Masonry structures like brick chimneys, concrete basements and cement driveways are durable, but they do need regular upkeep. If your masonry structure is showing signs of wear and tear, it’s important to hire a mason immediately.
It’s also crucial to understand the difference between masonry repair and restoration. Repairs address specific problems like cracking or chipping, while restoration involves replacing original materials to preserve historical buildings. Contact Charleston Masonry Repair now!
Masonry is a beautiful material that provides many benefits to buildings and homeowners. It adds to the aesthetic of a structure, increases its value, and is also energy efficient. However, brick masonry is prone to damage and requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Cracking, crumbling mortar, and discoloration are common signs of deterioration that should not be ignored. If these issues are not addressed, they can lead to expensive repairs and even structural damage.
Fortunately, there are many things you can do to keep your masonry in good condition and prevent damage from occurring. The most important step is to hire a qualified masonry contractor for regular inspections and maintenance. Using this service will help identify issues before they become serious and save you money in the long run.
Cracks in masonry walls are one of the most common problems that masons are called to repair. These cracks can appear in several ways, some minor and insignificant, others indicating major problems and requiring extensive repairs or even demolition. Often, they are caused by movement in the foundation that causes settlement or subsidence of the masonry walls. In other cases, they can be caused by water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles that cause the masonry to weaken.
Hairline cracks in masonry are usually not a problem, but they should be monitored and repaired as soon as they begin to widen. If left unattended, they can lead to further problems for the building and its occupants, such as leaks or pest invasions.
Larger cracks in masonry walls should be taken seriously and inspected by a professional masonry company as they may indicate more severe problems with the foundation or structural integrity of the building. They may also be a sign of subsidence or shifting of soil, which can be easily fixed by a mason.
Differential cracking in masonry walls occurs when different materials react differently to temperature changes and atmospheric pressures. This can be avoided by separating different types of materials and by using joint separators between them. Another cause of differential cracking is overload cracking, which can be avoided by ensuring that load-bearing capacities are not exceeded.
Excessive Moisture
While masonry is a durable building material that resists deterioration from many sources, it is susceptible to moisture intrusion. This can cause a wide range of problems including corrosion, mold, rotting, delamination, blistering and volumetric changes in masonry walls. It can also impact thermal performance, reduce the effectiveness of insulation materials and even lead to the formation of frost within a wall cavity.
The most common problem associated with moisture infiltration is damage to brick veneer. This is typically caused by excessive ponding water after a heavy rain event. In some cases, the puddles may remain in place for several days as they leach away at the lime in mortar joints and erode the surface of the brick. Eventually, the brick will break down and the condition of the wall can deteriorate significantly.
Once brick and masonry become saturated with water, it can be difficult to restore the wall. This often leads to the need for repointing which is a nuanced and complex trade that involves the removal of deteriorated mortar joints and replacement with fresh mortar. The proper choice of mortar mix and consistency is crucial to ensure compatibility with the original masonry while safeguarding against future water infiltration.
Moisture penetration can also lead to other problems in brick and masonry structures. This can include a reduction in the effectiveness of insulation materials, structural degradation, reduced fire resistance and the formation of mold and fungus. It can also lead to a wide variety of surface discolorations, including efflorescence and pitting of the brick.
Moisture intrusion can be exacerbated by poor construction techniques, cleaning methods and inadequate maintenance. For example, washing a masonry surface with acidic chemicals can weaken the mortar and expose it to increased water permeance. Sandblasting is another common restoration method that can increase facial separation cracks in masonry walls. These cracks, which can be visible to the naked eye, allow water to penetrate deeper into a wall and corrode the internal structure. The use of high-quality chemical cleaning products is also essential to minimize the impact on masonry.
Damaged Mortar Joints
Mortar joints are what hold bricks, stones, or concrete blocks together. Over time, they deteriorate from weathering and environmental factors, leading to damage. When the mortar deteriorates, it becomes weak, and cracks or gaps develop in the wall. These cracks and gaps allow water to seep into the brick or masonry structure, which causes further damage. Damaged mortar can also lead to a reduction in the stability of the brick wall, as well as a decrease in energy efficiency.
Regular repointing of brick walls helps to prevent the deterioration of mortar and bricks. In addition, it will improve the aesthetic of the structure and extend its lifespan. The first step to repointing a brick wall is identifying the type of damage. It’s important to inspect the entire structure, focusing on the mortar joints. After identifying the type of damage, a thorough inspection must be done to determine the best method for repair.
The most common method for repointing brick is called cold repointing. This technique is ideal for small areas of damage and requires no major demolition. It involves removing the old mortar from the wall with a cold chisel and hammer, clearing away damaged bricks, and refilling the joint.
When repointing brick, it is critical to wear proper safety equipment. This includes safety glasses or goggles, a dust mask, and rubber gloves to protect the eyes from flying debris and masonry dust. It is also essential to use a masonry utility chisel and hammer that has been shaped specifically for the job to avoid damaging the bricks or mortar. For larger jobs, an angle grinder can be used to speed up the process.
After removing the damaged mortar from the wall, it must be thoroughly cleaned with a wire brush to remove any remaining particles. Then the area must be dampened with a hose or bucket of water to wet the brickwork and prevent it from drying too quickly, which can cause improper curing. After the brick is damp, the tuckpointing trowel can be used to apply the new mortar. It’s important to match the new mortar to the existing mortar in color, texture, and thickness. After applying the new mortar, it must be compacted tightly.
Efflorescence
Brick chimneys, concrete basement walls, and masonry patios and porches are beautiful additions to the outside of buildings, but they can also become a source of concern when they start to show signs of deterioration. While crumbling bricks and missing mortar are the most obvious signs of trouble, there is another condition that can be just as damaging – efflorescence. Efflorescence is a chalky, white substance that appears on stone, concrete and masonry surfaces. It occurs when moisture is drawn into the masonry material by capillary action and becomes saturated with salts and minerals. When the water reaches the surface, it evaporates, leaving behind these deposits of crystalline salts. Typically, these are found on brick walls or other porous masonry structures but can also be present in concrete and tile.
Efflorescence is not a sign of structural damage or failure, but it does indicate that there is a potential for moisture problems in the structure. Moisture entering the masonry can lead to cracking and crumbling of the brick, as well as cause damage to mortar joints and other building materials. Therefore, it is essential to take steps to deal with the problem of moisture in masonry structures as soon as possible.
While the appearance of masonry efflorescence can be unsightly, there are many ways to remove it. A hose or pressure washer can be used to rinse the affected area. More difficult areas can be treated with chemical cleaners or sandblasting. However, sandblasting can be dangerous because the abrasive may erode the wall surface and mortar joints. If you decide to use a chemical cleaner, it is important to thoroughly rinse the surface with clean water afterward to remove any residual chemicals.
A hydrophobic sealant can be applied to a masonry surface to prevent the absorption of water. This type of sealant can also stop water from penetrating into a wall by creating a barrier between the building material and soil or ground water. Another way to reduce the risk of moisture penetration is to install capillary breaks, such as polyethylene sheeting, between a foundation or basement wall and the soil. Finally, quality masonry construction that includes overhanging copings and sills can help prevent moisture from entering a wall.