing deteriorated mortar and replacing it with fresh mortar to strengthen the wall. Use a chisel or joint raker to carefully remove old mortar, taking care not to damage the surrounding masonry. Once the old mortar is removed, fill the joints with fresh mortar using a pointing trowel, and smooth the surface to match the existing mortar joints.
  7. Waterproofing and Sealing: To prevent future damage from water infiltration, it’s important to waterproof the repaired parapet wall. Apply a suitable waterproofing sealer or coating to the surface of the wall, following the manufacturer’s instructions for application. This will help protect the masonry from water damage and prolong the life of the repair.
  8. Finishing Touches: Once the parapet wall repairs are complete and any sealant or waterproofing has dried, inspect the parapet wall to ensure that everything is in good condition. Clean up any debris or leftover materials, and make any final adjustments as needed to ensure the wall is structurally sound and visually appealing.

By following these steps, you can effectively repair a damaged parapet wall and restore it to its original condition, ensuring long-lasting durability and structural integrity.

Parapet walls play a significant role in the urban fabric of Chicago, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes while contributing to the city’s unique architectural identity.

FocalPoint Masonry are expert masonry contractors who specialize in parapet wall repairs as well as tuckpointing, chimney repair, steel lintel replacement, caulking and so much more.

PARAPET WALL REPAIRS

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY!

CALL NOW (847)496-3343

Parapet Wall Repairs

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3 Things that impact expert Tuckpointing Cost?

This is a very common question that we receive from homeowners. Unfortunately, the answer to how much tuckpointing costs is not as straight forward as one would hope. There are many variables that come into play. It is impossible to provide a standard price for tuckpointing cost by square foot for example. But if we had to provide a parameter for how much does tuckpointing cost, it would be between $10-$30 per square foot. Here is a list of variables that will determine how much it will cost to tuckpoint your property.

  • Will the old mortar be removed at least ¾” in depth?

Many fly by night companies will not remove the old mortar in a satisfactory way. The old mortar should be grinded out at least ¾” in depth to ensure long life for the new mortar. Some companies leave the old mortar in the joints and simply tuckpoint over. This causes many problems almost immediately. When the old, brittle and failing mortar is not removed the new mortar does not adhere to the joints and actually traps moisture in between the old and new mortar. Instead of lasting decades you will be forced to re tuckpoint this poor craftsmanship in the matter of months or a few short years.

  • What type of rigging is involved?

One of the biggest expenses for tuckpointing cost at a property is the amount of rigging that is involved. In order to safely rig pipe scaffolding or a swing stage takes expertise and additional time. If you own a ranch house that is 7’ high, the cost to tuckpoint will obviously be lower than if you own a 3 flat. You definitely do not want a company to cut corners while rigging, this is when injuries can occur and as a homeowner you may be liable for medical expenses, especially if the masonry company does not carry Commercial General Liability and Worker’s Compensation Insurance.

That’s why “spot pointing” is also difficult to estimate cost. The time to rig the scaffolding often far exceeds the time to tuckpoint a spot here and a spot there. Please keep this in mind when you only have a small area that you feel needs to be addressed.

  • What permits are required for tuckpointing?

Tuckpointing cost can be impacted by what permits are required. Every municipality has different rules for what is required to allow tuckpointing in their Village or city. For example, many municipalities require a mason contractor to be a registered contractor in their municipality and some cities, like Chicago, require the mason to be licensed in order to pull a permit. These permits can cost between $600-$1,000, this can significantly impact the tuckpointing cost. Once again, if you go with a mason contractor that is unlicensed or under insured you can potentially receive citations, be fined and/or face litigation if a worker is injured on your property.

The city of Chicago also requires an Air Pollution Control permit if the tuckpointing will be using an electric grinder. Even with a dust minimization plan in place this will increase the tuckpointing cost in Chicago.

These are just a few variables of what can affect tuckpointing cost. If the price sounds to good to be true, it probably is. The mason is probably not licensed, does not carry the required insurance and will not be able to pull the required permits. The work may also be sub-standard costing additional time and money when they have to redo the work in short order.

Please feel free to contact FocalPoint Masonry Inc for a proposal on your tuckpointing job on the northwest side of Chicago and the northwest suburbs. Call (847)496-3343

Request a Free Estimate

Tuckpointing Cost 
 
 
 
  Excellent  
    
 Based on 22 reviews 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Polly Muehleman 
 
 
 Polly Muehleman 
 
2024-04-17
 
 
  
We are very happy with the work FocalPoint Masonry did on our chimney. We were treated kindly and professionally throughout the process. We highly recommend this business for your masonry needs.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Surgeon Burning 
 
 
 Surgeon Burning 
 
2023-08-30
 
 
  
Dan and his team did a great job tuckpointing my home. Thanks guys we will be calling you for future projects
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Miki Radivojevic 
 
 
 Miki Radivojevic 
 
2023-04-22
 
 
  
I have used Dan and his guys on a couple jobs at a mixed use building I own.  Dan is easy to communicate with and clearly lays out costs upfront (which isn't always the case with construction people). I will definitely use him again!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 John Allegretti 
 
 
 John Allegretti 
 
2023-04-20
 
 
  
Dan and his team have done multiple jobs at my Park Ridge, IL home. Jobs have included stone arch work, brick tuck pointing, and waterproofing. All water seepage has ceased. Brick and stone work has turned out beautifully. The team was always punctual and courteous. Sergio always had time for any questions we had. All this at a reasonable price. I would highly recommend FocalPoint Masonry to any of my friends or neighbors.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Juliaan 
 
 
 Juliaan 
 
2022-06-24
 
 
  
I cannot recommend Sergio enough. The masonry on our home had been allowed to go too long before we purchased it and required a significant rebuilding all the way from the windows up. As a result, we got to know Sergio well and he is a great person to work with when undergoing a project like we did. The quality of their works was excellent and Sergio knows what he is doing when works with old homes, which was particularly important to us. The price to the quality of work is excellent and I highly recommend Focal Point Masonry.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Riser Vet 
 
 
 Riser Vet 
 
2021-09-01
 
 
  
They did a good job, we would hire them again.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 lorrainedorff 
 
 
 lorrainedorff 
 
2021-07-22
 
 
  
The crew was on time, worked an incredibly long day, and was businesslike and professional.  The work they did was exceptional.  We were extremely pleased with the entire experience.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Alex Mattucci 
 
 
 Alex Mattucci 
 
2021-06-16
 
 
  
One of the best contractor experiences I've ever had. They show up on time, keep you informed and most importantly they do great work and easy to work with. I highly recommend.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 ngeligirl 
 
 
 ngeligirl 
 
2021-06-15
 
 
  
Great work. Got the job done quickly. Did good quality work. Was polite and informative of the entire process. Competitive prices. They rebuilt my chimney. Will hire them again to do tuckpointing.
/by

Expert Tuckpointing Chicago

Tuckpointing Chicago brick involves removing and replacing deteriorating mortar with fresh mortar.  Mortar can fail for a variety of reasons including but not limited to shoddy workmanship, erosion from moisture and extreme temperature changes. Brick buildings exposed to hot Chicago summers and then extremely cold winters present unique challenges for tuckpointing Chicago common brick. Another factor for tuckpointing Chicago common brick can be the weight from the overhead bricks. Bricks can often last close to a century, unfortunately the lifespan of mortar is typically 10 to 30 years—meaning it will need replacement or repointing more than once during the life of a brick building.

Tuckpointing Chicago common brick is impacted by mortar joints being the weakest part of a brick wall. Therefore it is common to see cracks running through the joints, even if the bricks remain intact. A few small cracks do not signify the need to tuckpoint, but when the mortar joints begin to crumble and mortar begins to fall out, property owners should repair it before any additional mortar affects the integrity of the wall. More importantly if deteriorating mortar isn’t repaired, water infiltration is much more likely and it could eventually cause the wall or chimney to collapse. Chimneys are especially vulnerable to the elements as they are the highest point of the building and most exposed to wind, rain, sleet and snow. Tuckpointing Chicago common brick chimneys is one of our specialties.

Tuckpointing Chicago common brick is an essential service we provide. FocalPoint Masonry employs highly skilled brick masons who will restore your buildings brick mortar joints to near original condition. Tuckpointing Chicago common brick insures decades of a strong and aesthetically pleasing structure. Please contact us today for a free consultation in regards to tuckpointing Chicago common brick.

Tuckpointing Chicago
Request A Free Estimate
 
 
 
  Excellent  
    
 Based on 22 reviews 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Polly Muehleman 
 
 
 Polly Muehleman 
 
2024-04-17
 
 
  
We are very happy with the work FocalPoint Masonry did on our chimney. We were treated kindly and professionally throughout the process. We highly recommend this business for your masonry needs.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Surgeon Burning 
 
 
 Surgeon Burning 
 
2023-08-30
 
 
  
Dan and his team did a great job tuckpointing my home. Thanks guys we will be calling you for future projects
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Miki Radivojevic 
 
 
 Miki Radivojevic 
 
2023-04-22
 
 
  
I have used Dan and his guys on a couple jobs at a mixed use building I own.  Dan is easy to communicate with and clearly lays out costs upfront (which isn't always the case with construction people). I will definitely use him again!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 John Allegretti 
 
 
 John Allegretti 
 
2023-04-20
 
 
  
Dan and his team have done multiple jobs at my Park Ridge, IL home. Jobs have included stone arch work, brick tuck pointing, and waterproofing. All water seepage has ceased. Brick and stone work has turned out beautifully. The team was always punctual and courteous. Sergio always had time for any questions we had. All this at a reasonable price. I would highly recommend FocalPoint Masonry to any of my friends or neighbors.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Juliaan 
 
 
 Juliaan 
 
2022-06-24
 
 
  
I cannot recommend Sergio enough. The masonry on our home had been allowed to go too long before we purchased it and required a significant rebuilding all the way from the windows up. As a result, we got to know Sergio well and he is a great person to work with when undergoing a project like we did. The quality of their works was excellent and Sergio knows what he is doing when works with old homes, which was particularly important to us. The price to the quality of work is excellent and I highly recommend Focal Point Masonry.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Riser Vet 
 
 
 Riser Vet 
 
2021-09-01
 
 
  
They did a good job, we would hire them again.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 lorrainedorff 
 
 
 lorrainedorff 
 
2021-07-22
 
 
  
The crew was on time, worked an incredibly long day, and was businesslike and professional.  The work they did was exceptional.  We were extremely pleased with the entire experience.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Alex Mattucci 
 
 
 Alex Mattucci 
 
2021-06-16
 
 
  
One of the best contractor experiences I've ever had. They show up on time, keep you informed and most importantly they do great work and easy to work with. I highly recommend.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 ngeligirl 
 
 
 ngeligirl 
 
2021-06-15
 
 
  
Great work. Got the job done quickly. Did good quality work. Was polite and informative of the entire process. Competitive prices. They rebuilt my chimney. Will hire them again to do tuckpointing.
/by

Expensive Masonry Repairs vs Masonry Maintenance

Avoid Expensive Masonry Repairs

Maintenance on a property, especially one that has brick and/or stone exterior, is essential to keep repair costs down. Regularly maintaining the property can prevent big ticket repairs down the line. There are many examples of maintenance versus repair when discussing masonry materials and sealants. It is recommended and almost required to perform either an annual or semi-annual walkthrough to gauge the conditions of your property. If the building is in a climate that experiences freezing temperatures in the winter and hot/humid conditions in the summer months more regular check-ups are necessary. This is because many of the sealants are made of materials that expand and contract with the weather, leaving them vulnerable to cracking and overall deterioration.

Anytime you see a crack whether it be on mortar joints or on a caulk sealant water infiltration is present. Water infiltration can be a huge problem for masonry materials and lead to costly masonry repairs. Tuckpointing in areas where mortar has begun to crack and wash away can prevent the need to tuckpoint an entire property.

Making sure that masonry sealants around lintels are intact can keep those items from needing to be replaced which may cause an eye sore and an expensive repair. It is amazing what a case of NP1 stone caulk can do to reduce the need for expensive major masonry repairs. Reducing or eliminating cracks in the mortar joints and replacing worn out seals around windows and sills can save some big money down the road.

Having a maintenance plan in place and performing regular inspections of masonry exteriors can substantially reduce the cost of masonry repairs. The last thing a property owner wants is a letter in the mail from the city stating that they are in violation of Code X, Y or Z. Those are the most expensive repairs and can really hurt a property owner. Plan ahead and perform regular maintenance and these violations and expensive masonry repairs will not be required.

Schedule a Free Consultation Now!

CALL NOW (847)496-3343 

 

Masonry Repairs 
 
 
 
  Excellent  
    
 Based on 22 reviews 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Polly Muehleman 
 
 
 Polly Muehleman 
 
2024-04-17
 
 
  
We are very happy with the work FocalPoint Masonry did on our chimney. We were treated kindly and professionally throughout the process. We highly recommend this business for your masonry needs.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Surgeon Burning 
 
 
 Surgeon Burning 
 
2023-08-30
 
 
  
Dan and his team did a great job tuckpointing my home. Thanks guys we will be calling you for future projects
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Miki Radivojevic 
 
 
 Miki Radivojevic 
 
2023-04-22
 
 
  
I have used Dan and his guys on a couple jobs at a mixed use building I own.  Dan is easy to communicate with and clearly lays out costs upfront (which isn't always the case with construction people). I will definitely use him again!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 John Allegretti 
 
 
 John Allegretti 
 
2023-04-20
 
 
  
Dan and his team have done multiple jobs at my Park Ridge, IL home. Jobs have included stone arch work, brick tuck pointing, and waterproofing. All water seepage has ceased. Brick and stone work has turned out beautifully. The team was always punctual and courteous. Sergio always had time for any questions we had. All this at a reasonable price. I would highly recommend FocalPoint Masonry to any of my friends or neighbors.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Juliaan 
 
 
 Juliaan 
 
2022-06-24
 
 
  
I cannot recommend Sergio enough. The masonry on our home had been allowed to go too long before we purchased it and required a significant rebuilding all the way from the windows up. As a result, we got to know Sergio well and he is a great person to work with when undergoing a project like we did. The quality of their works was excellent and Sergio knows what he is doing when works with old homes, which was particularly important to us. The price to the quality of work is excellent and I highly recommend Focal Point Masonry.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Riser Vet 
 
 
 Riser Vet 
 
2021-09-01
 
 
  
They did a good job, we would hire them again.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 lorrainedorff 
 
 
 lorrainedorff 
 
2021-07-22
 
 
  
The crew was on time, worked an incredibly long day, and was businesslike and professional.  The work they did was exceptional.  We were extremely pleased with the entire experience.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Alex Mattucci 
 
 
 Alex Mattucci 
 
2021-06-16
 
 
  
One of the best contractor experiences I've ever had. They show up on time, keep you informed and most importantly they do great work and easy to work with. I highly recommend.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 ngeligirl 
 
 
 ngeligirl 
 
2021-06-15
 
 
  
Great work. Got the job done quickly. Did good quality work. Was polite and informative of the entire process. Competitive prices. They rebuilt my chimney. Will hire them again to do tuckpointing.
/by