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What Causes Mortar Deterioration in Brick Walls?

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Mortar is a crucial component in masonry construction, binding bricks together and providing structural stability. Over time, however, mortar can deteriorate, compromising the integrity and appearance of brick walls. Understanding the factors that contribute to mortar deterioration is essential for maintaining and preserving masonry structures. This article explores the common causes of mortar deterioration, including weather conditions, building age, and poor initial construction.

Weather Conditions

One of the primary causes of mortar deterioration is exposure to harsh weather conditions. Weather plays a significant role in the wear and tear of mortar joints, as they are directly exposed to the elements.

  1. Freeze-Thaw Cycles: In regions with cold climates, freeze-thaw cycles are a major cause of mortar deterioration. When water enters the mortar joints and subsequently freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the mortar. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can cause the mortar to crack and crumble, leading to significant damage over time.
  2. Moisture and Humidity: Prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken mortar by causing it to soften and degrade. This is particularly problematic in humid climates or areas with high rainfall. Moisture can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, further deteriorating the mortar.
  3. Sunlight and UV Radiation: Continuous exposure to sunlight and UV radiation can cause the mortar to dry out and lose its binding properties. This can lead to shrinkage and cracking, making the mortar more susceptible to other forms of damage.

Building Age

The age of a building is another critical factor in mortar deterioration. As buildings age, the materials used in their construction, including mortar, naturally degrade.

  1. Material Fatigue: Over time, the constant stress and strain on mortar joints can cause them to weaken. Older mortar may lose its elasticity and ability to expand and contract with temperature changes, leading to cracks and gaps.
  2. Historical Mortar Composition: Older buildings often use lime-based mortar, which is softer and more flexible than modern cement-based mortar. While lime mortar has its advantages, such as better breathability, it is also more susceptible to erosion and degradation over time.
  3. Settling and Movement: As buildings settle, the stress on mortar joints increases. This movement can cause cracks in both the mortar and the bricks, exacerbating the deterioration process.

Poor Initial Construction

The quality of the initial construction can significantly impact the longevity and durability of mortar. Poor workmanship or the use of substandard materials can lead to premature deterioration.

  1. Improper Mixing: The ratio of ingredients in the mortar mix is crucial for its strength and durability. Incorrect proportions can lead to weak mortar that is prone to crumbling and cracking.
  2. Inadequate Curing: Proper curing is essential for mortar to achieve its full strength. If the mortar is not allowed to cure properly, it may not set correctly, leading to reduced durability and increased susceptibility to damage.
  3. Inconsistent Application: Uneven application of mortar during construction can create weak points in the masonry. These weak points are more vulnerable to environmental factors and can deteriorate faster than well-applied mortar.

Conclusion

Mortar deterioration is a common issue in masonry structures, influenced by various factors such as weather conditions, building age, and the quality of the initial construction. Regular maintenance and inspection are crucial to identifying early signs of deterioration and addressing them before they lead to more significant problems. By understanding the causes of mortar deterioration, property owners can take proactive measures to preserve the integrity and beauty of their brickwork, ensuring the longevity of their buildings.

How Often Should You Repoint Brickwork?

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Repointing brickwork is an essential maintenance task that involves renewing the external part of the mortar joints between bricks. Mortar joints can deteriorate over time due to various factors such as weather conditions, age, and poor initial construction. Knowing when and how often to repoint brickwork can help maintain the structural integrity and appearance of a building. This article provides a guide on the signs indicating the need for repointing, the recommended frequency, and the long-term benefits of regular maintenance.

Signs That Indicate the Need for Repointing

Identifying when brickwork needs repointing is crucial for preventing further damage. Here are some key signs to look out for:

  1. Cracked or Crumbling Mortar: One of the most obvious signs that repointing is needed is the presence of cracks or crumbling in the mortar joints. This indicates that the mortar has lost its binding properties and is no longer effectively holding the bricks together.
  2. Gaps in Mortar Joints: Gaps or missing sections of mortar can allow water to penetrate the brickwork, leading to internal damage and potential structural issues. This is a clear indication that repointing is necessary.
  3. Dampness or Efflorescence: The appearance of white, powdery deposits (efflorescence) on the surface of bricks is a sign of moisture infiltration. This can occur when mortar joints are compromised, allowing water to seep in and dissolve salts within the bricks.
  4. Loose Bricks: If bricks become loose or are easy to move, it is a sign that the mortar has deteriorated significantly. This can pose a safety hazard and requires immediate attention.
  5. Visible Weathering: Over time, weathering can cause the mortar to erode, especially in areas exposed to harsh weather conditions. If the mortar appears significantly recessed compared to the bricks, repointing may be necessary.

How Often Should Repointing Be Done?

The frequency of repointing depends on several factors, including the type of mortar used, the exposure to weather conditions, and the quality of the original work. Generally, well-maintained brickwork with quality mortar can last between 50 to 100 years before needing significant repointing. However, certain circumstances may necessitate more frequent attention:

  1. Harsh Weather Conditions: In regions with severe weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall, frost, or high humidity, mortar joints may deteriorate more quickly. In such cases, regular inspections every 10 to 20 years are recommended.
  2. Historical or Aged Buildings: Older buildings, especially those constructed with lime mortar, may require more frequent repointing due to the softer nature of the mortar and the historical value of preserving the structure.
  3. Poor Initial Construction: Buildings with poorly executed mortar work may need repointing sooner. Regular inspections can help identify issues early and prevent further deterioration.

Long-Term Benefits of Regular Repointing

Regular repointing offers several long-term benefits for maintaining brickwork:

  1. Preservation of Structural Integrity: Repointing restores the strength of the mortar joints, helping to maintain the structural stability of the building and prevent potential hazards.
  2. Protection Against Moisture: By sealing gaps and cracks, repointing prevents water from penetrating the brickwork, reducing the risk of internal damage, mold growth, and frost damage.
  3. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Freshly repointed mortar improves the appearance of the brickwork, giving the building a well-maintained and attractive look.
  4. Increased Property Value: Well-maintained brickwork can enhance the overall value of a property, making it more appealing to potential buyers.

In conclusion, regular inspection and timely repointing of brickwork are essential for maintaining the durability and appearance of a building. By addressing mortar deterioration early, homeowners can protect their property from long-term damage and ensure it remains in excellent condition for years to come.

What is the Purpose of Tuckpointing?

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pile of bricks laid in a row

Tuckpointing, often seen as a subtle yet vital aspect of masonry, serves multiple essential purposes in maintaining the integrity, longevity, and overall look of brick structures. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the purpose of tuckpointing, backed by expert insights, to help you understand why this specialized craft is an important part of preserving brickwork.

Why is Tuckpointing Important for the Longevity of Brick Walls?

Tuckpointing is essential for maintaining the longevity of brick walls. Brick structures owe much of their stability to the mortar joints that hold them together. Over time, these joints can deteriorate due to exposure to the elements as well as natural wear and tear that comes with aging. Deterioration can compromise the structural integrity of the entire wall. Prompt tuckpointing prevents further harm to the bricks by distributing weight and stress evenly, reducing the risk of structural problems, and extending the life of the entire wall.

How Does Tuckpointing Help in Weatherproofing Brick Structures?

Tuckpointing is essential for weatherproofing brickwork. Weather can be harsh, and it is critical to protect brick structures from moisture infiltration.

Tuckpointing is essential for weatherproofing brickwork.  Weather can be harsh, and it is critical to protect brick structures from moisture infiltration.  Mortar joints act as a barrier against moisture, preventing water from penetrating the brickwork. When these joints deteriorate, they can allow water to seep into the wall, causing damage and even promoting mold growth. Tuckpointing plays a pivotal role in weatherproofing brick structures. During the tuckpointing process, old, deteriorated mortar is removed, and new mortar is applied, creating a tight seal in order to prevent moisture from getting into the wall.

What Role Does Tuckpointing Play in Enhancing the Curb Appeal of a Property?

Enhancing the curb appeal of a property is another significant tuckpointing purpose. Deteriorated mortar joints can make brickwork look aged, worn, and neglected, negatively impacting the overall aesthetic. Skilled tuckpointing involves using contrasting mortar colors, creating crisp, clean lines that restore the beauty of the brick. Whether you are a homeowner looking to enhance your property’s aesthetics or a property manager aiming to maintain the building’s curb appeal, tuckpointing can make a substantial difference.

How Can Tuckpointing Extend the Life of Your Bricks?

Ultimately, tuckpointing purpose is to extend the life of the bricks themselves. While bricks are known for their durability, they are not impervious to the effects of time and weather. Well-maintained mortar joints provide crucial support to the bricks, ensuring they remain stable and functional for decades. By preventing further damage to the bricks and maintaining their stability, tuckpointing ensures that your bricks can withstand the test of time. It is a proactive measure that can prevent the need for more extensive brick replacements or repairs down the road.

In conclusion, tuckpointing is a multifaceted solution that goes beyond mere maintenance. It preserves brick longevity, weather resistance, and visual appeal. It is an indispensable part of preserving the integrity and aesthetics of brick structures, making them stand strong and remain attractive for years to come.

How to Repair Brick Steps

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bricklayer fixing brick steps

Thanks to their charming, classic appearance, brick steps can really increase the curb appeal of your home. But like any other brick structure, they need to be cared for in order to keep them looking their best.

How to fix mortar in brick steps

If you find that the mortar between your brick steps is cracked and missing, you need to promptly repair them in order to prevent additional damage to the bricks or to the structural integrity of the steps. Mortar deteriorates naturally over time, but sometimes cracking and crumbling occurs when the wrong type of mortar was used or because the steps don’t have proper support. The way to go about repairing the mortar in brick steps can depend on what is causing the problems.

If the mortar between your brick steps is cracked and crumbling due to natural deterioration or because the wrong type of mortar was used, repointing is a great option to repair the joints. In repointing, the old mortar is removed and replaced with new mortar. This process involves several steps but is an inexpensive project for homeowners armed with the right tools and knowledge. The basic steps involved are:

  1. Cut out the masonry joints with a grinder then clean up the dust and debris.
  2. Mix up new mortar – type N is a softer, more flexible mortar that works great for brick steps.
  3. Fill the joints with the new mortar using a grout bag or masonry trowel.
  4. Press the mortar into the joints with a flat jointer.
  5. Gently brush off excess mortar.
  6. Run the flat jointer over the mortar to slick the joint, ensuring that it is sealed and waterproof.

While repointing works well when only the mortar joints need to be repaired, alternative action needs to be taken if your steps are separating or you have bricks that are loose or damaged.

How to repair brick steps

Whether you need to do brick repairs or simply reattach loose bricks, many of the same repointing steps can be followed. If your bricks are crumbling, they will need to be chiseled out, and you will need to get new bricks to match the color and style of the existing bricks. When placing the bricks into the stairs, it is essential that they are flush and level with the adjacent bricks. Pack the holes in the brick with mortar to help bonding the bricks together and use a rubber mallet and a level or straightedge to make sure everything is square.

If your brick steps are pulling away from your home, it could be a result of natural settling or a more serious foundation problem. Sometimes brick ties or jacking can be used to fix this problem, but in severe cases, the whole set of stairs may need to be rebuilt. It’s a good idea to have a professional evaluate the problem and potential solutions because uneven or sloping brick steps can pose a safety risk.

How to Repair Brick Mortar

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brick wall with a lot of damage

Brick is a charming and enduring material that has been used by builders for centuries. However, when the mortar between the bricks starts to crack and deteriorate, prompt repairs need to be done to ensure that the brick remains intact and lasts for years to come.

How to fix cracked mortar between bricks

The type of repairs the mortar needs will depend on the size and scope of the cracks. A scattering of small, surface level cracks in the mortar is normal and not usually cause for concern, although fixing cracked mortar in bricks will help slow down further deterioration. If the mortar between your bricks just has some hairline cracks in a few places, then brick caulking could be an option to fix them and prevent them from getting bigger. Even small cracks can lead to water infiltration, so applying a waterproof brick caulk will seal the cracks and stop moisture from seeping in. Although brick caulking is a great quick fix for small superficial cracks, it isn’t going to work for larger cracks or crumbling mortar. 

How to fix crumbling mortar between bricks

Larger cracks and crumbling mortar in multiple areas need to be swiftly addressed to avert any further damage to the brick and mortar. Repointing and tuckpointing are two methods for fixing brick mortar that is cracked and crumbling. Repointing is the process of repairing damaged mortar by removing it and filling it with new mortar. Tuckpointing is a similar process where the deteriorated mortar is removed, and the mortar joints are filled with mortar that closely matches the color of the bricks. A second, narrow line of mortar in a contrasting color is then applied down the center of the mortar joints. Repointing is a good option if you just need to repair the bricks, but tuckpointing increases the aesthetics of your structure by giving your brick a crisp, clean appearance that helps give it a fresh look.

What to use to repair brick mortar

When you find yourself in need of brick mortar repair, it is important to utilize the right tools and materials for the job. Because older brick and mortar were made from softer materials, it is imperative that you use the right type and strength of mortar, so your brick and the integrity of your structure aren’t compromised. There are four main types of mortar mix – N,O, S, and M. Each type has different ratios of sand, cement, and lime to create mortar that has differing levels of flexibility, bonding properties, and compressive strength. Choose a mortar mix that will work for the type and age of your structure, the location of the repairs being made, and your local climate. Specialized tools such as an angle grinder with diamond blade, a tuckpointing trowel, a hawk board, and a jointer tool will be beneficial if you decide to tackle the project yourself.

How much does tuckpointing brick cost?

Because of the precision and expertise needed for tuckpointing brick, it’s a good idea to think about hiring a professional tuckpointing company. If you decide to have a professional handle the job, know that you will most likely receive an estimate based on the square footage of the area you need fixed. Repointing costs are cheaper, at around $3 to $15 per square foot. Brick tuckpointing requires more labor, which typically makes up the majority of the cost, and ranges from $5 to $25 per square foot. Factors such as the height, size, and shape of your home, as well as the condition of the brick, can affect the final costs.

While some basic maintenance and repairs are easily completed by handy homeowners, there are a lot of components to consider when choosing the right fix, tools, and materials. Consider hiring a professional to complete the job to ensure that further damage isn’t done that affects the integrity and stability of your brick.

 

The Art of Brickwork Repair: Preserving Structural Integrity with Skill

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brick wall lit by a light

Brick is a timeless and long-lasting building material that has been used to build many structures throughout history due to its strength, durability, and beauty, along with its insulating and fire-resistant qualities. Although brick is sturdy and enduring, it does require regular maintenance and repair to counteract the effects of moisture, weathering, and other environmental factors. Whether the mortar is deteriorating, or the bricks are cracking and crumbling, you must address any problems directly in order to prevent further damage to the brick and avoid structural integrity issues.

Patching Brick Mortar

If your bricks are still completely intact, but the mortar between them has begun to show signs of deterioration, you have some options for just patching or repairing the mortar joints. The type of fix needed will depend on the severity of the mortar degradation, but it is imperative that you get it taken care of as quickly as possible. The longer mortar is left to break down, the more issues it can cause in the long run. Mortar that contains cracks or is crumbling will allow more moisture in, which can cause damage to the bricks or result in mold, mildew, or wood rot. Over time, this can affect the stability and integrity of the structure. It’s best to stop these problems before they ever start, so caulking or mortaring bricks is a critical part of maintaining a brick home. Brick caulking, repointing, and tuckpointing are all remedies for mortar that is failing. Which option you choose will depend on if your mortar has minimal cracks or if it has large cracks and is crumbling, as well as aesthetic preference.

Brick Caulking

Brick caulking is the simplest, cheapest fix for repairing brick mortar but is only an option for isolated, hairline cracks. It is not going to be sufficient for larger cracks and crumbling mortar across multiple areas. However, if you have just begun to notice small surface cracks in a few places and want a quick fix, brick caulking could work to slow down further deterioration. Make sure to use a caulk that is specifically designed for brick. The standard caulk that you use on your bathtub or around your windows isn’t going to cut it, and exterior trim caulk is only appropriate for areas where the trim and the brick meet. Using a waterproof brick caulk, also called concrete caulk or mortar caulk, that is designed to adhere to masonry helps to seal tiny cracks in the brick and mortar and can prevent moisture from seeping in thus causing further damage.

Brick caulk comes in many different varieties, so there are several factors to consider when deciding which one to use, including local weather and climate; if it is connected to anything (such as windows, doors, trim, or other bricks); and the material of the surface (e.g., painted or unpainted, porous or nonporous). The color of brick caulk can vary by manufacturer, with some offering dyed options. If you will be putting it on a painted surface, you need to ensure the caulk you use is paintable. Caulk can be applied using a caulking gun or caulk tube, so take application into consideration as well.

How to Repair Brick Mortar

When your brick mortar requires more repair than a bit of caulking will fix, then it is time to look into repointing or tuckpointing your brick. Repointing and tuckpointing are both methods of repairing the mortar joints in brick and become necessary when the mortar is deteriorating to the point of crumbling and falling out of the cracks in order to prevent further damage to the brick and mortar. Repointing is the process of repairing deteriorating mortar by removing it from joints and replacing it with new mortar, whereas tuckpointing is the process of repairing damaged mortar by removing it, replacing it with new mortar in a color that closely matches that of the bricks, and then filling the center of the new mortar joint with a straight, thin line of mortar in a contrasting color. In tuckpointing, because the first layer of mortar blends with the color of the bricks, the contrasting fillets serve to give the wall a crisp, clean appearance. Repointing, on the other hand, typically gives the mortar joints a soft, wavy look because the edges of the bricks won’t be square, a fact which the repointed mortar will only serve to highlight.  Tuckpointing is typically done to repair damaged mortar, but it can also be used to simply enhance the aesthetics of a structure or as a preventative measure against future damage.

Repointing and tuckpointing can both be done as do-it-yourself projects, although using professionals to complete the job will likely result in a more polished finished product. Tuckpointing, especially, is a time and labor-intensive process that requires a great deal of precision to create the illusion of perfectly straight mortar joints. If the fillets are crooked or off center, the whole project is going to look sloppy. Also, the new mortar being applied needs to be weaker than the bricks or it can destroy them over time. Additionally, if bricks need to be replaced, especially in exterior walls, it is definitely a job for a professional mason or tuckpointing contractor. Because these walls are often load-bearing, the integrity of your home could be affected if the repairs aren’t handled correctly.

Whether you choose to hire a professional or DIY the project, there are some basic steps to the tuckpointing process.

  1. Deteriorating mortar needs to be removed to a depth of ¾ to 1 inch using a hammer and chisel or specialized tools such as a raker bar, angle grinder, or tuckpoint grinder.
  2. Once the damaged mortar is cleared out, clean up the dust and debris to allow the new mortar to bond better.
  3. Mix up the new mortar, so it is weaker than the bricks and closely matches them in color. Adding dye or pigment to the mix will help you achieve this, but it could be a time-consuming process to get it just right.
  4. When the mortar is mixed up to the correct consistency and color, it’s time to fill in the joints using a tuckpointing trowel and hawk board. Horizontal joints should be filled first, followed by the vertical ones.
  5. Smooth the mortar to match the existing joint type using a jointer tool.
  6. Wait until the mortar has hardened slightly, then use a brush to clean excess mortar from the bricks.
  7. While the mortar is still pliable, make straight grooves down the center of the joint.
  8. Apply the contrasting putty to the center of the grooves to form the fillets, cleaning up any excess to ensure straight, even lines.

What to Use to Repair Brick Mortar

If you need to repoint or tuckpoint brick, you need to make sure you have the proper materials to complete the repairs. There are a variety of mortar mix types, so it is important to research which one will work best for your project. Mortar mix is categorized into four main types – N, O, S, and M – based on the ratio of cement, lime, and sand used to produce varying levels of bonding properties, flexibility, and compressive strength. When choosing which type is most appropriate for your repair, it is important to take into account climate, the age of your structure, the location of the repairs being made, and the type of structure you will be using it on. Type N is considered to be a general purpose mix that can be used on interior and exterior structures and is the mortar that is most popular among homeowners. Using the correct mortar mix, along with the proper tools, is imperative to completing the job correctly and making sure you don’t cause more damage to your structure.

Brick Repair

While brick caulking, repointing, or tuckpointing are sometimes all it takes to repair damage and restore the beauty of your home, there are times when they just aren’t enough. When brick and mortar repair are both required, the task becomes far more arduous. It requires specialized tools and knowledge to ensure that the repairs are completed correctly in order to prevent further harm. Exterior and other load-bearing walls can be compromised if brick repair isn’t done correctly, so it might be a good idea to open your preferred search engine and type in “brick wall repairs near me” to find a local professional that can safely restore your brick. Or, if your project is less sensitive, and you think you might be able to handle the job yourself, it’s best to understand the basic steps required to do it.

  • Remove the damaged brick: Use a chisel and hammer to break up the damaged brick and surrounding mortar into pieces and then remove them. You could also drill small holes in the center of the brick first to help get the process started. Be careful not to damage any of the other brick and mortar around the area. After you have removed all of the pieces, clean out all of the dust and dirt then rinse the entire area with water.
  • Mix and apply the mortar: Mix up the mortar you will use, making sure to match the existing mortar color as closely as possible. Use a pointing trowel, apply a 1-inch layer of mortar to the bottom of the opening as well as the top and ends of the new brick.
  • Insert the replacement brick: Set the brick on top of the pointing trowel. Slide the trowel and brick into the cavity then slide the brick into the recessed area, holding the trowel on the mortar to prevent it from being disturbed. Work the brick around to try to make the mortar joints even then use a straightedge to push the brick level with the wall.
  • Tool the joints: After the mortar has hardened slightly, scrape or brush off excess mortar. Once the mortar is hardened to the point of being able to just dent it with a little pressure, use a jointer tool to tool the joints so that they match the style of the original joints.

Whether you need to repair or replace brick and mortar, it is important to understand when and why it needs to be done. When in doubt, consult a professional to help you with whatever repairs your brick structure may need. It is important to maintain your brick and complete repairs promptly and accurately to preserve its integrity and beauty for years to come.

Sealing A Brick House

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If you own a brick house, then you’re well aware of the dangers of moisture damage to brick. If you don’t own a brick house but are thinking about purchasing one, it’s important that you understand this durable material. The biggest enemy to any form of masonry is moisture. Bricks are porous, and as such, they are prone to absorbing water and cracking or crumbling. The same goes for mortar. 

One of the best ways to protect your brick house from moisture damage is by sealing it. Sealing a brick house can help prevent any issues that you may have with water damage for a period of time. Learn all about sealing a brick house here!

Step 1: Inspect the House

If you’re considering sealing your house, you’ll need to inspect it to make sure that sealing it is suitable. Then, you’ll need to prep it for sealing. When inspecting the home, look for the following issues that may be present:

  • Mold or mildew buildup
  • Crumbling or cracking in the bricks or mortar
  • Salt lines from flooding
  • Creeping plants, like ivy
  • Areas with heavy dirt or mineral deposits
  • Old paint

If you notice that your brick and mortar are heavily damaged, either through cracking or crumbling, sealing your house may not be the first thing you should do. The house may need to be tuckpointed, or repaired further. If so, give us a call. If your home seems to be in good condition, then you’ll be ready to prep it.

Step 2: Prep the Brick

Preparing the brick is an important step. As bricks are porous, it can be assumed that they’ll absorb things like moisture and dirt over time. They may also have residual sealant in them if they’ve been sealed before. As such, it’s important to wash them and prepare them for sealing. To wash the brick, follow the steps below:

  1. Remove any dirt, debris, or old paint from the surface gently
  2. Pull back any debris from the bottom layers of brick
  3. Apply a mildew and mold remover using a scrub brush
  4. Power wash the brick from top to bottom, making sure to wash away any dirty water
  5. Allow the brick to dry completely

Once you’ve finished prepping the brick, it’s time to get the workspace ready.

Step 3: Protecting Surfaces and Yourself

Treat your house as if you’re painting it. That means covering things surrounding the house with drop cloths, taping off windows and doors, and wearing eye protection, a mask, and rubber gloves. If you’ve done all that, then you’re ready to seal.

Step 4: Seal the Brick

You can use a pump sprayer or the traditional method of a roller to apply brick sealant. Regardless, make sure that you coat the surfaces evenly, and allow them to dry completely. Temperatures need to be between 40 and 90 degrees fahrenheit for proper application, and the sealer needs to be allowed to dry without weather interference.

Key Takeaways

Sealing brick is a great way to keep your home in great shape for years to come. However, not all homes are ready to be sealed. If the masonry surfaces of your home need repair, be sure to give us a call. We can help you get your brick tuckpointed, and get it in the best shape before being sealed!