Masonry Terms

Aggregate: Refers to various materials such as crushed stone, gravel, or sand used in concrete or mortar to add strength and stability to construction projects.

Brick Bond: The specific pattern or arrangement in which bricks are laid in a wall or structure, influencing both aesthetics and structural integrity.

Coping: The protective cap or covering placed atop a wall, pillar, or structure to prevent water ingress and to enhance durability.

Cultured Stone:

Man-made stone veneers designed to replicate the look of natural stone, often used for decorative purposes in masonry.

Driveways: Paved paths for vehicles, often made of concrete, asphalt, or interlocking pavers.

Efflorescence: A white, powdery deposit that can sometimes appear on the surface of masonry due to the migration of salts. It’s often a result of water penetration and subsequent evaporation.

Grout: A mixture of cement, sand, and water used to fill the joints between tiles or bricks, creating a solid, durable surface.

Hardscaping: The non-living elements of landscape design, including structures like walls, pathways, and other features, which complement the natural environment.

Mortar: A mixture of cement, sand, and water used to bond bricks, stones, or concrete blocks together in construction.

Outdoor Firepit: A circular masonry structure designed for containing fires, providing warmth and a cozy atmosphere in outdoor settings.

Outdoor Fireplace: A masonry fireplace built outside for warmth and ambiance, often crafted with fireproof materials like stone or brick.

Outdoor Kitchen: A functional cooking area constructed outdoors, typically featuring countertops, grills, and other kitchen amenities made of stone, brick, or concrete.

Parging: The application of a thin coat of mortar to the surface of a masonry wall for both decorative and protective purposes.

Pavers: Durable materials, such as concrete, stone, or brick, used to create durable and visually appealing surfaces for driveways, patios, or walkways.

Retaining Wall: A structure built to prevent the erosion of soil or to retain soil on a slope, often constructed using stone, brick, or concrete blocks.

Sealers & Polymeric Sand:

Sealers are coatings applied to masonry surfaces to protect against moisture, while polymeric sand is a joint sand mixture that hardens and prevents weed growth in between pavers.

Sill: The bottom horizontal part of a window or door frame, often made of stone, concrete, or wood.

Stone Veneer: Thin, decorative stone pieces used to simulate the appearance of natural stone. They are lighter and more cost-effective than traditional stone.

Tempered Stone: Stone that has undergone a heat treatment process to enhance its strength and durability, commonly used in outdoor construction projects.

Walkway: A path or pavement intended for pedestrian use, usually constructed using various materials like concrete, flagstone, or brick pavers.

Weep Hole: A small opening in a masonry structure that allows water to drain out, preventing moisture buildup.

This glossary offers a fundamental understanding of the terms commonly employed in masonry and hardscaping. For any specific inquiries or assistance regarding your masonry projects, please contact our team at Long Island Masonry Company. We’re here to provide expert advice and support for all your masonry needs.