Historic Masonry Restoration in Greater Seattle
Historic masonry calls for a different approach. From repointing with compatible mortar to matching hard-to-find brick and rebuilding worn details, AB Masonry restores it with the patience and skill it takes to do it right.
WHAT IS HISTORIC MASONRY?
Historic masonry is brick, stone, and mortar work built with traditional materials and methods, usually on structures from before the 1940s. You’ll see it on older homes and chimneys, brick storefronts, churches, schools, and apartment buildings across Seattle and the Eastside. Much of it was laid entirely by hand, with brick fired in older kilns and mortar mixed right on site.
What makes it different is how it handles water. Older brick and lime-based mortar are softer and more porous than today’s materials, so the walls naturally take in a little moisture and let it dry back out. The mortar is meant to be the weaker part, wearing away slowly so the brick doesn’t have to. That’s actually a smart design: worn mortar joints can simply be renewed, while the original brick can last well over a century with the right care. When an old wall is patched with hard modern cement, that moisture gets trapped and the brick itself starts to crack and flake. That’s why historic repairs need to match the original materials, not just the color.
Preserving Your Home's History
We don’t patch over history. We restore it with the right materials, the right methods, and with the same care the original masons put in. Older brick and mortar are softer than today’s materials, so the wrong mortar or repair method can cause serious, costly damage down the road.
Repointing &
Mortar Matching
We carefully remove failing mortar by hand and repoint with a custom mix matched to the original in color, texture, and strength.
Brick & Stone
Replacement
We source salvaged or closely matched brick and stone so every repair blends in with the original masonry as closely as possible.
Chimneys &
Historic Details
We restore historic chimneys, arches, corbels, and decorative brickwork to bring back the original details that make your home unique.
Historic Restoration Services
Historic Brick Restoration
Many older homes and businesses in the Seattle area were built with soft, handmade brick that needs special care. We repair cracked and spalling brick, repoint worn joints with compatible mortar, and blend in salvaged or carefully matched replacements. The result is a repair that looks like it has always been there.
Historic Chimney Restoration
Older chimneys take the brunt of Pacific Northwest weather, and many show their age with crumbling mortar, damaged crowns, and loose brick. We restore historic chimneys with the care they deserve, rebuilding only what’s needed and preserving the original look so your chimney stays solid, beautiful, and true to your home’s character for years to come.
RESTORE OR REBUILD:
WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Our goal is always to save as much original masonry as we can. After inspecting your home, we’ll explain where restoration will work and where rebuilding makes more sense, so you can decide what’s right for your home.
Restoration
- Preserves original materials
- Keeps your home's historic character
- Repairs only what's needed
- Compatible, matched mortar
- Often more budget-friendly
- Honors the original craftsmanship
- Ideal when the structure is sound
Restoration is a great choice when your masonry is sound and you want to preserve as much of the original as possible.
Rebuild
- Renews badly deteriorated masonry
- Fixes deeper structural problems
- Salvaged or closely matched brick
- Recreates original details
- Corrects poor past repairs
- A fresh start for failing masonry
- Ideal when repairs are no longer enough
A rebuild is the best choice when masonry is too far gone to repair but you still want it to look original.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM AB MASONRY
Historic work rewards patience. We take time to assess and plan before any work starts, and keep you in the loop from the first visit to the final walkthrough.
Consultation
We look over your masonry, learn about your home’s history and goals, and talk through the best options for restoring it.
Detailed Estimate
Your estimate breaks down materials, labor, and restoration details, so you can plan your project with confidence.
Careful Restoration
Our masons protect your home, remove damaged material with care, then restore it with matched brick and mortar.
Final Walkthrough
We clean up thoroughly, walk through the finished work with you, and answer any final questions.
Historic Restoration Results
Drag the slider to compare this chimney before and after our restoration.
Before
After
Why Choose AB Masonry?
Crafting durable, high-precision masonry and restoration solutions built to stand the test of time.
Family-Owned & Operated
As a family-owned business built on two generations of masonry experience, we take pride in our craftsmanship, our reputation, and the relationships we build with homeowners throughout Greater Seattle.
50+ Years Repair & Restoration Experience
With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience, our team specializes in repairing and restoring brick, block, and stone masonry, from minor repairs to extensive structural rebuilds.
Restoration That Respects Your Home
We take the time to understand how your home was built, then restore it with the care and detail needed to preserve its character for years to come.
In Our Clients’ Words
See what homeowners have to say about the care we bring to older brick, chimneys, and original details.
They took on an extensive exterior brick project to restore our old brick home to its former glory… They have an incredible aesthetic sense, and are capable of doing period-appropriate work on older homes.
We just had the pleasure of AB Masonry repointing our 1916 clinker brick chimney in Wallingford… The crew was friendly, professional and did a great job.
Extremely knowledgeable, professional, reliable, and a pleasure to work with. Did a great job with my 1929 home in a tricky situation.
AB Masonry renovated our vintage brick walkway… with brick to match the original decor of the home. All our neighbors are jealous!
Aaron and his crew repaired my brick foundation and did a fantastic job… It's a perfect match to the original portions that we were able to save.
Historic Masonry Restoration FAQ
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes! Simply fill out our contact form with a brief description of your project and any photos you have. We’ll be in touch within 24-48 hours to discuss next steps and schedule a visit.
Why does historic masonry need special mortar?
Older brick is often softer than modern brick. Hard modern mortar can trap moisture and cause the brick to crack or spall over time, so we use a mortar mix that is compatible with your original masonry.
Can you match my existing brick and mortar?
Yes, most of the time. If your brick is no longer made, we find a close match or use salvaged brick and blend it in carefully. We’ll be upfront about how close a match is possible before we start.
How much does historic masonry restoration cost?
Cost depends on the size of the project, the condition of the masonry, and the materials needed to match the original. We’ll inspect your masonry for free and provide a detailed written quote.
How long does a historic restoration project take?
Smaller repairs are often finished quickly, while larger restorations can take longer depending on size, condition, and weather. We’ll give you a clear timeline before we start.
Do you restore historic chimneys?
Yes. We repair and rebuild older chimneys, including crowns, damaged brick, and worn mortar joints, while keeping the original look as much as possible.
Should I restore or rebuild my old masonry?
It depends on the condition. If the masonry is structurally sound, restoration usually makes the most sense. If it’s badly deteriorated, a rebuild with matched materials may be the better long-term option. We’ll give you an honest recommendation.
Can you fix past repairs that don't match?
Yes. We can remove poorly matched patches or hard mortar from past repairs and redo them with materials that better match your original masonry.
Can you clean old brick without damaging it?
Yes. We use gentle methods like low-pressure washing and cleaners suited to older masonry. We never sandblast historic brick, because it strips away the hard outer surface that protects it from the weather.
How do I know if my home has historic masonry?
Many homes built before the 1940s used softer brick and lime-based mortar that need a gentler approach. Handmade-looking brick, worn or recessed joints, and older chimneys are common signs. If you’re not sure, we’ll take a look and let you know.
Restoring Historic Masonry? We'd Love to Help.
Whether it’s a single chimney or a full exterior, we’re ready when you are.
Send us a few photos and details, and we’ll set up a free on-site visit.
