Masonry repair is the process of addressing damage to brick and stone constructions like chimneys, concrete driveways, and heavy-duty brick walls. Masonry upkeep includes regular cleaning to remove dirt and grime, caulking cracks, and repointing as needed.
It is important to address structural issues quickly, especially when they involve mortar deteriorating and crumbling. A masonry professional should inspect any brick structure that displays signs of instability, such as a gaping expansion joint or noticeable differences between walls.
Cracks
There are a number of causes of cracking in concrete masonry walls. They can be due to drying shrinkage, temperature fluctuations and carbonation. They can also be caused by gravity loads and internal resistance within the masonry structure. Masonry cracks can be dormant or active. Dormant cracks remain constant in width and height. Active cracks increase in size with time and can cause serious structural damage if not repaired promptly.
Brick cracking isn’t a normal occurrence for Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina homes. Nevertheless, it is important to investigate any new cracks or any existing ones that lengthen or widen. This can be a sign of a sinking foundation or serious damage to building supports.
Cracks in brick wall are often a sign of serious structural problems and should be repaired as soon as possible. This will prevent the cracks from getting worse and may even prevent a potential collapse of the entire building. Depending on the severity and extent of the cracks, there are several ways in which they can be repaired. Cracks in brick or mortar can be fixed by cleaning the area, widening the crack slightly if it is very thin, and then filling it with a specialized masonry repair caulk. Alternatively, the cracked bricks can be removed and replaced with matching materials. This is a more expensive option, but will provide peace of mind and a smooth finish.
Chips
Brick masonry is very durable and strong, but it is not immune to damage. Depending on the severity, damage to brick can cause structural problems and require costly repair. Chipping is a common problem that can affect older brick structures. If left untreated, chips can lead to major deterioration and impact the overall stability of a structure.
If you notice chipping in your brick masonry, it is important to take action as soon as possible. Although they may not pose a serious threat, chips are an eyesore and can detract from the timeless beauty of brick. If you’re looking for ways to keep your brick in good condition, there are several simple repairs you can make at home.
While repairing minor cracks and chips is within the realm of many DIY-ers, hiring a professional for severely damaged brick and other masonry repairs may save you time and money in the long run. An experienced masonry contractor will have all the right tools and materials on hand to get your repairs done quickly and efficiently. They will also know all the do’s and don’ts of working with mortar, and can help you avoid costly mistakes. They will also be able to address issues like efflorescence and missing bricks that are outside the scope of the average homeowner’s knowledge.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is the powdery white substance that forms on concrete, bricks, pavers and other porous masonry surfaces. It develops when naturally occurring mineral salts move to the surface of the building material and dissolve in water. This water migrates through the material, carries the salt to the surface and then evaporates. While a nuisance, it’s harmless and can usually be easily removed. It’s important to note, however, that recurrence of this issue may be a warning sign of a larger moisture problem.
Jake Boyer, Business Unit Leader – Clean and Protect Group
When it comes to preventing or treating efflorescence, the first step is to find the source of water infiltration. This could be a problem in the soil around the structure, faulty rain gutters or poor drainage. A foundation specialist can help determine the cause and suggest solutions.
Jayson Kellos, Architectural Representative – Western Region, Hohmann & Barnard by MiTek
The next step is to eliminate the water sources that are contributing to the efflorescence. This could be as simple as ensuring that the building materials are properly ventilated or by applying an impregnating hydrophobic sealant. Using capillary breaks and installing overhanging copings and eaves can also minimize the risk of water entering a wall. If the occurrence of efflorescence continues after these steps have been taken, it may be time to call in a professional.
Dampness
One of the most serious problems in masonry is dampness. It can lead to plaster and brickwork damage and, if left untreated, may cause structural problems. Generally, it’s caused by a faulty damp proof course but poor site drainage and sub-floor ventilation can also contribute. Dampness is a huge health risk as it encourages mould, mildew and other harmful micro-organisms to grow. These can cause asthma, hayfever and other respiratory conditions in people who live or work in the building.
When a wall gets damp, the bricks and mortar soak up moisture like a sponge. This can erode the bricks and corrode the mortar joints. It can also deteriorate plaster and timber. In extreme cases, it can move bricks and stones in a wall, causing the structure to bulge outward. This is a major structural problem and needs to be repaired as soon as possible.
Usually, the first signs of rising damp are bubbling paint and powdery deposits on walls near to the floor. This is because the porous masonry walls have absorbed water from the ground and then drawn salts and minerals through it. This leaves behind the characteristic whitish, tide mark on the lower sections of the affected wall. The dampness will also erode the mortar joints, leaving them bare and crumbling. Regular masonry repair inspections should be carried out to identify any dampness before it causes serious damage.