Are you starting to notice some damaged brickwork around your house?Maybe some small cracks or joints with loose mortar?
You’ll want to take care of those repairs sooner rather than later. Why?
Learn the basics of brick repair and how to handle damaged brickwork around your home. We’ll cover the causes, repair basics, and average costs. Plus we’ll help you decide when you need to call the pros.
Let’s start with some common signs of damaged brickwork you should look for as you inspect your home.
Bricks, while a durable building material, do at times need to be repaired. Here are some common types of brick damage that you should look for.
Cracks or Crumbling Bricks
One of the most common indicators of brick damage is the appearance of cracks. These can be subtle, hairline cracks barely noticeable from a distance, or more prominent splits that raise immediate concern.
Crumbling bricks, where brick pieces or entire brick structures start to disintegrate, are a sign of advanced damage, possibly due to prolonged moisture exposure or inferior brick quality.
Deteriorating Mortar Joints
Over time, mortar can begin to erode, weaken, or even fall out, leaving gaps between the bricks. These broken bricks not only compromise the wall’s strength but also leave room for elements like water to seep in, making the problem even worse.
Efflorescence or White Stains
Often mistaken for mere discoloration, these white, powdery deposits could signify a deeper issue. They are the result of moisture moving through the brick, dissolving soluble salts present within, and then evaporating, leaving the salts on the brick’s surface. This indicates prolonged moisture issues that could need to be addressed.
Signs of Moisture and Mold
Beyond the evident wet spots, the appearance of mold or mildew on or around brickwork is a telltale sign of water damage. It’s essential to address this quickly as prolonged moisture can lead to more severe brick and structural damage.
So what are the common causes of damage to bricks? Here are 4 of the big ones.
Normal Wear and Tear
Just like everything else, bricks aren’t immune to the natural wear and tear of time. Even with the best care, bricks, especially those in older structures, can show signs of age after several decades or centuries. This natural aging can make them more susceptible to other forms of damage.
The Elements
The elements, particularly in regions with extreme weather conditions, can be harsh on brickwork. Persistent rain can lead to moisture-related issues, while the freeze-thaw cycle in colder climates can cause bricks to crack. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can also fade the color of bricks, making them more brittle over time.
Shifting Foundations
Subtle shifts in a home’s foundation can lead to structural cracks in the brickwork or even cause walls to lean.
Poor Construction
As with anything, the quality of the initial work plays a significant role in longevity. If bricks were not laid correctly or if subpar materials or techniques were used, the brickwork might show signs of damage much sooner than expected. This underscores the importance of ensuring quality work, especially during the construction phase.
If you notice large structural cracks in brick walls, it’s probably time to call the pros.
If you spot brick issues early, repairs are usually less intrusive. Here are some of the most common types of brick repairs.
Repointing
This tedious process involves removing deteriorated mortar and replacing it with new mortar. This gives brickwork a rejuvenated appearance and renewed strength.
Brick Replacement
Some bricks, especially those that are chipped or cracked, might need a replacement brick. It’s crucial to find a match in size, color, and texture to maintain the wall’s aesthetics.
Sealing
Protecting brickwork from moisture is important. Applying a high-quality brick sealant can act as a barrier against rain and humidity.
Professional Assessment
Not all issues are visible to the untrained eye. Periodic evaluations by experts like AX Masonry can help foresee significant problems.
Check out our article How to Repair Brick Cracks, Joints, Mortar, and More to get more details about different types of brick repair methods.
If you have a minor repair and want to try a hands-on approach, here are 7 tips:
Not sure if a DIY fix for your damaged brick is the right choice? Then check out our article – DIY vs. Professional Brick Repair: Pros and Cons of Each.
Going with a professional masonry company for brick repair brings numerous benefits:
AX Masonry’s crew are brick experts at color-matching mortar and bricks to match what’s already in your home. That attention to detail ensures the repair doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb.
The cost of brick repair varies depending on the type of repair, the extent of damage, and regional pricing differences.
Due to these variables, it’s advisable to get multiple quotes from professionals to understand the specific costs for your particular project.
Repointing is one of the most common repairs done on old brickwork. Repointing costs can vary widely based on factors such as the condition of the existing mortar, the type of property, the accessibility of the area needing work, and regional labor rates.
Here are some general pricing examples:
Always keep in mind these are average estimates and prices can differ based on local market conditions, the current state of the brickwork, and the level of expertise required. It’s best to get detailed quotes from several local contractors to find the best deal and ensure quality work.
It’s smart not to put off brick repairs. Ignoring warning signs can have expensive consequences:
Whether opting for DIY or professional expertise, timely repairs are the key to ensuring brickwork remains a testament to your home’s beauty and resilience. If you’re in the Dallas Fort Worth area, give the brick repair experts at AX Masonry a call. We’d love to discuss your brick repair needs to see how we can help. Give us a call today for a FREE consultation.
If you’re in the Dallas or Fort Worth areas, give us a call at AX Masonry. Call us today and get a FREE consultation for your patio project.