Parapet Restoration: Addressing The Problem

by | Apr 26, 2016 | Building Restoration Service

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Parapets have been around for centuries. In the past, they decorated the walls of castles, adding another layer of protective measures to formidable structures. In London, many homes still feature parapets. They line the tops of row houses on older streets. In the United States, many Mission-style homes feature these frequently decorative items. As is the case with most brick or stone structures, repair is an essential part of upkeep. Parapet restoration has become a fact of regular maintenance in countries across the globe.

Parapet Restoration: Facing the Issues

Parapet restoration comes as result of many issues, some of which are quite common. The position of parapets on rooftops, with both sides braving the elements, results in a number of potentially dangerous problems. Parapets suffer from a variety of issues that affect the various components that make up the parapet walls.

  • Mortar: The mortar recedes deep into the brick or stone. This weakens its ability to hold the material in place.
  • Cracks: Cracks also present their own danger to people below.
  • Loose masonry: Presents a safety issue.
  • Falling masonry: Presents a serious, even deadly, safety issue.
  • Stains: These occur from lime, water and similar materials or chemicals. Again, they can negatively impact the ability of parapets to perform their task safely and effectively.

Although an owner can apply topping and flashing to decrease many of the possible problems, proper and ongoing maintenance is essential. Annual inspections and recognizing when parapet restoration is essential are necessary if the wall is to retain its integrity.

Parapet Restoration Methods

Parapet restoration involves utilizing any or all of several methods. Qualified, experienced and even specialized masons will be able to address the issues. They will work to repair and restore the walls. Tuck pointers will repoint any recessed mortar in the brickwork. Other masons will replace the cracked or crumbling bricks with fabricated components. These may mimic the original brickwork but will be composed of more durable material. Resetting the existing coping, grinding and employing other appropriate techniques to return the parapets to their original glory are the provenance of skilled masons.

Parapet Restoration

The ancient walls known as parapets play a role in many older and modern structures. They provide an extra level of protection to the structure, as well as safety from falling off the edge on certain townhouses and other buildings. They are decorative with a lengthy heritage hailing back to early castles. They are a means of providing firebreaks and act to conceal mechanical systems.

Overall, parapets are useful structures. Yet, they are not without their problems. Like all brick structures, they require maintenance. They can suffer from damages that can result in serious harm to the structure or passersby. Business and residential owners or managers need to know of the dangers presented by faulty parapets. By recognizing the signs, they can call experts in parapet restoration to ensure its structural integrity is reinstated.

Getting a job done right and on times is part of our services at Soumar Masonry Restoration. Our professional and experienced staff is always ready to provide advice. Their expertise in areas such as historic restoration, industrial masonry repair and parapet restoration, makes them the go-to people for any masonry work. For further information about who we are and the services we provide, contact us at soumar.com. You can also connect them on Google+ for more updates!

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