If your home has masonry bricks, chances are, at some point, you will need to repair them. Even durable bricks can be damaged by weather, age, or insects. When this happens, it’s essential to know how to properly repair them so your home can maintain its structural integrity and curb appeal.
This quick guide will teach you things you need to know about repairing damaged masonry bricks, from assessing the damage to choosing suitable repair materials. By the end, you’ll be ready to tackle any brick repair project, big or small.
Causes of Damage to Masonry Bricks
Masonry bricks are a popular choice for construction due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. However, several factors can damage bricks, including weathering, improper installation, and poor maintenance.
Here are some of the most prevalent causes of damage to masonry bricks:
- Weathering
Bricks are susceptible to weathering, which can cause them to crack, flake, or crumble. Weathering is caused by the combined action of sun, rain, wind, and temperature changes, which can break down the brick’s surface and cause it to lose its strength.
- Improper Installation
Bricks must be installed correctly to withstand the forces of nature. If not installed properly, they can become loose, allowing water and moisture to penetrate the brick and cause damage.
- Poor Maintenance
Bricks require regular maintenance to stay in good condition. They can become stained and damaged if they are not cleaned and sealed regularly, they can become stained and damaged.
Signs that Your Bricks Need Repairing
Bricks are one of the most durable and long-lasting materials used in construction. However, even bricks can eventually succumb to wear and tear and may need to be repaired or replaced. Here are some signs that your bricks may need to be fixed:
- Cracks or chips in the brick surface
- Bricks that have begun to crumble or flake
- Mortar joints that are cracked crumbling or missing altogether
- Bricks that are loose or appear to be pulling away from the rest of the structure
If you notice any of these signs, having the bricks professionally inspected as soon as possible is essential. Depending on the extent of the damage, the brick repair may be minor or more extensive. But catching the problem early can help prevent further damage to your bricks and extend their lifespan.
Tips on How to Repair Damaged Bricks
Bricks are a popular material for indoor and outdoor use but can be susceptible to damage. If you have a cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged brick, you may wonder how to repair it. Here are the essential tips for doing it:
- First, clean the area around the damaged brick. This will help you better understand the damage’s extent and make it easier to apply the repair materials.
- If the damage is minor, you may be able to simply fill in the cracks with mortar or another type of sealant. However, if the damage is more significant, you may need to replace the entire brick.
- When replacing a brick, it is vital to match the new brick to the existing one. You must pay attention to the bricks’ size, shape, and colour.
- Once you have the new brick, apply mortar to the back and press it into place. Make sure that the mortar is evenly distributed so that the new brick will stay in place.
- Allow the mortar to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
- To finish the repair, apply a sealant to the new brick. This will help protect it from future damage and match the appearance of the other bricks.
Conclusion
Masonry bricks can be easily damaged, and repair may be necessary. However, by following the proper repair procedures, you can quickly and easily fix your damaged masonry bricks. For more significant cracks, you may need to replace the entire brick.
Red Robin Masonry is Toronto’s most trusted masonry company. Our masonry services include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework and much more! We’re dedicated to providing our clients with the highest quality masonry services possible, and our experienced team is always available to answer any questions. Contact us today to understand more about our brick repair services in Mississauga.