Post by : Admin
14-Apr-2020
New building materials come and go, but conventional bricks have stood the test of time, and for a good reason; bricks are highly durable, they lend homes a great aesthetic, and they’re affordable too.
But maintaining brick walls requires a little effort. To ensure the longevity of your masonry, you must maintain it properly and protect it from the elements.
Moisture is the natural enemy of masonry. This largely because bricks are porous, which means that they tend to absorb water similarly to a sponge.
Bricks can be exposed to moisture due to faulty plumbing and rain, among many other factors. When there’s a rise in groundwater, the salt in this water can even become lodged in the cracks and crevices, causing the brickwork to deteriorate at a much faster rate.
Also, bricks that haven’t been baked correctly may have an imbalanced composition, which can make them prone to damage.
Here are some ways you can control moisture in your masonry building:
Not all bricks are made equal; some are better than others. Masonry experts will be able to advise you on the best type of bricks for your area. They should be both durable and aesthetically-pleasing.
Generally, bricks that are baked in direct, natural sunlight, tend to be more durable
Salt and other debris can prevent the water in the cracks of the brick from coming out.
Regular cleaning will ensure that salt and debris aren’t lodged in the crevices and cracks of the brick.
Loose dust can be removed easily with a non-wire bristle brush or a vacuum cleaner.
If there’s grime on your masonry, you can use a tri-sodium phosphate or diluted swimming pool chlorine to clear it out. Make sure to use a damp (not wet) scrub, however.
Notice any mold and mildew on your walls?
Mix a cup of bleach with a gallon of water and use a non-wire bristle brush to scrub the area.
Weatherproofing your external brick walls and damp proofing your interior walls by applying a layer of water-repellent material can prevent water from making its way into the cracks of your wall.
Need to weatherproof your masonry in your Connecticut home?
Get in touch with Creative Masonry!
We provide complete masonry services in Hartford, Granby, Bloomfield, Simsbury, Avon, Farmington, Bristol, and other nearby areas. We specialize in masonry building and repair; with our expertise, you can rest assured that your masonry will last.
Call (860) 225-9178 to book an appointment.
