Bring Warmth Indoors With Builders Materials’ Fireplace Showroom & Masonry Supplies in Ruidoso

Ruidoso’s Place for Fireplaces, Stonework, Brick & More

Ruidoso sits in the Sacramento Mountains, and its name comes from the Spanish “Rio Ruidoso,” meaning “noisy river,” named after the sound of the creek that flows through the region.

The village is flanked by forested peaks, trails, creeks and wilderness, and locals appreciate having access to hiking, biking, and alpine scenery just steps from home. Enjoy spots like the White Mountain Wilderness, the Grindstone Trail System and Cedar Creek Recreation Area, and Ski Apache.

Wondering about local history? Wingfield Heritage House Museum is a great spot to check out, as is Fort Stanton, or the nearby Lincoln Historic Site.

Ruidoso also hosts a variety of events that draw locals and visitors alike, such as AspenFest Parade & Festival in October, Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival in July, Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally in September, and XTERRA Ruidoso in August.

We love serving this area, as well as surrounding towns like Fort Stanton, Tinnie, Carrizozo, Arabela, Angus, Bent, San Patricio, and more. Ready to reach out? We’d love to hear from you soon!

What Is Full Brick & Where Should It Be Used?

Full brick is one of the most time-tested building materials out there, valued for its durability, classic appearance, and practical benefits. It’s often used in spots like fireplaces, accent walls, or home exteriors, offering both beauty and strength.

How long does real brick last?

Brick is one of the longest-lasting materials available. When properly installed and maintained, full brick can last a lifetime – think 100 years or longer. Many historic brick homes and buildings stand as proof of this longevity.

Of course, when exposed to high heat (as with chimneys and fireplaces), longevity may dip a bit, but brick still holds up impressively well, easily lasting for decades when properly maintained and repointed every 20 or 30 years. especially when combined with quality mortar.

Does full brick help with insulation or soundproofing?

Yes! Brick adds both thermal and acoustic benefits.

• Brick absorbs heat during the day and releases it slowly, helping regulate indoor temperature.
• Brick’s density makes it an effective sound barrier, keeping outside noise down.
• While brick itself isn’t a strong insulator, it pairs well with modern insulation materials, creating energy-efficient walls.

Is brick fireproof and weather resistant?

Yes, brick is naturally fireproof, as in it won’t ignite, melt, or give off toxic fumes. That’s why it’s a preferred material for fireplaces and chimneys.

In terms of weather, brick withstands rain, wind, and sun very well, but mortar joints do tend to wear down eventually, especially after experiencing freeze/thaw cycles. In these cases, occasional maintenance (tuckpointing, repointing, and waterproofing) helps prolong its life.

What Is Thin Brick & When Should It Be Used?

Thin brick gives homeowners the timeless look of brick, just without the weight and bulk of full brick. It’s often used for accent walls, backsplashes, wine cellars, and even fireplace surrounds. It’s safe to use on non-combustible surfaces around the firebox, and it provides the same aesthetic appeal as full brick.

Does thin brick look the same as full brick once installed?

Yes, when installed correctly, thin brick is almost indistinguishable from full brick. In fact, thin brick is often cut from full brick or manufactured in molds taken from real brick, and since it uses similar spacing and mortar applications, the final look mimics a full brick wall almost exactly.

How is thin brick attached to surfaces?

Thin brick is typically installed like tile. They’ll be adhered with thinset mortar to surfaces like drywall, cement board, or masonry, then joints are filled with mortar for a finished look. This works best on interior walls, exterior facades, or fireplace surrounds without the need for added structural support.

What Are Brick Pavers & When Should They Be Used?

Brick pavers are durable, versatile, and eco-friendly, making them a favorite for patios, driveways, and walkways. They are known for withstanding all climate types quite well, and they should resist cracking with proper installation. They can even support vehicle traffic while offering easy maintenance.

Do brick pavers crack easily in freeze/thaw climates?

Not if installed correctly! Quality clay pavers are fired at high temperatures, making them dense and less prone to cracking. This means that a stable, compacted base with good drainage prevents shifting and frost damage. Unlike poured concrete, pavers can flex slightly, reducing cracks.

How do you prevent weeds or shifting between pavers?

Preventing weeds and shifting starts with proper installation. A stable base is the most important factor – pavers should be laid on a well-compacted layer of crushed stone or gravel, followed by a layer of bedding sand for leveling. This foundation helps prevent settling or movement over time.

Once the pavers are installed, polymeric sand (a special jointing sand that hardens when wet) should be swept into the joints. It locks the pavers together and creates a barrier against weeds, ants, and erosion.

Regular maintenance also helps – think sweeping debris, rinsing off dirt, reapplying polymeric sand every few years keeps… And good edge restraints along the borders further prevent pavers from shifting outward.

Can pavers handle vehicle weight?

Yes, if installed correctly, pavers can easily support vehicle weight and are often used for driveways and parking pads. The key is in the base preparation. Driveway pavers require a deeper, more compacted base (usually 8-12 inches of crushed stone) to distribute the load evenly.

The interlocking design of pavers also helps them flex slightly under pressure rather than crack, unlike poured concrete. For heavy vehicles, thicker pavers (are recommended. When paired with proper joint sand and edge restraints, a well-built paver surface can handle regular car or light truck traffic for decades without ruts or shifting.

Tell Me About Natural vs. Manufactured Stone & Where It Should Be Used

Stone, whether natural or manufactured, adds elegance and timeless durability to any project. Natural stone (granite, limestone, slate, etc.) comes directly from the earth and offers unique colors, veining, and textures that make every piece distinct. Manufactured stone, also called cultured stone, is crafted from concrete and pigments molded to replicate real stone.

Is manufactured stone as durable as natural stone?

No, manufactured stone is not as durable as natural stone. Natural stone is extremely tough and resistant to weathering, having a reputation for lasting centuries.

That said, manufactured stone is made from concrete cast in molds, so while not as hard as natural stone, high-quality products are still very durable when installed properly.

Does stone need to be sealed to prevent staining?

Yes, sealing is highly recommended for both natural and manufactured stone, especially in high-use or moisture-prone areas. Natural stone is often porous and can absorb oils, water, or soot, leading to discoloration over time. A high-quality penetrating sealer helps repel stains and makes cleaning easier.

Manufactured stone, while less porous, also benefits from sealing to maintain its color and protect the surface from grime, smoke, or UV exposure. Resealing every few years keeps both types looking fresh and extends their lifespan significantly.

Can stone be used around fireplaces or outdoor kitchens?

Absolutely. Both natural and manufactured stone are excellent choices for fireplace surrounds, outdoor kitchens, and other heat-adjacent features.

• Natural stone like granite, slate, or limestone handles high temperatures and offers a rich, timeless look.
• Manufactured stone is a lighter, more affordable alternative that can mimic the same aesthetic without the structural weight.

For fireplaces, make sure the stone and mortar are rated for high-heat applications. Outdoors, proper sealing and moisture management are key to prevent damage from rain or freeze-thaw cycles. When installed correctly, stone can elevate any hearth or patio into a stunning focal point.

We’re Here To Bring Your Vision to Life

Builders Materials provides Ruidoso homeowners with the tools to make every space unforgettable. Our locally trusted team is here to guide you through the process, whether you’re choosing materials for a renovation, building from the ground up, or simply looking to add a touch of mountain charm.

Visit our Albuquerque fireplace showroom to explore our full collection and discover how Builders Materials can help transform your Ruidoso home. Reach out.