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The Cinder Block vs Brick Guide: Should You Use Them?
Cinder block and brick are by far two of the most commonly used masonry materials. Knowing when to choose cinder block vs brick isn’t always obvious. Both are known for a wide variety of strengths, but there are certainly times when one makes much more sense than the other. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each, when to use each one, cost, and more. Pros and Cons of Cinder Block You’ll see cinder block in everything from backyard retaining walls and garden beds to garag
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Mar 106 min read
How to Clean Brick: The Interior & Exterior Guide
Key Takeaways The best way to clean brick depends on the type of stain, where the brick is located, and the condition of the brick and mortar. Mild dish soap and warm water can work well for everyday dirt, while soot, paint, mortar, algae, and other tough stains might require a masonry-safe cleaner. Interior and exterior brick require different approaches because outdoor brick is exposed to moisture, weather, algae, and heavier buildup. Pressure washing bricks can be effectiv
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The Guide to Spalling Brick: What It Is & How to Fix It
Key Takeaways Spalling brick is a type of brick damage that causes the surface to crack, flake, or crumble after moisture gets trapped inside the brick. The most common causes of spalling brick include water intrusion, freeze-thaw cycles, deteriorating mortar joints, poor drainage, and aging masonry. You can identify spalled brick by looking for peeling surfaces, cracked bricks, loose mortar, and pieces of brick breaking away from the wall. Spalling brick repair might involve
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The Guide to Using Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF)
Key Takeaways ● Insulated concrete forms combine reinforced concrete with built-in insulation to create walls that are strong, durable, and energy-efficient. ● Using insulated concrete forms can help lower heating and cooling costs by reducing heat loss in the winter and keeping homes cooler in the summer. ● ICF homes offer excellent resistance to fire, extreme weather, moisture, pests, and outside noise. ● While insulated concrete form construction typically costs more up
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