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Historic Salem Home Foundation Restoration
Historic Masonry Services for Your Salem Foundation
Home construction started in Salem in early 1600's with European settlers. Homes built in Salem Massachusetts from 1600's to early 1900's had a few things in common. They all used masonry, individually bonded units of stone or brick.
Another common thread was the use of lime mortar to bond the masonry together.
Lime mortar was used as a building material, waterproofer, insulator and a plaster throughout the homes. Lime mortar consisted of processed lime and sand. Early lime was imported before local production. The significance of lime mortar in foundations is that it contains no modern Portland cement. Only different degrees of washed sand, aggregates and lime. The lime contained rich calciums that would produce a strong bond when processed and mixed with sand. It also was breathable making it perfect for foundation construction.
Over time from 1600's to best case scenario early 1900's. Ground water washes out bonding agents in lime and foundation walls become dry and sandy. Dry and sandy foundation walls lead to loose stones or bricks, leaks, structural concerns and exterior foundation masonry cracking.
Stone or brick foundations were coated on the inside walls and maintained with lime mortar. Generally it took up to three coats to achieve a waterproof coating and avoid cracking and trapping moisture.
The practice of European white washing and maintenance of lime foundations has mostly been neglected as the world evolved. This forgotten practice has left local Salem foundations neglected leading to the need of repairs and restoration.
At Thompson Crowley Masonry we specialize in lime mortar restoration for three generations locally.
Our grandfather worked in Ireland and England with home construction commonly from 1400's to 1500's to modern era. The 1400's homes up to early 1900's in England were constructed with the common material of lime mortar.
Being skilled at the use of lime mortar and masonry our family's historic restoration business was born. At this time almost all jobs were word of mouth and our family became known for restoration.
For three generations we have worked locally restoring thousands of foundations with precision masonry and unmatched experience in foundation restoration business.
SALEM HISTORIC STONE FOUNDATION
AGED SALEM FOUNDATION
Aged foundation showing the absence of lime mortar coating. Mortar failure, brick spalling, loose masonry and leaks.
Salem Restored Foundation Wall
Foundation walls masonry completely repaired. Full re-pointing, brick repairs and base mortar coating with acrylic rendering for lasting restoration.
Waterproof Foundation Sealant
Salem foundation walls restored and waterproofed with period correct materials. Lime mortar and breathable sealant. Basement sealing and restoration of historic Salem home.