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.

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