Masonry for Commercial Projects: Why It’s a Wise Investment
Combining brick and stone on your home’s exterior can create a stunning, timeless look that adds texture and dimension to your property. However, when mixing these two materials, it’s important to do so thoughtfully to ensure that the overall design feels cohesive rather than chaotic. At Murphy Masonry, we specialize in Block and Brick Installation in Minnesota, and our expert Masonry Contractors in Brainerd are here to offer some helpful tips for blending brick and stone in a way that enhances your home’s curb appeal.
1. Choose Complementary Colors
The key to mixing brick and stone is selecting materials with complementary colors. Warm-toned bricks pair well with earthy tones in stone, such as beige or tan, while cool-toned bricks may work better with gray or slate stones. It’s important that both materials share similar undertones to create a seamless blend. At Murphy Masonry, we help our clients select colors that work harmoniously together, enhancing the overall look of the exterior.
2. Limit the Number of Materials
While it may be tempting to add multiple textures and materials to your home’s exterior, it’s best to keep it simple when mixing brick and stone. Stick to these two materials and use them strategically. Introducing too many different elements, like wood or metal, can detract from the cohesive aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. Our Masonry Contractors in Brainerd ensure that the right materials are used, focusing on creating a cohesive and elegant exterior.
3. Establish a Primary Material
When mixing brick and stone, one material should act as the primary focus of your exterior, with the other serving as an accent. For example, you might choose brick for the majority of the exterior walls and use stone for the foundation, columns, or around the windows. This will help maintain visual balance. At Murphy Masonry, we work with you to determine the ideal proportion for your design, ensuring that the final result is well-balanced.
4. Consider the Texture
Both brick and stone come in a variety of textures, from smooth and polished to rough and rustic. When mixing these materials, aim for a balance of textures. For instance, pairing smooth, modern brick with rough, natural stone can create contrast and depth. However, be careful not to mix textures that are too extreme, as this can lead to a clash of styles. Our team at Murphy Masonry ensures that the textures we use complement each other, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your home.
5. Use Consistent Mortar Colors
One of the most overlooked aspects of blending brick and stone is the mortar color. A neutral, consistent mortar color can tie both materials together and create a seamless look. Avoid using mortar that contrasts too strongly with either the brick or the stone, as this can draw attention to the joints and make the materials feel disjointed. At Murphy Masonry, we help select the perfect mortar to complement both the brick and stone.
6. Match the Architectural Style
The architectural style of your home should play a big role in how you mix brick and stone. For example, a modern home may benefit from sleek, polished stone combined with neutral-colored brick, while a more traditional or rustic home could look great with natural, rough-cut stone paired with classic red brick. Our Masonry Contractors in Brainerd work closely with clients to ensure that the brick and stone materials we use match the overall style and design of your home.
7. Pay Attention to Proportions
Proportions are critical when mixing brick and stone. Avoid using too much of either material, as one can easily overpower the other. A good rule of thumb is to use brick as the primary material for most of the exterior, with stone used for accent areas like window surrounds, columns, or as a foundation wrap. This ensures that both materials complement each other without competing for attention.
8. Blend with the Surrounding Landscape
Lastly, consider how the brick and stone materials will blend with the surrounding landscape. Natural stone works beautifully with lush greenery and wooded areas, while brick may pair better with urban or suburban settings. Take into account your home’s location and surroundings to make sure your brick and stone combination complements the environment.
Conclusion
Mixing brick and stone on your home’s exterior can elevate its look, adding depth, texture, and character. By following these eight tips, you can ensure that your combination of materials creates a cohesive, balanced, and beautiful result. At Murphy Masonry, our Masonry Contractors in Brainerd are experts in Block and Brick Installation in Minnesota, and we’re here to help you create the perfect combination of brick and stone for your home’s exterior.
If you're ready to start your next masonry project, Contact Us Today, and let us help you transform your home with the ideal blend of brick and stone.
