The Treasure of Terracotta: Chalk, Charcoal and Clay

The Preservation of Historic Glazed Architectural Terracotta from the medieval associations of tradesmen.

Terracotta was treasured as a design component for centuries because of its durability as a construction material and its beauteous and opulent demeanor. Weighing roughly one tenth as much as stone, terracotta can be molded and fired at high temperatures to a hardness and compactness comparable to that of  brick. As styles evolved and manufacturing costs increased, terracotta was used less often. In the late 1800’s, there were more than 100 terracotta manufacturers in the United States. Today, there are fewer than 10.The scarcity of qualified manufacturers and skilled craftspeople can present threats to the ongoing maintenance and restoration of historic terracotta.terra-cotta

An array of challenges await the restoration contractor , especially when the project calls for historical preservation. Kansas City Masonry/has the experience, expertise and architectural knowledge to cautiously remove the existing historically important elements, record their position in the facade, rebuild the unit if distressed, and work closely with a recognized terracotta manufacturer to fabricate a replica of same dimensional size and glazing finish.

It is critically important to use a contractor who intimately understands all facets of terra cotta in a masonry aspect.

Looking for top-notch masonry services in Springfield, Kansas City, or Arkansas? Look no further! Our skilled artisans bring timeless beauty to every project, from custom fountains to grand water features. Transform your space with our exquisite fountain designs and water sculptures. Trust us to elevate your commercial or residential property with our architectural mastery. Contact us today and let’s build something amazing together!

Looking for top-notch masonry services in Springfield, Kansas City, or Arkansas? Look no further! Our skilled artisans bring timeless beauty to every project, from custom fountains to grand water features. Transform your space with our exquisite fountain designs and water sculptures. Trust us to elevate your commercial or residential property with our architectural mastery. Contact us today and let’s build something amazing together!

Stone Foundations in Kansas City: Beauty or a Beast?

Historical Kansas City homes are classified as homes which were built more than 100 years ago. They were erected with stone foundations. These foundations were generally substantial; at least 18″ thick. Being much more sound than all other building materials and methods, stone masonry was the steadfast cornerstone in construction before World War I.

Stone foundation inspection, diagnosis, repair: this article explains Stone Foundations & Walls: How to Recognize & Diagnose Stone Foundation Cracks, Bulges, Movement, or other Stone Wall Damage such as damage due to impact, settlement, frost or water damage, and other causes.

Types of foundation cracks, crack patterns, differences in the meaning of cracks in different foundation materials, site conditions, building history, and other evidence of building movement and damage are described to assist in recognizing foundation defects and to help the inspector separate cosmetic or low-risk conditions from those likely to be important and potentially costly to repair.

– See more at: http://inspectapedia.com/structure/Stone_Foundation_Damage.php#sthash.oB0JvTv6.dpuf

Some Kansas City historic properties’ foundations maintain their true integrity with just normal settlement over time with no discernible cracks or leaks, while others do not fare as well. Materials used for foundations degrade with time, particularly when exposed to the four alchemy elements:  air, water, wind and fire. A brief visual inspection will quickly disclose bowing, bulging, or shifting of the stone foundation. If you find any of these conditions are found, the skills and services of an experienced mason should be utilized.

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Kansas City Masonry provides unparalleled services when it comes to repairing house foundation cracks. The regions premier historic home preservation company is impassioned in it’s desire to restore original masonry works to its original architectural charm and refinement.

Office Location:  Country Club Plaza

KCMasonrycontractors@gmail.com

(816) 500-4198

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