Far too often the wrong bricks are selected for extension works. The photo's below demonstrate that even in extreme cases, corrections can be made. Even when using a well matched brick, we are able to 'age' their appearance.
BRICK TINTING: PATCHY BRICKWORK
Structural repairs can lead to unnattractive variations in the brickwork. Through a process of colour matching masonry dyes and applying them with a keen eye for detail, we can soon get rid of these inconsistencies and blend them into their surroundings.
BRICK MATCHING / SELECTION
If you're about to embark on a building project, you should first carefully consider which bricks to use. If you are adding an extension to an existing building, a close match to the original should be sought. If an exact match cannot be found then we can add the finishing touches and if so, a brick of similar 'texture' should be sought. It is worth bearing in mind that tinting to a darker colour can often produce the best results (however each situation is different). If you plan to use our services and have a few bricks to choose from, we are happy to advise you on which we believe is the best choice.
RE-POINTING
Mortar plays an important role in protecting the surrounding masonry and should be carefully designed to allow for breathability as well as strength. Many older buildings have been damaged in recent years by over use of modern building sands and cements and under use of graded sands and lime. As well as ensuring that the composition of a mortar is suitable, we also ensure that the right colour is achieved (primarily through careful sand selection). Furthermore, depending on the situation at hand, we are able to re-point in any number of joint profiles including weather-struck, flush, recessed, exposed aggregate and tuck etc.
CLEANING & REPAIRS
All too often old buildings are overcleaned without careful attention to appearance. This can also lead to damage of the masonry substrate. We prefer to work with the character of a building and in doing so, refrain from the use of harmful chemicals and techinques. Instead we prefer to use leading conservation equipment and techniques (we are approved operators of the DOFF & JOS / TORC systems).
EXPOSING & ENHANCING INTERNAL MASONRY
We can expose and enhance internal masonry to a style that suits you (whether this be natural, cleaned, sealed, oiled etc). If brick tinting would assist this process, it's worth noting that the dyes we use are odourless, non-toxic and fire resistant (they can be used in fireplaces).