Masonry Glossary
Quick reference guide to common masonry terms. Understand the language used in quotes, repair recommendations, and technical documentation.
A
Aggregate
Sand, gravel, or crushed stone mixed with cement and water to make concrete or mortar. The type and size of aggregate affects strength and workability.
Anchors
Metal ties or fasteners that connect masonry to structural framing or other building components. Essential for stability, especially in veneer walls.
B
Bed Joint
The horizontal mortar joint between courses (rows) of brick or stone. Bed joints carry the weight of the masonry above.
Bond
The pattern in which bricks or stones are laid. Common bonds include running bond, Flemish bond, and English bond. Also refers to the adhesion between mortar and masonry units.
Brick Ties
Metal connectors that link brick veneer to the structural wall behind it. Corroded or missing ties can cause bowing and instability.
C
Capillary Action
The movement of water through tiny pores in masonry. Can draw moisture upward from ground contact or inward through cracked mortar.
Chimney Cap
A protective cover installed at the top of a chimney to prevent rain, snow, animals, and debris from entering. Extends chimney lifespan.
Chimney cap installationCourse
A horizontal row of bricks or stones in a wall. Counting courses helps estimate repair extent and material needs.
Cracking
Fractures in brick, stone, or mortar caused by settling, freeze-thaw cycles, moisture expansion, or structural movement. Diagonal cracks often indicate foundation issues.
D
Damp Proof Course (DPC)
A waterproof layer installed in masonry walls to prevent rising damp from the ground. Common in older Ontario homes.
Deterioration
The gradual breakdown of masonry materials due to weathering, moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, or chemical reactions. Requires intervention to prevent structural damage.
E
Efflorescence
White, powdery salt deposits that appear on brick or stone surfaces. Caused by water moving through masonry and evaporating, leaving minerals behind. Usually cosmetic but indicates moisture issues.
Expansion Joint
A designed gap in masonry that allows for thermal expansion and contraction. Prevents cracking from temperature changes. Filled with flexible sealant.
F
Flashing
Sheet metal or waterproof membrane installed at vulnerable areas (chimneys, windows, roof lines) to direct water away from the building. Failed flashing is a common cause of leaks.
Chimney flashing repairsFreeze-Thaw Damage
Deterioration caused by water freezing inside masonry pores, expanding, and causing cracking or spalling. A major concern in Ontario winters.
H
Head Joint
The vertical mortar joint between individual bricks or stones in the same course. Also called a perpendicular joint.
Heritage Masonry
Historic brickwork or stonework, often requiring specialized restoration techniques and period-appropriate materials to preserve character and comply with heritage regulations.
Heritage restoration servicesJ
Joint
The space between bricks or stones filled with mortar. Proper joint depth and profile are critical for weather resistance.
Jointing
The process of finishing mortar joints while still workable. Common profiles include flush, concave, struck, and weathered joints.
L
Lime Mortar
Traditional mortar made with lime instead of Portland cement. More flexible and breathable than modern mortars. Required for heritage masonry to prevent damage.
Traditional lime mortarLintel
A horizontal support (steel, stone, or concrete) above windows, doors, or openings. Distributes the weight of the masonry above.
M
Mortar
The mixture of cement, sand, and water used to bond bricks or stones together. Different mortar types (N, S, M, O) have varying strength and flexibility.
Mortar Joint
The space between masonry units filled with mortar. Protects against water infiltration and provides structural continuity.
P
Parging
A thin cement coating applied to foundation walls for protection and aesthetics. Common on concrete block foundations in Ontario. Cracks and flaking require repair to prevent water damage.
Parging servicesPointing
The process of filling mortar joints in new masonry construction. See also tuckpointing (repair) and repointing (restoration).
Portland Cement
The most common type of cement used in modern mortar. Stronger and less permeable than lime-based mortars. Not suitable for heritage masonry.
R
Repointing
Removing deteriorated mortar from joints and replacing it with fresh mortar. Restores structural integrity and weather resistance. Often used interchangeably with tuckpointing.
Tuckpointing servicesRetaining Wall
A wall designed to hold back soil on a slope or grade change. Requires proper drainage and structural design to prevent failure.
S
Spalling
Surface flaking or peeling of brick or stone, usually caused by freeze-thaw damage or moisture trapped behind the face. Weakens masonry and worsens if not repaired.
Brick repair servicesStruck Joint
A mortar joint finished by angling the trowel upward, creating a recessed bottom edge. Not recommended for horizontal surfaces as it collects water.
T
Tuckpointing
The process of removing old, damaged mortar from joints and replacing it with new mortar. Prevents water infiltration and restores structural integrity. Essential maintenance for Ontario masonry.
Tuckpointing servicesType N Mortar
Medium-strength mortar suitable for most above-grade residential applications. Good balance of strength and workability.
V
Veneer
A non-structural layer of brick or stone applied to the exterior of a building for appearance. Anchored to the structural wall behind it.
W
Weep Holes
Small openings at the base of brick veneer walls that allow trapped moisture to drain out. Prevents water damage and freeze-thaw issues. Should never be blocked.
Wythe
A single vertical thickness of masonry. A double-wythe wall has two layers of brick with an air gap or cavity between them.
Still Have Questions?
Our glossary covers common masonry terms, but every project is unique. If you're unsure about terminology in a quote or need clarification on repair recommendations, we're happy to explain.