Parging Repair & Application Ontario
Repair cracked and flaking foundation parging across Ontario. Professional application creates smooth, durable finish. Proper preparation ensures long-lasting results.
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Parging Project Gallery
When Parging Needs Attention
What You'll Notice:
- •Surface flaking or peeling off the wall
- •Cracks letting water get behind the foundation
- •Uneven, patchy appearance
- •Hollow sound when you tap it
"Mike and Fabiano did a fantastic job on our foundation parging! They worked incredibly hard over three days and left the site in perfect condition."
- Sydney D.
Parging: From Traditional Craft to Modern Protection
Traditional Origins
Masons used lime-based mortars to cover rough stone foundations, creating smoother surfaces and better weather protection.
Ontario Climate Adaptation
In harsh climates, parging became essential for protecting concrete foundations from freeze-thaw damage.
Modern Innovation
Today's techniques combine traditional methods with Portland cement and polymer additives for superior durability.
What is Parging?
Parging is a thin coat of mortar applied to foundation walls and concrete blocks. It protects against moisture and improves appearance—turning rough concrete into a smooth, finished surface.
Parging Materials and Composition
Traditional parging consists of carefully balanced materials that work together to create a durable, protective coating:
Core Materials:
- Portland cement
- Hydrated lime
- Fine sand
- Water
- Polymer additives (modern applications)
Typical Mix Ratio:
- • 1 part Portland cement
- • 2-3 parts fine sand
- • Hydrated lime for workability
- • Water to achieve proper consistency
- • Modern polymer additives for enhanced performance
Energy Efficiency Benefits
Parging provides thermal insulation properties that help reduce heat loss through foundation walls. While not a primary insulation method, it creates an additional barrier that can:
- • Reduce air infiltration around foundation edges
- • Create thermal mass that moderates temperature swings
- • Improve overall building envelope performance
- • Complement proper basement insulation systems
Parging vs Stucco: Key Differences
Parging
- • Applied to foundation walls and concrete blocks
- • Thin application (3-6mm)
- • Cement-based mortar mix
- • Below-grade and foundation use
- • Weather protection focus
- • Smooth or lightly textured finish
- • Direct application to substrate
Stucco
- • Applied to above-grade walls
- • Thicker system (15-25mm)
- • Multiple layers with mesh reinforcement
- • Full exterior cladding system
- • Architectural finish focus
- • Various decorative textures available
- • Requires proper substrate preparation
When to Choose Which
Choose parging for foundation walls, basement exteriors, and concrete block protection.Choose stucco for above-grade exterior walls where you want a decorative finish system.
Types of Parging Applications
Applied to foundation walls to create a moisture barrier and protect against weather damage
Common Applications:
- •Foundation walls
- •Basement exteriors
- •Concrete block structures
Textured finishes that enhance appearance while providing protection
Common Applications:
- •Feature walls
- •Architectural details
- •Garden walls
Restoration of existing parging to address cracks, chips, or deterioration
Common Applications:
- •Crack repair
- •Patch work
- •Maintenance coating
Ontario Climate Factors
Ontario's variable climate creates unique challenges for parging:
- • Freeze-thaw cycles: Rapid temperature changes can crack improperly applied parging
- • Spring application: Best timing after ground thaws but before hot summer
- • Fall preparation: Last chance before winter to protect foundations
- • Winter limitations: No application below 5°C or when freezing expected
Decorative Parging & Mix Variations
Decorative Finishes
- • Smooth finish: Clean, modern appearance for contemporary homes
- • Light texture: Subtle patterns using brushes or sponges
- • Stamped patterns: Brick or stone textures for visual interest
- • Coloured parging: Integral colour additives for custom appearance
- • Exposed aggregate: Reveals sand particles for textured look
Specialized Mix Options
- • Standard mix: Portland cement, lime, sand, water
- • Polymer-modified: Enhanced adhesion and flexibility
- • Fibre-reinforced: Synthetic fibres reduce cracking
- • Quick-set formula: Faster curing for urgent repairs
- • Winter blend: Cold-weather additives for extended season
Tools & Equipment for Quality Application
Preparation Tools:
- • Wire brushes
- • Pressure washer
- • Crack repair tools
- • Bonding agents
Application Tools:
- • Hawks and trowels
- • Floats (wood, plastic, steel)
- • Brushes for texture
- • Spray bottles for misting
Finishing Tools:
- • Sponges and rags
- • Edging tools
- • Texture rollers
- • Protective coverings
Benefits of Professional Parging
Foundation protection from moisture
Improved curb appeal and appearance
Weather and freeze-thaw resistance
Crack prevention and structural support
Enhanced moisture barrier
Cost-effective foundation enhancement
Thermal insulation properties
Extended foundation lifespan
Protect Your Foundation Walls
Get a clear scope, real numbers, and no surprise add-ons for your parging project.
Get Your Parging Quote
Answer a couple of quick questions to get a personalized estimate
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Why Choose Fix My Brick
Clean & Careful
We protect landscaping and surfaces, then clean daily. No mess left behind.
On Time
A clear schedule and a finish date you can plan around.
Straight Quotes
On-site assessments, real numbers, and no surprise add-ons.
How We Handle Your Parging
Prep Properly
Clean surface, fix cracks, ensure good bonding
Apply Durable Coat
Right thickness, smooth application, consistent texture
Clean Finish
Protect while curing, clean up completely
"The crew was fast and efficient and repaired the parging around my house in 2 days. Very happy with the quality and look of the work." - Gerald S.
Common Parging Issues and Solutions
Common Causes:
- •Poor surface preparation
- •Freeze-thaw cycles
- •Structural movement
- •Improper mixing ratios
Prevention:
Proper surface prep, quality materials, and appropriate application timing
Common Causes:
- •Dirty or damp surfaces
- •Incorrect mix consistency
- •Extreme weather conditions
Prevention:
Clean, dry surfaces and optimal weather conditions for application
Common Causes:
- •Cracks in parging
- •Inadequate thickness
- •Poor drainage around foundation
Prevention:
Regular inspection, proper drainage, and timely crack repair
Common Causes:
- •Inconsistent mixing
- •Different curing conditions
- •Varying water content
Prevention:
Consistent mixing procedures and uniform application conditions
Parging Maintenance and Lifespan
Expected Lifespan
15-25 years with proper maintenance
Inspection Schedule
Annual visual inspection, detailed check every 3-5 years
Preventive Care
- Keep foundation drainage clear
- Address cracks promptly
- Avoid impact damage
- Maintain proper grading
Warning Signs to Watch For
- ⚠️Small cracks appearing
- ⚠️Flaking or chipping
- ⚠️Discoloration or staining
- ⚠️Hollow sounds when tapped
Note: Early detection and repair can prevent larger, more expensive problems. Contact professionals when you notice any of these warning signs.
Don't Wait for Bigger Problems
Early repairs cost less and protect your foundation better. We'll assess your parging and give you a clear plan.
Parging: What Affects Cost
- Surface size and condition (prep, patching, skim vs. full coat)
- Access and protection (landscaping, walkways, temporary barriers)
- Finish texture and color requirements
- Moisture issues requiring drainage or waterproofing tie‑ins
- Season and curing protection (winter/heavy rain)
- Number of elevations and return corners
Typical Project Profiles
Touch‑Up Skim
Localized repairs, edge feathering, and texture blend.
Partial Elevation
Multiple areas with prep, crack treatment, and uniform finish.
Full Elevation
Comprehensive re‑parging with moisture management and protection.
What Your Quote Includes
- On‑site assessment, photos, and a clear written scope
- Surface prep, crack treatment, and finish texture plan
- Site protection, cleanup, and workmanship coverage
Ways To Keep Costs Down
- Address early—flaking and moisture make prep more involved
- Bundle adjacent elevations to reduce mobilization
- Ensure clear access and remove fragile items near work areas
We’ll inspect your foundation surfaces, confirm the right prep and finish, and provide a fixed written plan for your home.
How to Prepare for Your Estimate
- Clear 2–3 feet around foundation walls where possible.
- Note areas with flaking, staining, or recent leaks.
- Share HOA/permit requirements, if applicable.
- Ensure driveway/parking access for crews and materials.
Red Flags Not to Ignore
- Hollow‑sounding or loose parging sections.
- Vertical moisture staining or efflorescence lines.
- Parging buried by soil or mulch (traps moisture).
- Exposed foam/insulation where parging has failed.
Nearby Locations
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Frequently Asked Questions
Parging consists of Portland cement, hydrated lime, fine sand, and water. Modern applications often include polymer additives to improve adhesion and flexibility. The typical ratio is approximately 1 part cement, 2-3 parts sand, with lime added for workability.
Quality parging typically lasts 15-25 years with proper application and maintenance. Lifespan depends on climate conditions, foundation movement, drainage, and the quality of initial installation.
While possible, parging requires specific skills for surface preparation, proper mixing, and application technique. Poor DIY application often leads to adhesion problems, cracking, and moisture issues. Professional application ensures proper materials, technique, and longevity.
Common causes include freeze-thaw cycles, foundation settlement, poor surface preparation, incorrect mix ratios, and rapid drying. Ontario's climate makes proper application timing and quality materials essential for crack prevention.
Replace parging when you notice widespread cracking, large areas flaking off, hollow sounds when tapped, or visible moisture penetration. Small cracks can often be repaired, but extensive damage requires complete renewal.
Parging provides moisture resistance but is not a complete waterproofing solution. It helps shed water and reduces moisture penetration, but foundations with significant water issues may require additional waterproofing measures.
Yes, parging can include various textures and finishes for decorative appeal. Options include smooth, textured, stamped patterns, or colored additives. Decorative parging combines protection with enhanced curb appeal.
Parging is typically applied to foundation walls and concrete blocks in thin coats (3-6mm), while stucco is a thicker coating system (15-25mm) used on above-grade walls. Stucco often includes multiple layers and mesh reinforcement.
Annual visual inspections, prompt crack repair, maintaining proper drainage around foundations, and avoiding impact damage. Clean gutters and ensure water flows away from the foundation to prevent moisture-related deterioration.
Parging should not be applied when temperatures are below 5°C or when freezing is expected within 24 hours. Cold weather can prevent proper curing and cause frost damage. Spring and fall are optimal application seasons in Ontario.
Typical parging thickness ranges from 3-6mm (1/8 to 1/4 inch). Thicker applications may crack due to shrinkage, while thinner coats may not provide adequate protection. Professional assessment determines optimal thickness for each situation.
Surface must be clean, sound, and slightly damp. Remove loose material, repair cracks, clean with wire brush or pressure wash, and apply bonding agent if needed. Proper preparation is crucial for long-lasting adhesion.
Ready for that clean, protective finish?
We'll inspect your foundation surfaces, confirm the right prep and finish, and provide a clear scope with real numbers.
info@fixmybrick.ca • Serving the GTA and surrounding areas