Masonry work can beautify your home. However, masonry work needs to be properly maintained to optimize its appearance and maximize its lifespan. If you decide to hire a masonry contractor to install masonry work on your home, you need to know how to optimize the condition of your masonry through the years.

The following are six practices that can optimize masonry conditions.

Remove sources of moisture buildup from weep holes

Moisture is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to masonry damage. If you're concerned about moisture damage, you should pay special attention to the weep holes in your masonry structure.

Weep holes are used in masonry wall construction to promote drainage. However, weep holes can also cause water damage if they become clogged and trap water up against your masonry structure as a result.

You should inspect your weeps holes for clogs and unclog them promptly to prevent freeze-thaw damage to your masonry. 

Avoid excessive vegetation growth

While you might appreciate the appearance of ivy or other vegetation growing around your masonry, it's important to realize that excessive vegetation growth can cause damage. If vegetation takes root within your stonework, masonry can become weakened and eventually crumble apart.

Pull back climbing plants and prevent vegetation from growing too close to your masonry walls to prevent damage. 

Regularly apply sealant

Sealant is essential for maximizing the strength of your masonry. Sealant can prevent water damage to your masonry. This is especially true if you live in a colder climate where water damage is common due to frozen water that expands within the masonry.

Sealant can not only protect your masonry from water damage, but also from damage caused by UV rays. Apply the sealant as often as your masonry contractor recommends. 

Have mortar repointed if necessary

As masonry gets older, it becomes necessary to have it repointed. Repointing is necessary if stones begin to fall from your masonry structure and cracks develop within the mortar.

Have your masonry inspected periodically by your masonry contractor. If your contractor recommends repointing, make sure that you schedule this important masonry maintenance service. 

Clean masonry periodically

Simple cleanings can remove salts and dirt from your masonry that can cause discoloration and damage. You can clean your masonry with a mild detergent once in a while to optimize its condition over time. 

Have your masonry contractor perform routine inspections

Your masonry contractor can inspect your masonry on a regular basis to look out for structural problems. Routine inspections are essential for avoiding expensive repair needs and making it so that your masonry structure lasts as long as possible.