Madison is a borough in southeastern Morris County with a busy downtown, a train station and Drew University. Its residential streets are lined with Victorians, Tudors, colonials and foursquares, many from the late 1800s through the 1930s, along with some mid-century homes. Lots are moderate, the ground is gently rolling, and mature trees shade most blocks. A large share of the houses have original brick: chimneys, foundations, front steps and in many cases whole walls.
Repointing old brick
Brick lasts for generations, but mortar does not. When joints wear back, water gets into the wall, freezes and pushes brick faces off. Tuckpointing and repointing restores the joints in Madison. On older homes we match the mortar to the brick, since a mortar that is too hard can crack soft historic brick, and we match color and joint shape so the repair blends in.
Chimneys on older houses
Chimneys take more weather than any other part of the house. Cracked crowns, loose top courses and failing flashing are common on homes of this age. Our chimney masonry work includes new crowns, partial and full rebuilds above the roofline, and repointing. While we are up there, we can check the brick at the base of the chimney and the steps below it, which often show the same kind of wear.
Entries, walks and garden paths
The front of an older Madison home deserves an entry that looks original. Brick paver entry courts, bluestone treads on brick risers and curved garden walks suit Tudors and Victorians especially well. In back, a modest brick or bluestone patio usually fits these yards better than a large expanse.
Before scheduling
- Historic areas. Some properties may be in a historic district, which can add review for exterior work.
- Matching brick. Salvaged or blended brick may be needed to match older walls.
- Street trees. Walk and entry layouts should leave room for large roots.
- Neighbors. Close lots may need access through a side yard.
Madison sits between Chatham and Morris Township, close to Florham Park, and we work across Morris County. Request a free estimate and we will look at your brick, chimney or entry.
