Build an Outdoor Fireplace That Lasts Through Any Weather
Outdoor fireplaces are one of the most loved features in Alabama backyards. They bring people together on cool evenings, add value to homes, and make outdoor spaces usable almost year-round. But many outdoor fireplaces don’t last as long as they should. Alabama’s weather—hot summers, heavy rain, and sudden cold snaps—can take a toll on brick […]
Retaining Wall Safety: What Every Homeowner Should Know
Sometimes, it only takes one viral moment to make everyone rethink safety. Last week, a college football player slammed into a retaining wall at the edge of a stadium, and the clip spread everywhere—sports channels, social media, and local news. It wasn’t the play that caught people’s attention, but the crash itself. The question everyone […]
Storm Damage Sparks Stone Masonry Safety Checks
When storms hit North Alabama, most homeowners think first about roof leaks or fallen trees. But lately, a different kind of damage is showing up—cracked walls, leaning patios, and shifting outdoor fireplaces. These problems might not grab headlines, but they’re all connected to one thing: stone masonry. Even though stone is known for its strength […]
Building With Brick Pavers: A Patio Guide That Lasts
When most people picture a backyard upgrade, they imagine smooth brick pavers leading to a grill, fire pit, or outdoor table. It looks simple enough: dig a shallow hole, toss in some sand, and stack the bricks. But in Madison, that shortcut almost always fails. Our red clay soil expands when wet and shrinks when […]
Brick Hearth Cracks & Sinkholes: Masonry Safety Explained
When a massive sinkhole opened up in Bangkok last week, the video clips spread fast across news sites and social media. Cars dropped into a gaping hole, a 50-meter cavity swallowed light poles, and entire streets split apart. Investigators believe a mix of heavy rains, a burst water line, and underground tunneling pushed the soil […]
How to Protect Your Brick Fireplace From Storm Damage
Storms can come fast and strong, especially when weather systems from the Gulf push inland. Right now, with Hurricane Gabrielle making national headlines and forecasters warning about severe weather across North Alabama, homeowners are paying close attention. One part of the house that often gets overlooked until it’s too late is the brick fireplace. It […]
Brick Repair: How to Retrofit Weep Vents in Older Homes
When most homeowners think about brick repair, they picture cracks, loose mortar, or chipped corners. But there’s another hidden issue that can cause even bigger problems if ignored: missing or clogged weep vents. Many older homes, especially those built between the 1970s and 1990s, don’t have proper drainage systems behind their brick veneer. Without that […]
How to Install Stone Pavers for a Long-Lasting Patio
If you’re dreaming of a beautiful outdoor space, stone pavers can transform your backyard into a stunning patio. Stone pavers offer a natural look, durability, and charm that few other materials can match. However, to enjoy your stone paver patio for years without headaches, proper installation is key. Why Stone Pavers Are a Great Choice […]
Flooding Crisis: How Retaining Walls Will Change
Retaining walls are an important part of many properties. They hold back soil, prevent erosion, and keep yards safe, especially in hilly areas. But recent flooding problems are shining a spotlight on how these walls are built. In fact, this flooding crisis could change how retaining walls are designed and constructed starting in 2025. If […]
Outdoor Fireplace Safety: Cracks and Repair Tips
When you gather around your outdoor fireplace on a cool night, the last thing you think about is safety. You see the glow of the fire, the laughter of friends, and maybe even roasted marshmallows. But small cracks in the brick or stone may be hiding bigger issues. Recent news of a brick façade collapse […]