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Hard as a rock doesn't mean it'll last forever!
    
                                                   
Even stone can deteriorate. Stone and other similar construction material is subject to the same harmful effects of weather and other environment concerns that can compromise wood and alternative composite building materials. While we expect wood to degrade/decay over time there is most often the false sense that stone will last forever. Obviously stone is far more durable than other siding and construction materials, however, regular maintenance is still required. Stone facades are especially vulnerable to the elements. Although moderate exposure to rainwater is clearly unavoidable and is beneficial in cleaning the exterior surface of the stone it is responsible for the majority of stone damage and most often attributable to cycles of heavy saturation and drying. Reasons for these cycles vary from home to home but are usually seasonal weather factors, leaking or insufficient gutter systems, ineffective cornices, blocked drains and clinging vegetation.  
                                                                  
       The most common causes of stone deterioration include:
 The freeze and thaw cycle. This cycle is very well known to us here in New Hampshire and Maine. Through capillary action water is drawn deep into the stone. This process causes a mechanical stress on the porous walls upon freezing. Cracking and separation are the ... more

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