The mortar between units does the quiet work in every masonry wall. Here is what it is and why it matters.
Mortar is the mix of cement, lime, sand and water that bonds bricks and stones together. It also cushions the units and lets the wall move slightly. Grout is a thinner mix used to fill cells in block walls and gaps between stones.
The strength of the mortar matters. It should be softer than the brick it holds, so that stress and moisture are released through the joints instead of through the brick. Old walls need soft, lime-rich mortar, while new walls may use stronger mixes. Color and sand choice also shape the look of a wall.
Holds the wall together.
Protects the units.
Shapes the look.
Releases moisture.
Old walls, new walls, block.
Plan for it.
Brick Masonry RepairsCracked bricks, crumbling mortar, loose courses and leaning corners, repaired by hand so the wall looks original and…Explore 
Tuckpointing and RepointingOld mortar ground out and replaced with fresh, color-matched mortar so water stays out and the wall looks…Explore 
Firebox Repair and RefacingCracked firebrick, failing joints and damaged hearths repaired so the fireplace is safe, tidy and ready for the…Explore 
Historic Masonry RestorationCareful restoration of older brick and stone, using soft lime mortars and period techniques to preserve character and…Explore 
Mortar Matching and BlendingCustom mortar mixes matched to your existing wall in color, texture and strength so repairs disappear into the…Explore Take the quiz, check for damage or ballpark a budget.
Which Masonry Project Fits My Home? QuizAnswer five questions about your yard and your goals and see the masonry projects that fit best.Try it 
Masonry Damage CheckerPick what you see on your brick, stone or chimney to learn what it may mean and how urgent it is.Try it 
Masonry Budget PlannerPick a project and a size and get a ballpark planning range.Try it Weather, water and age wear away mortar over decades.
Not always. Mortar should be softer than the units.
Yes, with pigments chosen to match.
Material guideClay BrickFired clay brick is the classic masonry material. Here is how it looks, performs and ages in Tennessee…Learn more 
Material guideNatural StoneLimestone, fieldstone and flagstone give projects depth and character. Here is how stone looks, performs and ages.Learn more 
Material guideManufactured StoneCast stone veneer offers a consistent look at a lighter weight. Here is how it performs and where…Learn more 
Material guideConcrete BlockConcrete masonry units are the strong, simple core of many walls. Here is how they work and where…Learn more Call us and we will visit your property, look closely at the work and give you a clear plan and a written scope.
