All Things Masonry

In 2024, Lennox Masonry restored the city hall in Duncan, BC using traditional lime-based mortars. In this blog post, Lennox Masonry of Victoria, BC discusses the necessity of matching old lime-based mortars when restoring historical and heritage masonry buildings Restoring heritage masonry buildings is not only about maintaining their aesthetic appeal—it’s about preserving their history, structural integrity, and ensuring they stand for generations to come. One of the most critical elements in achieving this is the use of traditional lime-based mortars. Here’s why they matter so much in heritage restoration: Breathability and Moisture Management Lime mortars are naturally breathable, allowing moisture to escape from the masonry. This breathability prevents moisture from becoming trapped within the walls, which can lead to deterioration of both the mortar and masonry units, creating structural damage. Cement-based mortars, by contrast, are much less permeable and tend to trap moisture—often worsening the very problems restoration seeks to solve. Lime mortar is elastic and thus flexible, which allows it to accommodate for large and slight movements in the masonry structure, recombining when needed through a self-healing process. This characteristic is paramount when it comes to the preservation of heritage structures, as it helps eliminate moisture-related issues that are introduced into the building once gaps in the masonry start forming. This brings us to our next point... Flexibility and Accommodation of Movement Historic masonry buildings often settle and move slightly over time due to changing temperatures, moisture, or shifts in their foundations. Lime mortar’s flexibility allows it to accommodate minor movements without cracking, protecting both the mortar and the surrounding masonry units. Modern mortars, which are rigid and hard, can crack and cause further damage to the historic stone or brick. Compatibility with Historic Materials Most heritage masonry buildings were originally constructed with lime-based mortars. Using traditional lime mortars for restoration maintains the building’s authenticity, ensuring that repairs are compatible with the original structure. This prevents damage from incompatible materials, such as Portland cement, which can be too hard and impermeable for older masonry. The key here is to ensure that the mortar is going to expand and contract during the freeze and thaw cycles at the same rate in relation to the surrounding stone and/or brick. This can only happen if the same mortar is being utilized. Reversibility and Conservation Principles Lime mortars can be removed without damaging the original stone or brick due to their soft character, even after years of compression. The use of conservation-friendly tools are also necessary during the repointing process. Using lime-based mortars while repointing heritage masonry structures aligns with the principles of conservation, allowing future repairs without harming the historic fabric. Aesthetics and Authenticity Authentic restoration requires materials and techniques that reflect the original construction. Lime mortars offer a natural, historic appearance, blending seamlessly with traditional stonework and maintaining your building’s character. When done properly, repointing or even rebuilding certain aspects of heritage masonry buildings can appear seamless from the old to the new. Sustainability and Environmental Impact Lime-based mortars are produced with not only a lower carbon footprint compared to modern cement, but are actually carbon-negative. During the setting process, lime mortars reabsorb the carbon dioxide produced during their creation. They’re also biodegradable and made from natural, renewable materials—making them an excellent choice for responsible restoration. Self-Healing Properties Lime mortar can self-heal small cracks due to its slightly water-soluble nature, which allows it to reseal hairline fissures over time. This unique property helps prolong the life and durability of heritage masonry walls. Avoiding Common Restoration Mistakes The use of modern cement mortars in historic buildings can lead to a host of problems, including trapped moisture, accelerated decay, and irreversible damage. Modern mortars are too hard for traditional masonry—original bricks or stones can break before the mortar does, leading to costly repairs and lost heritage value. Conclusion For anyone involved in the restoration of heritage masonry buildings—whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or conservationist—traditional lime-based mortars should always be your first choice. Their breathability, flexibility, compatibility, and sustainability not only preserve the structural and aesthetic integrity of your building, but also honor its history. By choosing lime-based mortars, you’re investing in the longevity, authenticity, and environmental stewardship of Canada’s architectural heritage. If your project needs guidance or hands-on expertise, Lennox Masonry is passionate about restoring heritage buildings the right way—using time-tested materials that let your building breathe and endure. With dozens of completed heritage masonry projects throughout Victoria, BC and Duncan, BC, we are a trusted, professional, and knowledgeable masonry company when it comes to the conservation of masonry buildings.. Preserve the past. Build for the future. Choose lime Lennox Masonry of Victoria, BC has been proudly serving both Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands for over a decade. We are small group of skilled masons with a great deal of passion towards our trade and for improving the communities we live and work in. We extend our gratitude to the lək̓ʷəŋən people for allowing us to share and work on this corner of the garden with them. We are thankful for the residents and businesses of Victoria, BC for supporting us in our endeavors! If you’re in need of a professional and reliable masonry company for your next project, please contact us  today! And check out our Project page  for inspiration when it comes to your next masonry idea!

What to look for in a masonry company for your next project: A stone staircase in Victoria, BC built by Lennox Masonry out of blast-rock that was sourced on the property and flagstones that were quarried in Port Renfrew, BC. Choosing the right masonry contractor is a critical step to ensuring the desired outcome and durability of your project. Victoria, BC is home to a variety of highly skilled and adept stonemasons and bricklayers who are more than capable of helping you address your needs. That being said, here's what you should know before contacting and hiring a mason: Look for experience and expertise: Research the masonry companies in your area and see how many years of hands-on experience they have in the specific field of work your project entails. Masonry has many facets to it, such as bricklaying, stonemasonry, restoration, chimney repairs, hardscaping, fireplace conversions, etc.. So it's important to understand which masonry contractors have experience that is relevant to your project. Be sure to review their portfolio of completed projects and see if there are any that are similar to yours. If so, pay attention to the workmanship and the minute details. A heritage chimney that was demolished and rebuilt by Lennox Masonry in Victoria, BC to match the original chimney from 1912. Licensed, Certified, and Insured: Don't be afraid to ask for a business license, certification, proof of liability insurance, and their standing with the Workers Compensation Board. Companies that can provide these documents will signal a degree of professionalism and adherence to industry protocols and standards. Without these certificates, you, as a homeowner or business owner, could be held liable if any accidents occur while work is being conducted on your property. Reputation & Reviews: Peruse each masonry contractors online reviews through Google, Yelp, Houzz, BBB, Facebook and other online platforms. Ask them if they're willing to share the contact details of previous clients that they have worked with or if they can provide an address of a completed project that you can view. Communication & Service: Take note of how each company communicates with you from the initial phone call or email to the first in-person meeting. Are they timely, clear, and concise? Or are they slow, vague, and impersonal? Ask questions and gauge for yourself whether or not they seem confident in their answers. Once a proposal has been presented to you, ensure that the scope of work and the terms/conditions are well defined and specific. The 2025 Houzz awards presented to Lennox Masonry of Victoria, BC Small Companies Vs. Large Companies: Bigger isn't always better as they say! Large masonry companies are typically suited towards sizeable commercial projects which focus on quantity and quick output. Reality is that quality takes a backseat for the most part on large commercial and residential projects such as townhomes, condominiums, and apartment complexes. Small masonry companies are typically suited towards residential projects on single-family homes, working directly for homeowners and contractors. With small masonry companies, the owner is usually hands-on while designing and building the project, paying close attention to the finer details. The benefit of working with an owner/operator is that they aren't a step removed from the project and their reputation is directly on the line. This can equate to receiving the best possible workmanship and service. Sean Lennox of Lennox Masonry building a stone step in Victoria, BC Conclusion: Picking the right masonry contractor in Victoria, BC for your next project doesn't have to be an arduous process. Focus on both online and word-of-mouth reviews as well as communication skills with whatever companies you're considering. Pay attention to their project portfolios and above all... trust your gut! Lennox Masonry of Victoria, BC has been proudly serving both Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands for over a decade. We are small group of skilled masons with a great deal of passion towards our trade and for improving the communities we live and work in. We extend our gratitude to the lək̓ʷəŋən people for allowing us to share and work on this corner of the garden with them. We are thankful for the residents and businesses of Victoria, BC for supporting us in our endeavors! If you’re in need of a professional and reliable masonry company for your next project, please contact us  today! And check out our Project page  for inspiration when it comes to your next masonry idea!

Discover a comprehensive list of stone and masonry suppliers in Victoria, BC with Lennox Masonry! Lennox Masonry - Outdoor fireplace built with K2 Stone's "Natural Stone" and "Brownstone" from Hillside Stone & Garden Whether you are a DIY’er, designer, contractor, builder, artist, or a homeowner in search of ideas for your next renovation, we have compiled a list of stone suppliers within the Greater Victoria area and throughout the Southern tip of Vancouver Island to make your life a touch easier. And if you so happen to be in need of a stonemason or masonry contractor to see the job through to completion; from design to installation, we can help with that, too. At Lennox Masonry , we specialize in all forms of masonry, from chimney repairs, repointing, and rebuilds to bricklaying and stone veneers, as well as rock retaining walls. We are a small, community focused masonry company based in Victoria, BC which takes great pride in improving our community. Click here to discuss your project today! And for our full list of masonry and construction suppliers, please visit the Our Suppliers page. Lennox Masonry  - Stone retaining walls and stairs built with sandstone and peppered granite from BC Marble Products in Chemainus, BC A List of Suppliers : Preparatory Materials, Cultured Stone, Brick, and Thin Veneer Stone Products: In the market for cultured stone, pre-fabricated concrete caps, hearthstones, and all the necessary preparatory materials? Look no further! The following suppliers are just outside of Victoria, BC and they also supply brick and natural stone products as well: Brock White Construction Materials Slegg Building Materials (Note: Slegg receives the majority of their stock through I-XL Masonry Supplies on the Lower Mainland and you can view their entire catalog here: I-XL Masonry Supplies. Lennox Masonry  - An interior wall clad with thin brick veneer from I-XL Natural, Thin & Full Veneer Stone Products: If it’s an abundance of natural, thin and full veneer stone products you are after, then look no further than the following distributors. From solid stone slabs to river rocks and all your landscaping needs, they’ve got you covered! K2 Stone Hillside Stone & Garden Island Stone & Landscape Lennox Masonry  - This Tudor home was clad with K2 Stone's "Natural" thin stone veneer Blast Rock Products: Looking for some blast rock so you can create that stone retaining wall you’ve always wanted? The following companies provide just that! Basic Rock Products Gravel Mart Lennox Masonry  - This stone retaining wall was built using a variety of blast-rock from Basic Rock Products Lennox Masonry - Order meets Chaos - 1940's Frog Brick, Victoria, BC Lennox Masonry - Stone staircase and pillar built using blast-rock in Victoria, BC Are you located on Vancouver Island, the Victoria Area, or even on the surrounding Gulf Islands and in need of a professional stonemason for your next project? With years of experience in the field of masonry, Lennox Masonry is well equipped to handle and address your specific needs. Please, Give Us A Call At: 778-968-6574 As always, if you have any questions, please, comment below or write to us at sean@lennoxmasonry.com To check out some of our other blog posts and obtain information on a wide-variety of additional masonry subjects, please click here. Lennox Masonry of Victoria, BC has been proudly serving both Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands for over a decade. We are small group of skilled masons with a great deal of passion towards our trade and for improving the communities we live and work in. We extend our gratitude to the lək̓ʷəŋən people for allowing us to share and work on this corner of the garden with them. We are thankful for the residents and businesses of Victoria, BC for supporting us in our endeavors! If you’re in need of a professional and reliable masonry company for your next project, please contact us  today!

Lennox Masonry is a masonry contractor and chimney repair company in Victoria, BC, specializing in stone walls, heritage restoration, and chimney repairs. Professional Chimney Repair Services and Masonry in Victoria, BC Building The Future | Restoring The Past Heritage Masonry Restoration in Victoria, BC Sean Lennox of Lennox Masonry has been restoring and conserving heritage and historical buildings for over two decades, starting in Vancouver, BC and now Victoria, BC for the past 10 years and counting. Our team of highly trained and skilled heritage masonry restoration experts have worked on numerous buildings and chimneys which require old-world mortars and craftsmanship to maintain their original character. We are well-versed in the use of historical lime-based mortars and lime-washes. With numerous masonry conservation projects completed, you can trust us with your heritage or historical masonry project. To learn more about our masonry restoration projects and process, please click here. Chimney Repairs & Restorations in Victoria, BC With hundreds of chimneys repaired, rebuilt, and capped throughout Victoria, BC by Lennox Masonry over the years, you can trust us to keep your chimney in good standing. We offer repointing services, forming and pouring new concrete crowns and caps, as well as full rebuilds. If it's a heritage-designated chimney, it will require traditional lime-based mortar and craftsmanship to match the original materials and character. This is where we shine as a professional chimney repair and restoration company. To learn more about chimney repairs and rebuilds, please click here. Stone Retaining Walls & Patios in Victoria, BC Nothing creates curb-appeal or adds more value to your home quite like stone. Whether it's stone stairs, pathways, and retaining walls throughout your garden or an entire outdoor living space and kitchen built out of small boulders and flagstones, Lennox Masonry has you covered. We offer full landscaping and hardscaping services which encompass everything from the designing phase to planting the last few trees, bushes, or flowers around your new stone walls and walkways. We are known for our unique approach and creativity when building stone walls, ensuring that the stonework suits your property and style. To learn more about hardscaping, stone patios, retaining walls, and other various landscape features, please click here. Referrals Faith L. "We hired Sean and his team at Lennox Masonry to repair our old stone walls as well as repoint our chimney which was becoming a hazard. Sean was very communicative and kept us thoroughly informed from the initial consultation process through to the start of the project. Him and his team ensured that the job site was left clean and organized at the end of each day and they addressed all of our concerns. Their attention to detail when it came to matching the existing mortar was very impressive and we are more than happy with the end result. Our chimney and stone walls have never looked better! We highly recommend Lennox Masonry to anyone in Victoria, BC who needs a professional, personable, and quality driven masonry company." Gayle H. "Sean completed stone facing on our home - and did an incredible job! He added some extra touches we hadn’t thought of - that made it even more beautiful. He was great to work with - very personable, good communicator, responsive and respectful. We highly recommend him." Julian L. "I reached out to Lennox Masonry to have my chimney assessed. I recently purchased the home and rain was coming into our basement as the chimney was not capped. Sean was quick to respond and was quick to provide me a quote which I found was really fair. He capped my chimney, repointed from the roofline up and in the basement. His communication was very clear and concise. He provided me with updates along the way as we were still transitioning with our move. I found Sean and his team very professional and when the work was done, the job site was thoroughly cleaned. I couldn’t have been more pleased with my decision to go with Lennox Masonry. Thank you Sean!" How It Works Contact Us FAQ Stone Veneer Installations in Victoria, BC We have worked with both thin and full-bed stone veneers when it comes to beautifying both homes and businesses in Victoria, BC. Stone veneers come in a variety of colours and sizes to suit specific needs and applications. Whether it's facing the exterior of your home or an interior feature-wall or fireplace, the tea at Lennox Masonry will help you find the right type of stone to meet your needs and tastes. To learn more about stone veneer projects we have completed and how we can improve your property, click here. Fireplace Conversions & Remodels in Victoria, BC From converting your wood burning fireplace to gas or simply getting it up to code, Lennox Masonry possesses the skills and knowledge required to convert your fireplace and pass the WETT inspection. We can also modernize your fireplace by re-facing the cosmetic bricks and stones on the front of it with either thin-stone or thin-brick veneers. We also specialize in creating new outdoor and indoor fireplaces from the ground up in accordance with both fireplace and chimney codes and regulations. To learn more about fireplace conversions or to view some of our completed fireplace projects, please click here. Book A Consultation Lennox Masonry Ltd 127 Howe St. Victoria, BC Phone: 778-968-6574 Email: sean@lennoxmasonry.com Contact us First name* Last name Email* Tell Us About Your Project* Phone Address* Submit

Lennox Masonry is a masonry contractor in Victoria, BC, which specializes in chimney repairs, stone walls, heritage restoration, and building outdoor living spaces. Welcome to Lennox Masonry At Lennox Masonry, our approach remains simple: quality workmanship and customer satisfaction above all else. Our focus is on safety, great communication, reducing waste, adding value, and creating long standing products. Who We Are Lennox Masonry is a multi-award winning masonry company based out of Victoria, BC, which has been providing masonry services throughout Vancouver Island and the surrounding Gulf Islands for over a decade. We are a small group of stonemasons and bricklayers who take great pride in restoring and enhancing our community one brick or stone at a time. We love the history of our trade and the environment in which we are able to perform our craft. We extend our gratitude to the lək̓ʷəŋən people for allowing us to share and work on this sacred land with them. We are thankful for the residents and businesses of Victoria, BC for supporting us in our endeavors! If you're interested in learning or expanding upon an ancient trade such as masonry, please visit our Employment Page for more information. What We Do Lennox Masonry specializes in all aspects of masonry and hardscaping, whether it's designing and building creative stone features and landscapes— ensuring that your project is distinctively unique and tailored to you, your home, and your property's characteristics— or repairing chimneys and stone retaining walls. We deliver excellent communication, good value, a strong work ethic, ethical business practices, and years of knowledge and expertise while providing a unique artisan approach to stonemasonry and brick projects for the residential and commercial markets of Victoria, B.C., Vancouver Island, and the surrounding Gulf Islands. If you are in need of a stone feature, restoration of heritage masonry, a dry stack or mortared stone retaining wall, chimney repairs, a fireplace conversion, hardscaping, or any other skilled stonework and brickwork, then begin the consultation process with us today to discuss the details of your project. Book A Consultation Services Stone Retaining Walls Here at Lennox Masonry, we like to get creative with stone retaining walls by introducing unique features and aesthetic highlights which make each wall unique and entertaining, adding a touch of character to the properties of Victoria, BC. While we also repair and rebuild heritage stone walls to suit the original design, you can expect the unexpected when hiring us to build you a new wall from scratch. Chimney Repairs & Rebuilds Lennox Masonry offers chimney repair and rebuild services throughout Victoria, BC and also specializes in the restoration of heritage chimneys through the city of Victoria and the Heritage Foundation. We can bring your chimney back up to good standing and to code with the additions of concrete caps and chimney pots, and we can also make your heritage chimney look like it first used to. Fireplaces Stone Veneer Flagstone Custom Stonework Lennox Masonry is adept and thrives at designing and building artisan masonry projects catered to the characteristics of your home in a modern approach. If you can dream it, we can build it. And if you're not a dreamer, then we'll counsel you from start to finish as we put together an entirely original work of art through the medium of stone. Over the years we have built numerous water-features, stone walls, fireplaces, patios, staircases, outdoor living spaces, and garden pathways that our clients have absolutely loved due to the attention to detail and quality that we pour into every project. You can trust us with your vision, and you can trust us to dream one with you into reality. Heritage Masonry Restoration The restoration of heritage masonry structures and buildings requires an educated and practiced approach when ensuring that the repairs are historically accurate. It's imperative that both the materials being used and the character in which they were built, are a match to that of the original building in order to ensure its longevity. This entails a knowledgeable approach to working with traditional lime-based mortars and the ability to replicate destroyed or defaced features of a building or feature. Lennox Masonry and their team of experienced masonry restoration experts are well-versed in the art of restoring masonry buildings. We have had the pleasure of maintaining the history of many buildings, features, and private collections throughout Victoria, Vancouver island, and Vancouver, BC. How It Works Contact Us FAQ Why Choose Us Quality Craftsmanship: A large part of our success here at Lennox Masonry has been a product of placing emphasis on quality workmanship while completing masonry projects. We uphold ourselves to high standards and have chosen to remain a small masonry contracting company through our select group of talented and professional stonemasons and bricklayers over the years. Quality is our guarantee! Reliable: Communication has and will always be paramount when it comes to your project. We strive to ensure that you remain informed and that your needs are met throughout every step of your masonry project. Trustworthy: With over over 10 years in business and over 60 years of combined masonry experience and knowledge, you can trust us to see your project through to completion with due attention paid to every little detail along the way. Our reviews speak for themselves, as well as our impeccable safety record. Visit our Referral s page to learn more and our Better Business Bureau listing as well! "Sean did the repointing of my chimney. He responded to my initial call and provided an accurate assessment, and a more than fair estimate the same day. His communication skills and knowledge of his craft are both excellent. It's unusual to find someone who loves their work, is very competent and treats their clients well. It was a pleasure to have him work here. He is one of a kind. Highly recommended." — J. L. "Sean repaired a dry stacked retaining wall, flag stone sidewalk and a mortared stone wall for me. Sean's work was flawless and excellent on all three projects. His pricing is fair and he is a pleasure to work with. I would not hesitate to hire or recommend Sean in the future." — Andrew V. "I hired Sean for a challenging project involving reassembly/rebuilding a container load of Architectural Stone door and church windows that I had purchased in France and England. In total there were 9 structures... some without plans or pieces missing. Sean took a methodical approach to the problem always thinking it through before powering ahead. What techniques and approaches were new to him he researched diligently and rapidly assimilated into the project. He did not waste time in blind alley work and brought both skill and thought processes to bear on a difficult project. I cannot recommend Sean highly enough!!!!" — Murray N.

Learn about Lennox Masonry's consultation process and explore the frequently asked questions we are asked when it comes to masonry projects in Victoria, BC. Frequently Asked Questions & Answers: 1. Consultation Fees & Process 2. Location & Business Hours 3. Insurance & Licensing 4. Chimney & Fireplace Repairs 5. General Project Inquiries 1. Consultation Fees and Process: What is a Fixed Price Proposal? A fixed price proposal is essentially a quote which entails the definite costs of your project. It is not be mistaken with an "estimate", as the proposal is only created once all factors have been accounted for and agreed upon. When do consultation fees apply: We offer a flat rate of $75.00 (not including GST) for design consultations/quotes within the Greater Victoria and Cowichan Valley area.. If your project requires CAD drawings or further designing, additional fees may apply. All fees incurred during the quotation process are deducted from the fixed price proposal. Please send us an email containing your address, phone number, any pertinent photos and information, as well as acknowledging that you have read and agree to paying the consultation fee in order to begin the process. Consultation fees are due after a site visit has been conducted, and can be paid in the form of cash, cheque, or e-transfer. Please advise us as to your preferred method of payment when contacting us so we can issue the appropriate invoice. Once site visit has been completed and the consultation fees are paid, a fixed price proposal will be emailed to you within 2 business days. Please note your proposal may require additional time if your project is complex. Are the consultation fees refundable if, for whatever reason, we decide not to use your company? The consultation fees are only refunded in the form of a deduction from the proposed costs . What type of projects or circumstances would warrant an increase in the cost of a consultation? There are a number of factors which are taken into account prior to assessing the cost of a consultation, such as: distance traveled and resources invested if you're outside of the Greater Victoria area; evaluating a chimney where scaffolding and potentially CCTV is required; multiple design options where price comparisons and more than one proposal is necessary; the custom designing and building of large projects where CAD drawings are needed; visiting distributors or quarries to further design decisions in regards to your project, etc.. Once we have a clear understanding of what your project entails, we will let you know if there may be additional costs involved. Why do you charge a consultation fee ? Because we are a small company that is dedicated to quality control and due to the amount of requests we receive for quotes each year, it's not economically feasible for us to provide quotes for free. Our base consultation fee of $75.00 helps to cover the fuel and labor costs associated with providing a thorough proposal for your review. Do you provide rough-cost estimates? We no longer provide rough-cost estimates. We have found that supplanting a number prior to considering all project parameters is both misleading and detrimental to the quotation process. What sets you apart from other masonry companies in Victoria, BC? When choosing Lennox Masonry for your project, you have the added benefit of having the owner and operator design and conduct the work himself. Sean Lennox and his team of certified masons are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, as well as very particular about quality control. We have chosen to remain a small masonry company which continues to achieve service and craftsmanship awards year after year. Please visit our Referrals page to hear from some of our clients. Consultation Fees & Process Location & Business Hours 2. Location & Business Hours: Where are you located? We have two locations: Our office is located in South Fairfield, right in the heart of Victoria, BC, as well as a shop space located in Langford, BC. In essence, we're always around the Greater Victoria area, ready to provide masonry services, even emergency calls. What are your business hours: We are open from 9:00am until 5pm Monday through to Saturday and are closed on Sundays and holidays. What are your service areas? Lennox Masonry provides masonry services throughout both the Greater Victoria and Cowichan Valley areas, as well as the surrounding Gulf Islands when needed. How busy are you? Are you able to take on my project? We are typically booking projects months in advance, year-round . We always recommend setting up a consultation as soon as possible and placing a deposit with us to ensure that we can complete your project in a reasonable time-frame. If it's a smaller project, we can usually squeeze it in among our larger projects. How do you get the majority of your work? The majority of our projects are obtained through word-of-mouth. Though more and more people are finding us through Google and a variety of other social media platforms. We provide quality workmanship and good communication skills with a proven track record for safety. Our referrals are a testament as to why our services remain sought after year after year. Insurance 3. Insurance & Licensing: Is Lennox Masonry Fully Licensed and Insured ? Yes, Lennox Masonry is licensed to work throughout Vancouver Island and the surrounding Gulf Islands. We carry $5,000,000 in liability insurance through a local insurance provider which fully insures both you and us while we are working on the premises. We also carry additional insurance for our employees through WCB of Canada and have an impeccable safety record. Chimney & Fireplace Repairs 4. Chimney & Fireplace Repairs: What exactly is involved with chimney inspections? Our first priority at Lennox Masonry is safety. Though we can typically assess the state of a chimney from the ground floor (exterior and the interior firebox), we highly recommend utilizing scaffolding (as per WCB regulations and Liability Insurance purposes) in order to safely reach your roofline and thoroughly inspect your chimney and the flue liners. This up-close inspection process provides a much more accurate quote for your chimney repairs. It can take anywhere from one to eight hours to set up scaffolding and perform a thorough inspection, depending on the heights involved and the accessibility of your chimney. Please note that additional consultation fees will be incurred through this process but that the initial consultation fee will be deducted from the overall costs. Please visit our Chimney Repairs page to learn about how the state of your chimney affects the overall well being of your home. What does repointing a chimney entail? The first step is setting up scaffolding that meets any and all WCB regulations and liability insurance requirements. We cannot use ladders safely while hauling heavy materials and equipment onto a roof or around a chimney. At times, depending on the location of the chimney and the slope of the roof, a secondary scaffold may be built on the rooftop to ensure a safe and professional chimney repair. Once the scaffolding is in place, the mortar between the bricks or stones is recessed to an ideal working depth and then replaced with fresh mortar. The type of mortar being used will depend on the type of materials used in the structure of the chimney. The chimney is then fully cleaned after the mortar has had several days to fully cure. Read our blog post for more information: How To Repoint Brick & Stone Structures What does building a new chimney cap or crown entail? The initial setup is no different than repointing a chimney but the current cap is safely demolished and disposed of prior to us forming and pouring a new concrete chimney cap which meets the code requirements set out by City of Victoria or any other municipality. General Inquiries 5. General Project Inquiries: Will you clean up after the project ? Here at Lennox Masonry, we know that maintaining a clean and organized jobsite is the key to efficiency, safety, and professionalism. We always clean up the site throughout the duration of the project and thoroughly afterwards. We appreciate a clean house and yard, and extend that courtesy to our clients. When washing off tools and equipment covered in mortar, will it negatively impact our garden or grass? Lennox Masonry utilizes lime-based mortars rather than Portland cement-based mortars. The native plants here in Victoria, BC tend to thrive off of diluted, natural hydraulic lime and the sand used to create the mortar. If anything, our clients have always appreciated the addition of lime to their gardens but if you have any concerns, please voice them to us while we go over the jobsite layout with you. What is an acid-wash? An acid-wash is applied to stubborn mortar stains on brick or stonework after a repair or new installation is complete and the mortar is fully cured. Muriatic acid is diluted with a specific amount of water to help ease the mortar stains off of the surface. All safety precautions are taken by Lennox Masonry while working with Muriatic acid and it is not harmful to any other materials on or around the area. Copper being the exception, as the acid can stain it. Please note that we rarely apply an acid-wash but we’ll notify you if the need arises. Do you offer masonry cleaning services? Lennox Masonry operates a unique stone and brick masonry cleaning apparatus which is designed to steam clean masonry surfaces without saturating the materials and mortar involved, unlike pressure washers and cleaning chemicals. It is designed to be the most environmentally friendly cleaning option on the market and the safest when it comes to maintaining the integrity of masonry structures.