What Is Masonry? A Homeowner’s Guide to Brick, Stone, and Mortar Work
The answer to what masonry is: Masonry is the building craft of constructing structures from individual units such as brick, stone, or concrete block bonded together with mortar. It is valued for being strong, non-combustible, and long-lasting, which is why it is used for chimneys, fireplaces, and exterior walls. Masonry surrounds you at home. Your […]
HOW TO APPLY MASONRY SEALER: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE FOR BRICK & STONE HOMES
To apply masonry sealer, first clean and fully dry the brick or stone. Then spray a breathable, penetrating sealer with a low-pressure sprayer, working from the bottom up until the surface is saturated. Brush out any drips, then add a second coat if needed. Brick and stone are porous, so they soak up water that […]
Chimney Crown Repair Waterproofer: What It Is, When You Need It, and How It Works
A chimney crown repair waterproofer is a flexible, elastomeric coating applied to a cracked or aging chimney crown. It seals surface voids, bonds to masonry, and creates a vapor-permeable waterproof barrier that blocks rain and ice while allowing trapped moisture to escape. Professionally applied, it costs $175–$900 and lasts 10–15 years. A cracked chimney crown […]
How Much Does a Chimney Cap Cost in 2026? (Complete Price Guide for Georgia Homeowners)
A chimney cap costs $200 to $850 installed in 2026, depending on material, flue size, and chimney configuration. Most Georgia homeowners spend $250 to $500 for a stainless steel cap on a single-flue masonry chimney, including professional labor. Chimney cap costs catch most Georgia homeowners off guard, either because they waited too long, bought the […]
How Often Should You Have Your Chimney Cleaned? (The Complete 2026 Guide)
The answer to how often you should have your chimney cleaned is: at least once per year for all chimney types. Wood-burning fireplaces used three or more times per week need cleaning every six months. Gas chimneys require annual inspections even without visible soot. The NFPA and CSIA both recommend this minimum schedule. Chimney fires […]
How to Install a Chimney Cap: A Step-by-Step Guide from Georgia’s Certified Chimney Pros (2026)
To install a chimney cap, measure your flue, choose a stainless steel cap, safely access the roof, clean the flue surface, set the cap in place, and secure it with stainless self-tapping screws or anchor bolts. Most single-flue installs take 30 to 60 minutes. Georgia winters crack masonry. Atlanta’s humidity rusts unprotected metal. If you […]
How Much Does Chimney Relining Cost in Georgia? (2026 Pricing Guide for Newnan & Atlanta Homeowners)
Chimney relining cost in Georgia ranges from $1,800 to $6,500 in 2026. Most Newnan, Marietta, and Atlanta homeowners pay $2,800 to $3,500 for a stainless steel reline. Final pricing depends on liner material, chimney height, and any required masonry repairs before installation. Online estimates swing from $625 to $7,000, leaving Georgia homeowners with no real […]
How to Adjust a Gas Pressure Regulator on a Fireplace: A Step-by-Step Pro Guide (2026)
To adjust a gas pressure regulator on a fireplace, shut off the gas, connect a manometer to the outlet test port, then light the unit. Remove the regulator cap and turn the adjustment screw two turns at a time. Clockwise raises pressure; counterclockwise lowers it. This pro guide from Archer Chimneys & Exteriors in Newnan, […]
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Gas Fireplace in Georgia? (2026 Newnan & Marietta Pricing Guide)
The cost to install a gas fireplace in Georgia ranges from $2,200 to $12,000 in 2026. Gas log sets start at $1,200, vent-free units run $2,200 to $4,500, gas inserts cost $2,800 to $6,000, and full direct-vent installs reach $4,500 to $12,000. Final price depends on venting, gas line work, and finishes. Most online cost […]
How to Repair Cracks in Brick Mortar: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners
To repair cracks in brick mortar: remove damaged mortar to at least 1/2-inch depth, clean the joint, dampen the brick, apply the correct mortar type, and tool the joint smooth. Allow 24–48 hours to cure. For fireplace cracks, always use refractory mortar rated for high heat. Cracked brick mortar is one of the most common […]