Masonry & Chimney Tips & Expert Advice

Practical advice on chimney care, masonry restoration, and protecting your home.

How Often Should You Have Your Chimney Swept and Inspected?
6/9/2026

How Often Should You Have Your Chimney Swept and Inspected?

An annual chimney inspection is one of the cheapest forms of home insurance there is. Here's how often your chimney really needs attention, what a sweep covers, and the warning signs you shouldn't ignore.

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Why Lime Mortar Matters for Historic Masonry Repointing
5/20/2026

Why Lime Mortar Matters for Historic Masonry Repointing

Using the wrong mortar on an old building can cause irreversible damage. Here's why lime mortar is essential for historic brick and stone, and what happens when masons reach for modern cement instead.

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Spotting Chimney Damage Before Winter: A Homeowner's Guide
4/15/2026

Spotting Chimney Damage Before Winter: A Homeowner's Guide

Connecticut winters are brutal on masonry. Here's how to inspect your chimney from the ground before the cold sets in, and which problems mean it's time to call a professional.

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Masonry & Chimney FAQs
6/9/2025

Masonry & Chimney FAQs

Answers to common questions about chimney restoration, stone foundation repair, historic preservation, and what to expect when working with a trusted masonry contractor.

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CT Foundation Failure Signs Every Homeowner Should Know
6/2/2025

CT Foundation Failure Signs Every Homeowner Should Know

Foundation problems rarely appear all at once. In Connecticut, where weather, soil, and older home construction all play a role, knowing the early warning signs helps you act fast.

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Historic Chimneys in New England's Old Homes
5/26/2025

Historic Chimneys in New England's Old Homes

Across New England, historic chimneys are more than architectural features—they are structural anchors, heating systems, and cultural artifacts all in one.

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Old Wethersfield, CT: A Historic District Built to Last
5/19/2025

Old Wethersfield, CT: A Historic District Built to Last

Settled in 1634, Old Wethersfield is one of New England's most beautifully preserved windows into early American life, with nearly four centuries of history along Main Street.

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Buttolph-Williams House: Preserving a First Period Home in CT
5/12/2025

Buttolph-Williams House: Preserving a First Period Home in CT

The Buttolph-Williams House of Old Wethersfield is one of Connecticut's most remarkable surviving examples of early colonial domestic architecture, built around 1711.

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Captain Daniel Francis & Historic Brick Homes of Wethersfield
5/5/2025

Captain Daniel Francis & Historic Brick Homes of Wethersfield

Old Wethersfield's 1803 Captain Daniel Francis house still stands as a testament to early American brick masonry and the care it takes to preserve a layered historic home.

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Built to Last: High-Quality Masonry for Commercial New Construction Projects
4/25/2025

Built to Last: High-Quality Masonry for Commercial New Construction Projects

On a new commercial build, masonry sets both the look and the structural integrity. Here's how high-quality brick, stone, and concrete are built to withstand the test of time.

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Bringing History Back to Life: What to Know About Restoring Masonry on Historic Homes
4/19/2025

Bringing History Back to Life: What to Know About Restoring Masonry on Historic Homes

Historic homes have a charm that can't be replicated, but their brick and stone deteriorate over time. Here's what masonry restoration involves and why it matters.

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Restoring the Legacy of the John Francis Tavern
4/15/2025

Restoring the Legacy of the John Francis Tavern

Across from Wethersfield Cove sits the John Francis Tavern, a brick home built in 1764. Our Historical Restoration Division is bringing this colonial landmark back to life.

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Essential Chimney Maintenance: Protecting Your Home Year-Round
3/24/2025

Essential Chimney Maintenance: Protecting Your Home Year-Round

Your chimney keeps your home safe, warm, and efficient, but it's easy to overlook until a problem arises. Regular maintenance prevents fire hazards and structural damage.

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Connecticut's Masonry Legacy: Restoring Historical Charm
3/23/2025

Connecticut's Masonry Legacy: Restoring Historical Charm

Connecticut's architectural history lives in its stone walls, brick homes, and colonial-era churches. Preserving these structures protects the story of the state's past.

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Historical Masonry in New England: Preserving the Craft
3/22/2025

Historical Masonry in New England: Preserving the Craft

New England's rich architectural heritage was built on the strength and durability of masonry. Preserving these historical structures safeguards the history and craftsmanship that shaped the region.

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The Importance of Waterproofing Your Masonry
2/5/2025

The Importance of Waterproofing Your Masonry

Water is one of the most destructive forces working against masonry. Professional waterproofing protects your structure, extends its lifespan, and preserves its beauty.

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5 Signs Your Chimney Needs Immediate Repair
2/3/2025

5 Signs Your Chimney Needs Immediate Repair

Your chimney vents smoke and gases safely from your home, but over time it can develop problems. Here are five warning signs that it needs immediate attention.

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Preserving New England's Architectural Charm
1/29/2025

Preserving New England's Architectural Charm

Explore the process and benefits of historic masonry restoration, and see how Champs Masonry brings new life to old structures while maintaining their historical integrity.

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