Frequently Asked Questions

Working in the area for three generations we have mastered the restoration of Boston stone foundations. From unique sedimentary stone found throughout the South End, Dorchester and Roxbury to hard igneous or metamorphic stone ledge occurring in Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury and Brookline that make up the areas glacial till.

 Where theres hills theres ledge and Fairmont hill or Savin Hill are no different. Early settlers in 1670's, 1700's and later in the 1800's when Boston was being developed took advantage of the rocky ledge for stability in construction and raw building materials. All early foundations pre 1900's were built with masonry, be it stone or brick often a combination of the two. Stone masonry provided a stable base and stones hold up well to below grade ground water. Bricks were used above grade for exact building requirements and design elements. 

 The mortar in these foundations all used sand and lime with no exception. 

Over time (1800's - 2022) masonry with lime needs repairs from the elements and time itself. 

Most basements have original aged mortar in walls and bricks often 100 to 200 years old.  Lime mortar some would say can far outlast modern mortars due to its flexibility and ability to reconstitute itself into useable mortar after decades.

At Thompson Crowley Masonry we specialize in the restoration and preservation of lime mortar used in stone foundations.

 We offer complete foundation brick repairs, concrete floor repairs and stone foundation repointing and restoration.

Boston stone foundation restoration includes all masonry repairs of mortar, stones, brick and lime mortar coating repairs. We use traditional lime and sand along with modern masonry advancements for stone foundation restoration, waterproofing and sealant.