Masonry Waterproofing

Protecting Chicago Brick

Chicago's iconic brick, limestone, and masonry facades face relentless assault from freeze-thaw cycles, lake-effect moisture, and urban pollution. When water penetrates porous masonry and freezes, it expands—spalling faces off brick, crumbling mortar joints, and creating pathways for even more water intrusion. Left untreated, a beautiful historic facade can deteriorate into a crumbling liability within a decade.

We apply professional-grade silane-siloxane penetrating sealers that absorb deep into masonry pores, chemically bonding to create invisible water barriers while maintaining the breathability that prevents trapped moisture damage. Before sealing, we complete any necessary tuckpointing and re-caulk wall penetrations—addressing existing damage before locking in protection. For new masonry construction, we build with proper flashing, weep holes, and drainage details that prevent water problems from the start.

Protected masonry dramatically reduces freeze-thaw damage, resists efflorescence staining, and prevents the biological growth that commonly affects lakefront and North Side buildings. A properly sealed facade maintains its appearance and structural integrity for five to ten years between applications—a small investment against the cost of masonry replacement.