Expert Expansion Joints & Sealant Replacement | Northwest Chicago
General Masonry Construction provides specialized sealant replacement and expansion joint maintenance for residential and commercial properties throughout Northwest Chicago and the North Shore. Properly maintained sealants are your building’s first line of defense against water infiltration, structural shifting, and costly masonry deterioration.
The Importance of Masonry Expansion Joints
Expansion joints are intentional gaps in brick and stone work designed to allow for the natural movement of your building. Without functional masonry expansion joints, thermal expansion can lead to unsightly cracks and structural instability.
We specialize in the professional installation of high-quality elastomeric sealants that maintain their elasticity through Chicago’s extreme temperature swings. Our process includes:
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Deep Cleaning: We carefully remove all deteriorated or failing caulk to ensure a clean bonding surface.
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Backer Rod Installation: We use appropriately sized backer rods to ensure the sealant bead is the correct depth and width for maximum durability.
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Premium Sealants: We apply industry-leading polyurethane, silicone, or polysulfide sealants compatible with your specific brick or stone type.
The Importance of Masonry Expansion Joints
Expansion joints are intentional gaps in brick and stone work designed to allow for the natural movement of your building. Without functional masonry expansion joints, thermal expansion can lead to unsightly cracks and structural instability.
We specialize in the professional installation of high-quality elastomeric sealants that maintain their elasticity through Chicago’s extreme temperature swings. Our process includes:
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Deep Cleaning: We carefully remove all deteriorated or failing caulk to ensure a clean bonding surface.
-
Backer Rod Installation: We use appropriately sized backer rods to ensure the sealant bead is the correct depth and width for maximum durability.
-
Premium Sealants: We apply industry-leading polyurethane, silicone, or polysulfide sealants compatible with your specific brick or stone type.
Critical Warning: Never Caulk Steel Lintels!
A common mistake in DIY masonry is sealing the gap between the steel lintel (the beam above windows and doors) and the brickwork. At General Masonry Construction, we strictly advise against this.
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The Weep Space: This gap functions as a critical weep hole that allows condensation and moisture to escape your wall cavity.
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Rust Prevention: If this gap is blocked with caulk, water becomes trapped, leading to oxidation (rust). Over time, this causes the steel to fail and the masonry above to collapse.
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Our Solution: We ensure your lintels remain unblocked while providing professional waterproofing and flashing to keep the interior of your home dry.
Why Choose General Masonry Construction?
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20+ Years of Local Experience: Deeply familiar with the Northbrook (60062) area and the specific weather challenges facing Illinois properties.
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Winner of 10 Houzz Awards: Recognized for a decade of excellence in masonry restoration and customer service.
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Precision Sealant Application: We don’t just “patch” gaps; we restore the weather-tight seal of your entire building envelope.
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Fully Licensed & Insured: Your property is protected by a professional, BBB-accredited team.
Service Areas:
Northbrook: 60062, 60065, Glenview: 60025, 60026, Winnetka / Northfield: 60093, Wilmette: 60091, Glencoe: 60022, Highland Park: 60035, Lake Forest: 60045, Lake Bluff: 60044, Deerfield: 60015, Evanston: 60201, 60202, 60203, Chicago: 60085,
Contact General Masonry Construction for your 24-hour estimate!
Protect your masonry from water damage. Contact the experts in Northwest Chicago for a free evaluation:
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Phone:
847-317-0668