What It Takes to Match Brick in Boston’s Old Buildings

From cobblestone streets and gas-lit lanterns to the iconic brick buildings that tell stories of centuries past, Boston’s charm lies in its history. But preserving that character takes more than patching a wall or replacing damaged brick. At JMS Masonry, brick matching is both a science and an art - one that’s essential to keeping Boston’s buildings timeless, functional, and beautiful.

Why Brick Matching Matters

Poorly Matched Brick Can Lead to Problems

At first glance, mismatched brick might seem like a cosmetic issue. But poorly matched repairs can lead to bigger problems over time. Different bricks expand and weather differently. A patch of newer, harder brick may resist water differently than surrounding materials, which can cause cracking, moisture retention, or even structural shifts. Matching ensures your repair blends in and holds up.

Following Boston’s Preservation Guidelines

In historic neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, the South End, and Back Bay, preservation boards often require masonry repairs to match original materials. That’s where JMS Masonry comes in. We don’t just fix the problem, we bring it back to code and character. Our work aligns with Boston’s strict preservation guidelines while also meeting modern durability standards.

How We Match Old Brick

Analyzing the Original Brick

No two bricks are exactly alike. Clay content, firing temperature, and even the way a brick was cooled centuries ago all affect color and texture. We start by analyzing the existing wall: Is it handmade or machine-pressed? What minerals are visible? Has the color changed due to pollution or weathering?

From there, we source reclaimed brick or custom-fabricate new pieces to get the closest match possible - not just in color, but in size, density, and finish.

Matching the Mortar

You can match the brick perfectly, but if the mortar’s off, the patch will stand out like a sore thumb. Older buildings often used lime-based mortar, which is softer and more breathable than modern cement-based mixes. Using the wrong mortar can cause the original brick to crumble over time.

We test and recreate mortar blends that align with the original structure. Our goal is a seamless finish that supports the wall.

Our Preservation Expertise

At JMS Masonry, our team has spent years working on historic brownstones, municipal buildings, schools, and more throughout Greater Boston. We understand the responsibility that comes with touching these structures.

Whether you’re restoring a façade or repairing damage, you can trust that we’ll treat your project with the care and craftsmanship it deserves.

Let’s Bring Your Old Boston Building Back to Life

If you're a homeowner, property manager, or architect working on a historic property, don’t leave repairs to chance. Our brick matching process ensures your building doesn’t lose its character or its integrity.

Contact JMS Masonry today to schedule a site visit and learn how we can restore your property the right way.