Have you ever looked at an old foundation that was crumbling and wondered if it needed some love? Parging is the process of applying a new coat to rough concrete. It may seem like parging is just a cosmetic addition, but it’s much more. It’s like wearing a suit to impress at a job interview–functionality meets flair in your home’s first impression. You can get the best guide on Toronto Parging.
Toronto is no stranger to extreme weather changes. The weather can change dramatically in a matter of minutes. One moment it could be scorching heat and the next, it might feel like you’re living your own version of Frozen. Concrete walls and foundations can be seriously damaged by these extreme conditions. The parging of structures can protect them from the harshest elements. A thin layer of cement can be a superhero.
Parging is not a weekend job. If you rush through the process, it’s like plugging up a dam using chewing gum. The preparation of the surface is crucial. Cleaning the area is important. Remove any loose pieces and wet the surface. You want a tasty crust on your steak, but you can’t get it if the steps aren’t followed.
You may ask, “Why bother reinforcing the outside walls of your home?” Consider the cycle of freeze-thaw. Repeat the cycle: water seeps through cracks and expands as it freezes. The outer layer of your wall starts to resemble the Grand Canyon. Parging fills in those cracks, smoothes out the surface and reduces moisture.
Toronto’s older houses can be a real challenge. There are houses in Toronto that have more history and heritage than the attic of your grandmother. There will be variations in both material and construction. You’ll find enough differences to make anyone go up a wall. This requires patience, and an eye for detail.
Also, there are the neighbours. It’s unlikely that you want to have a wall that is prone to avalanches in the middle of an untouched row. A good parging can increase your home’s curb appeal and possibly raise its value. You won’t notice the difference, but others will.
We must not cut corners on our tools. Trowels and ladders are your best friends. Imagine it as an artist’s pallet, which is essential to making parging appear professional. You don’t want to end up with uneven, lumpy surfaces. Especially not for your partner, who is already sick of all your home improvements.
Don’t forget to mix the mortar. If it’s too watery, the mortar won’t adhere. If you use too much mortar, it will be difficult to apply. Imagine Goldilocks, but using mortar. It’s the perfect consistency. Add some waterproofing compound, particularly if Toronto’s unpredictable weather is making you nervous.
Imagine your parging like a first-date. Everything should be flawless, well executed, and smooth. You need to give each layer some time to dry. Otherwise, your surface will be covered in cracks and small blisters. Will you avoid that rookie error?
Oh, yes. City codes and permits. We can’t ignore them, right? You should check the regulations in your area because an angry inspector on your doorstep can be a real shocker. It may seem like permits are a pain, but they’re better than having to redo your work.
Now let’s move on to the aesthetics. What about textured or pigmented finishes? You can choose from endless possibilities, but it’s so rewarding when you finally find the “one”. You can ask around in your community, or mix and match colors to discover your style. It’s your house to decorate, so make it your own. Don’t let anyone else tell you what bland looks like.
Parging doesn’t have to be a daunting task, whether you are a DIY veteran or new to the game. Not only are you adding protection, but also enhancing the charm and functionality of your home. Toronto houses are unique in their blend of modernity and history. They deserve some touch ups every now and again. Roll up your sleeves, grab a trowel and start working. Who knows? You might even enjoy it.