the benefits of hiring a licensed masonry contractor for historic home repairs

The benefits of hiring a licensed masonry contractor for historic home repairs

Byramasonry

Historic homes are treasures that tell the story of our communities. From the intricate brickwork and hand-laid stone to the craftsmanship of earlier generations, these homes carry architectural and cultural value that deserves careful preservation. But when cracks appear, mortar begins to crumble, or chimneys start leaning, it’s critical to have repairs handled the right way, by a qualified professional who understands how to protect what makes these structures special.

At R.A. Masonry, we specialize in historic masonry repair, restoration, and waterproofing throughout Moline, IL, and the surrounding Quad Cities. As a licensed and insured masonry contractor, our team combines technical skill, historical understanding, and modern building science to restore aging structures without compromising their original character.

Here’s why hiring a licensed masonry contractor is the best decision you can make for your historic home.

Why historic homes require specialized masonry care

Historic homes aren’t built like modern houses. Older brick and mortar compositions differ from today’s materials, and the methods used decades ago require specific expertise to repair correctly. Many of these buildings were constructed with lime-based mortar, which is softer and more flexible than modern Portland cement mortar. Using the wrong materials during repairs can actually cause further damage.

Key differences that make historic masonry unique include:

    • Softer, more porous bricks that allow moisture to breathe through the wall system
    • Lime-based mortar designed for flexibility and moisture release
    • Hand-tooled joints that define the building’s visual character
    • Non-standard brick sizes or patterns that require custom restoration techniques

Because these older systems behave differently than modern masonry, improper repair methods, like using hard cement-based mortars or synthetic sealants, can trap moisture and cause spalling, cracking, or even structural failure.

A licensed masonry contractor trained in restoration understands these nuances and uses materials compatible with your home’s original construction.

The importance of hiring a licensed and insured contractor

When you’re preserving a piece of history, experience and qualifications matter. Hiring a licensed and insured masonry contractor isn’t just about paperwork, it’s about accountability, safety, and quality craftsmanship.

Here’s why licensing matters:

    • Verified expertise: Licensed masons must meet state and local requirements, demonstrating knowledge of construction codes, safety standards, and proven masonry techniques.
    • Quality assurance: Licensing ensures your contractor follows industry best practices for structural integrity and material compatibility.
    • Protection for homeowners: An insured contractor protects you from liability in the event of accidents, injuries, or property damage.
    • Code compliance: Historic properties often have additional restoration standards. A licensed contractor understands and adheres to these preservation guidelines.

Unlicensed or inexperienced contractors may promise quick fixes or lower prices, but those repairs often fail within a few years, or worse, damage the historic materials beyond repair. With R.A. Masonry, you can trust that every project meets state licensing requirements and is backed by full insurance coverage for your peace of mind.

Preserving architectural integrity

One of the greatest challenges in restoring historic masonry is maintaining authenticity. Every home tells a story through its materials, the color of the brick, the texture of the mortar, the curvature of the arches, and the pattern of the joints. Preserving these details requires a deep understanding of both historical methods and modern conservation standards.

At R.A. Masonry, we focus on:

    • Matching mortar composition to the original lime-to-sand ratio for structural and aesthetic consistency
    • Reusing original materials whenever possible, salvaging bricks or stone to maintain authenticity
    • Replicating original textures and joint profiles for seamless visual blending
    • Using traditional techniques such as hand-tooling and tuckpointing for accuracy

By honoring the craftsmanship of the past while ensuring long-term durability, we help preserve the historical integrity that makes your home unique.

The risks of hiring unqualified contractors

When it comes to historic structures, improper repair work can be disastrous. Homeowners sometimes hire general contractors or handymen who lack the specialized training required for masonry restoration, only to find that their home’s character, and structure, has been compromised.

Common problems caused by unqualified repair work include:

    • Mortar that’s too hard, leading to cracked or crushed bricks
    • Mismatched materials that disrupt appearance and cause uneven weathering
    • Sealing methods that trap moisture instead of allowing the wall to breathe
    • Incorrect joint finishes that change the historic look of the building
    • Poor waterproofing or flashing that leads to internal leaks and mold

Repairing these mistakes later can cost far more than doing the job correctly the first time. Hiring a licensed masonry professional from the start protects your investment and ensures the repairs meet preservation standards.

Understanding the historic restoration process

Historic masonry restoration isn’t just about fixing visible damage, it’s about understanding the building’s condition, materials, and long-term stability. The process begins with a detailed inspection to identify structural weaknesses, material deterioration, and areas of moisture infiltration.

A typical restoration project may include:

    • Assessment and documentation of existing conditions
    • Mortar and material testing to determine original compositions
    • Tuckpointing or repointing with historically appropriate mortar
    • Brick or stone replacement using matched materials
    • Cleaning and sealing with gentle, non-destructive methods
    • Chimney restoration and waterproofing to prevent future deterioration

At R.A. Masonry, our approach combines historical accuracy with structural reinforcement. We never use one-size-fits-all solutions, each home is treated as a one-of-a-kind project.

The value of professional craftsmanship

A licensed masonry contractor doesn’t just repair what’s broken, they understand how to protect the entire system. Masonry is more than just brick and mortar; it’s a living structure that expands, contracts, and breathes. Repairs must respect that natural movement to ensure the building continues performing as intended.

Professional masons offer benefits that include:

    • Proper analysis of structural integrity before beginning repairs
    • Selection of materials that match the home’s original composition
    • Long-lasting repairs that maintain both strength and appearance
    • Expertise in local climate challenges, especially Illinois freeze-thaw cycles
    • Access to specialized tools, scaffolding, and safety equipment

Our team at R.A. Masonry brings decades of experience and training to every project. Each craftsman is skilled in traditional masonry methods, from lime-based tuckpointing to stone restoration, ensuring every repair is as strong as it is beautiful.

Case example: restoring a historic brick home in Davenport

A homeowner in Davenport, Iowa, contacted us after noticing crumbling mortar and water stains on their 1920s brick home. The original mortar had been replaced years earlier with modern Portland cement, which caused the softer bricks to deteriorate.

We carefully removed the incompatible mortar, hand-mixed a new lime-based blend that matched the home’s original formula, and repointed the entire facade. We also added a breathable waterproofing treatment to protect the structure from future freeze-thaw damage.

The result was a restored exterior that looked authentic to its period while meeting modern structural standards, and the homeowner’s peace of mind knowing their historic home was preserved the right way.

How professional licensing builds trust and accountability

Earning and maintaining a contractor’s license requires education, experience, and ongoing compliance with building codes and safety regulations. These credentials are a reflection of a contractor’s professionalism and commitment to quality.

When you hire R.A. Masonry, you can trust that we:

    • Are licensed and insured to perform masonry work in Illinois and Iowa
    • Follow industry standards for historic preservation and structural repair
    • Use high-quality materials sourced from reputable suppliers
    • Provide detailed estimates and transparent communication from start to finish
    • Stand behind our work with proven results and client satisfaction

Why professional restoration adds long-term value

Historic homes hold not only sentimental value but also significant market appeal. Maintaining their original features and structural integrity increases property value and attracts buyers who appreciate authenticity.

Professional masonry restoration provides:

    • Long-lasting protection from moisture and structural failure
    • Preservation of architectural details that enhance curb appeal
    • Improved energy efficiency through sealed and stable walls
    • Greater safety and stability for occupants
    • Compliance with local preservation guidelines for historic districts

By investing in a licensed masonry contractor, you’re protecting your home’s history and ensuring it remains a cherished landmark for generations to come.

Areas we serve

R.A. Masonry proudly serves homeowners throughout the Quad Cities, including:

    • Moline, IL
    • Rock Island, IL
    • East Moline, IL
    • Silvis, IL
    • Davenport, IA
    • Bettendorf, IA
    • Milan, IL
    • Coal Valley, IL

Our services include historic masonry restoration, foundation waterproofing, chimney repair, stone and brick restoration, and structural masonry repair for both residential and commercial properties.

Protect your historic home — trust R.A. Masonry

Preserve your home’s legacy with expert masonry restoration from R.A. Masonry

Don’t leave your home’s history in inexperienced hands. Our licensed, insured professionals specialize in the repair and restoration of historic brick and stone homes throughout Moline and the Quad Cities. From tuckpointing and chimney repair to full facade restoration, we combine old-world craftsmanship with modern durability.

Call (309) 230-6064 or request an estimate online to schedule your historic home inspection today. We proudly serve homeowners in Moline, Rock Island, Davenport, and surrounding communities with trusted, high-quality masonry restoration services.