Masonry
Exterior masonry serves as a durable and visually appealing solution for cladding homes, offering protection against elements while enhancing architectural style. Common materials include brick, stone, and engineered masonry products, which provide excellent strength, insulation, and weather resistance.
Warrantability
Alberta New Home Warranty Standards:
- 1-Year Warranty: Exterior masonry is covered for one year under the materials and workmanship warranty which covers defects such as masonry falling off, mortar cracking, or material failures within the first year.
- Deficiencies in aesthetic features, like surface variations or stains, are excluded unless they impair masonry performance.
Builder’s Warranty:
- 1-Year Warranty: Builders cover defects in masonry installation and workmanship for one year under their standard warranty. Examples include poorly applied mortar, and misaligned bricks or stones.
- Maintenance-related issues, such as staining or efflorescence, are typically excluded.
Manufacturer’s Warranty:
- Manufacturers of masonry products (e.g., structural brick, engineered stone veneer) may provide warranties ranging from 10–25 years. These warranties typically cover material defects such as premature cracking, material degradation, or coloration defects.
- Damage caused by improper installation, lack of maintenance, or environmental exposure is excluded.
Maintenance
Perform inspections annually for cracks, erosion, or water infiltration. Pressure wash masonry surfaces bi-annually to clean dirt and debris.
Steps:
- Inspect the surface thoroughly for visible cracks, white residue (efflorescence), or loose bricks/stones.
- Use a pressure washer on a low setting to remove surface dirt and stains. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that could degrade mortar.
- Apply a masonry or waterproofing sealant every 3–5 years to preserve its integrity and complete waterproofing.
- Repair or secure downspouts and gutters to prevent water from pooling or damaging the masonry.
Materials Needed
Pressure washer, masonry sealant, soft brush, and masonry-safe cleaner for efflorescence or tough stains.
Common Issues, Warrantability, and Repair Solutions
1. Cracks in Masonry or Mortar Joints
Warrantability:
- 1-Year Builder’s Warranty: Covered for one year for defects in workmanship, such as improperly mixed or applied mortar.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty (Varies): Material defects causing masonry cracking may be covered but cracks due to settling or poor installation are excluded.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty: Contact serviceQ to evaluate and repair cracks.
- If Outside Warranty: Engage a professional mason to repair failing mortar joints and replace damaged masonry units.
2. Efflorescence (White Residue)
Warrantability:
- 1-Year Builder’s Warranty: Excluded unless directly caused by faulty mortar or installation.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: Excluded, as efflorescence typically results from environmental moisture rather than defective materials.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty: Contact serviceQ to assess and provide insight into potential DIY solutions.
- If Outside Warranty: Clean the surface with a soft brush and apply a mild vinegar solution to dissolve surface salts. Rinse thoroughly and reseal the area. Professional: Consult a mason to address persistent water infiltration or drainage issues contributing to efflorescence.
3. Loose Masonry Units (Bricks or Stones)
Warrantability:
- 1-Year Builder’s Warranty: Replacement will be covered if loose units are caused by defective installation techniques or materials.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty (Varies): Rarely applies unless the loosening is caused by defective masonry products.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty: Contact serviceQ to investigate and repair loose bricks or stones.
- If Outside Warranty: Hire a mason to re-secure or replace the loose masonry units and repair failing mortar joints.
4. Penetration Through Masonry
Warrantability:
- 1-Year Builder’s Warranty: If caused by improper installation or flashing issues.
- 5-Year Envelope Warranty: Covered for five years under the building envelope warranty if the water penetration is linked to deficiencies in the masonry installation.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: Excluded unless the product itself (e.g., engineered stone veneer) is defective.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty: Contact serviceQ for evaluation and repairs, including flashing or mortar joint remediation.
- If Outside Warranty: Engage a contractor to seal mortar joints, replace flashing, and apply masonry waterproofing as needed.
5. Discoloration or Staining
Warrantability:
- 1-Year Builder’s Warranty: Excluded unless caused by improper installation or material deficiencies.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: Excluded, unless the masonry product itself prematurely discolors due to material faults.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty: Contact serviceQ to assess and provide insight into potential DIY solutions.
- If Outside Warranty: Clean with a masonry-safe cleaner or mild detergent. Apply masonry sealant after cleaning to minimize future staining. Professional: Hire specialists for deep cleaning and resealing of masonry if the staining persists.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, technical, or warranty advice and Qualico and its affiliated companies make no warranty whatsoever with respect to such information, including (but not limited to) for fitness for a particular purpose. Product warranties are governed by manufacturers’ terms and conditions, and proper maintenance is required to uphold functionality and coverage. Qualico and its affiliated companies are not liable for any injury (personal or otherwise), harm, personal damage, or property damage caused by (i) the use or misuse of, (ii) neglect related to, or (iii) unforeseen events related to, the information provided above. For specific warranty and maintenance details, please refer to the manufacturer’s documentation.
