Bricks are a great choice for construction. They have that neat authentic look in addition to being some of the most durable constructions materials available. The fact that bricks are so durable and sturdy doesn’t mean they’re indestructible till the end of time. As the years pass by you might start to realize that the bricks making up your home don’t look the same way they used to several years ago. That’s when you’ll need brick repair services.
When that happens, you’re going to need to call a mason to come take a look. The mason will decide whether the bricks can simple be repaired or if the structure needs rebuilding because repairs just won’t suffice right now. So, how does a mason decide if a repair job will do or if rebuilding is needed and what are the issues faced?
Mortar
The type of mortar to be used in the brick repair job is essential to the mason’s decision. There are different types of mortar. If the repair job is going to need the same type of mortar as that already there, then repairs can be done. Alternatively, if a different type of mortar will be used then the structure might need rebuilding as it’s never a good idea to have different types of mortar in the same structure.
Joints
Improperly installed or positioned mortar joints can cause damage to bricks over time. On realizing that the damage is due to a faulty joint, repointing of the wall is done in order to fix the joint. The bricks can then be repaired.
Replacing Missing Bricks
Buying an old house can be complicated. One reason it can be complicated is that the masonry work isn’t always perfect, but it’s recommended that you repair it and keep it the way it is. For example if you buy a house with missing bricks, you’ll want to replace them, but finding matching bricks can be tricky.
One place to look is at salvage companies that gather bricks from demolished old structures. You might be able to find what you’re looking for there if the bricks used in the house you purchased are hard to find. Another option would be to buy specialized bricks that are handmade and can therefore look almost identical to those in your house for a complimentary look.
Matching Colors of Mortar
When a repair job is done, new mortar is used. New mortar usually has a different color than the pre-existing older mortar. This can make the repair job seem patchy and obvious to guests. Treating new mortar with substances like lime or stucco can take care of the discrepancy in colors so that the old matches the new. A good repair job is one that no one can identify because it fits so perfectly with its surroundings.
Hire Brick Repair Experts
Brick repair can be a lengthy process, but hiring the right mason can make it easy and short-lived. An experienced mason will also make sure that no one, but you, can tell that there was anything to repair in the first place.
