What to Ask About Masonry When Buying a House

When you're in the market for a new home, the last thing you want is to be surprised by costly repairs after closing. If the property features brick, stone, or blockwork, asking the right masonry questions during the buying process can help you avoid future headaches and ensure you're making a sound investment.

Why Masonry Matters in Home Buying

Masonry is a key component of a home’s structural integrity and insulation. Older homes, in particular, often feature historic brick or stone facades that require specific care. Whether it's a beautiful chimney, a solid foundation, or a charming brick exterior, masonry plays a major role in the value and safety of a home.

Key Questions to Ask About Masonry

When Was the Masonry Last Inspected?

Always ask when the last professional masonry inspection took place. Regular inspections help identify issues like cracking, water intrusion, or settling before they become expensive problems.

Follow-up Tip: Request the name of the contractor and ask for a copy of the report if one exists.

Are There Visible Cracks or Signs of Deterioration?

Not all cracks are cause for concern, but some are. Horizontal cracks, stair-step cracks in mortar joints, and bulging brickwork may indicate foundation issues or water damage.

Pro Tip: Bring a flashlight and check the basement or crawl space for efflorescence (white powdery stains), which signals moisture problems.

Has Any Masonry Been Repointed?

Repointing is the process of replacing old or damaged mortar joints. If repointing has been done recently, it can be a good sign that the home has been maintained. If not, ask whether it might be needed soon.

Watch Out: Poor repointing with the wrong mortar type (especially on historic homes) can cause more harm than good.

Is the Chimney in Good Shape?

Chimneys are one of the most common areas for masonry damage, particularly if they’ve been exposed to years of freeze-thaw cycles. Look for missing bricks, deteriorating mortar, and cracked crowns.

Additional Ask: Has the chimney been capped or waterproofed? These simple additions prevent long-term damage.

Are There Signs of Water Damage or Poor Drainage?

Water is masonry’s worst enemy. Check for spalling (flaking or chipping bricks), rust stains, and mold around the base of walls. Ask if the home has weep holes, flashing, and proper gutter systems in place to manage water flow.

Should You Hire a Masonry Company?

If the home’s value depends on the condition of its masonry, hiring a qualified mason or masonry restoration expert before closing can give you peace of mind. General home inspectors often don’t specialize in masonry and may miss subtle signs of deterioration.

Final Thoughts

When buying a house, it’s easy to focus on the kitchen layout or backyard size, but don’t overlook the walls holding it all together. Asking the right questions about masonry can protect your investment and save you from unexpected repair costs down the road.

Buying a home with beautiful masonry? Contact JMS Masonry & Restoration today for an inspection - you’ll thank yourself later.

If you’re buying a commercial property, check out our guide for questions to ask before buying a commercial building.