Here's what most homeowners don't realize: brick and stone are like sponges. They absorb water. In a place like West Michigan where we get rain, snow, ice, and road salt spray, that absorbed water causes real damage — spalling, efflorescence, mortar deterioration, and freeze-thaw cracking.
Masonry sealing creates an invisible barrier that prevents water absorption while still letting the wall breathe. That breathing part is critical. Sealers that trap moisture inside the wall cause more damage than no sealer at all. We use silane and siloxane-based penetrating sealers that repel water without creating a film.
Not all masonry needs sealing. A well-maintained brick wall that's been standing fine for 80 years might not need it. But if you're seeing water stains, efflorescence, or early signs of spalling, sealing can dramatically slow the damage. We evaluate each project honestly.
Chimneys are the most common masonry element that benefits from sealing. They're the most exposed part of your house — hit by rain from all four sides, baked by sun, frozen by wind. An unsealed chimney in Michigan absorbs an enormous amount of water over the course of a year.
We seal brick, stone, block, and concrete surfaces on homes and commercial buildings throughout Grand Rapids, Ada, Forest Hills, East Grand Rapids, and the surrounding area. Chimneys, foundations, retaining walls, facades — any masonry that's exposed to weather.
Want to protect your masonry investment? Call (616) 612-1284 for a free evaluation. We'll tell you if sealing makes sense for your situation.
