Masonry
Learn more about masonry projects— big and small.
How to Install Precast Concrete Steps
Mason Mark McCullough helps a homeowner remove his crumbling stone steps. Then, he tours a factory to learn how precast concrete steps are made and helps install a set at the homeowner’s house.
How to Make and Mix Concrete
Concrete projects can be tough work. While there isn’t much you can do about the labor, you can lighten the load on your wallet by making your own concrete mix. The process is simple, and you can tailor your mix for perfect results.
How to Redo a Brick Path
In this video and guide, This Old House Mason Mark McCullough shares how to redo a brick walkway that was originally a rush job.
How To Drill Into Concrete
Whether you’re mounting shelves on a cinder block garage wall or installing outdoor lighting onto stone, we can help you drill into concrete.
How to Cut a Granite Countertop
Cutting granite for kitchen countertops whether indoors or outdoors—is a DIY-able job. But there are some caveats to consider before getting started.
How to Build a Prefab Stone Wall
Choosing a prefab stone wall can save you both money and time. Watch how skilled technicians make and install them.
Family Rock Hunting Activity | This Old House: Live
Our in-house rock enthusiast, Mason Mark McCullough, has the perfect activity for families while they are at home: go on a rock scavenger hunt! Download our printable guide and start rock hunting.
How to Install Concrete Pavers
This Old House mason, Mark McCullough, helps a couple install a concrete paver patio in their backyard.
How Mount Rushmore was Created
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough learns about how Mount Rushmore was built.
How To Cut Stone With Hand Tools
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough teaches various techniques for cutting stone with common hand tools.
How To Replace a Hearth with Slate Tile
Learn how to replace an old hearth with stylish slate tiles. Our guide covers tools, techniques, and safety tips for a DIY fireplace upgrade.
Everything You Need to Know to Choose a Masonry Trowel
There are many different types of masonry trowels out there, so which one should you buy? Learn more on each type from This Old House mason Mark McCullough.
The Basics of Masonry
Stone, brick, mortar, and concrete are the materials of the mason’s trade. Stone can be laid as walkways and walls without using mortar. Here’s what you need to know about masonry projects.
How To Break Up and Remove Concrete
To break and remove concrete, you’ll need some key tools and hard work. Read these approaches to breaking up and disposing of concrete.
How to Build a Simple Dry Well in 16 Easy to Follow Steps
Ask This Old House expert mason Mark McCullough builds a dry well for a homeowner with unresolved drainage issues in his backyard.
How To Patch a Hole in a Brick Wall
In this step-by-step article and video, This Old House mason Mark McCullough shows us how to patch a brick wall like a pro.
How To Restore a Historic Fireplace
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough delicately restores a damaged historic fireplace built with custom, nearly irreplaceable bricks.
How To Repoint and Prevent Further Damage to a Fieldstone Foundation
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough repoints a homeowner's crumbling fieldstone foundation and explains how you can do the same.
Comparing Masonry Jointers
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough explains the uses for different types of masonry jointers along with other tips and tricks.
How To Repair a Cracked Stucco Retaining Wall
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough travels to San Diego to repair a crack in a concrete retaining wall with a stucco finish.
How to Color Stain Concrete
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough and host Kevin O'Connor demonstrate how to dress up concrete by using a stain.
How To Replace a Concrete Walkway With Brick Pavers
Ask This Old House mason, Mark McCullough, replaces a cracked and worn concrete walkway with new brick pavers.
How To Whitewash Brick With Masonry Supplies
This Old House mason Mark McCullough demonstrates how to whitewash brick with masonry materials for a more authentic, aged look.
How to Reface a Fireplace with Granite
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough teaches apprentice Krysten how to reface a granite fireplace.
How to Match Mortar
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough explains how to match mortar for repointing jobs
How to Waterproof Concrete Brick to Prevent Damage
Concrete brick can become water-damaged over time, but there's a simple solution to prevent this: waterproofing. Find out more here.
How to Prevent Silica Dust when Drilling or Grinding
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough tests out different tools that collect silica dust more efficiently
How To Clean Brick With Acid
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough demonstrates how to clean soot and grime out of brick using acid to retain that beautiful red.
How to Repoint Brick Using Only Hand Tools
Have a crumbling exterior wall that needs to be repointed? Follow our guide to repoint your brick yourself with basic hand tools.
8 Concrete DIYs to Try
Versatile, affordable, easy to work with—concrete can be a DIYers best friend. From maintenance and repair to decorative elements, here are a few projects that anyone can do, quickly and confidently, with a bag of concrete and a bit of creativity.
Bonus Uses for Masonry Glue
Explore five uses of masonry glue beyond basic construction and learn about practical solutions for common household repairs and projects.
How to Work with Concrete
This Old House expert Roger Cook explains how to upgrade your home with hand-poured concrete. Trust us - it's not as hard as it seems!