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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.

 

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!

Should I Paint My Exposed Brick Walls?

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One of the most timeless looks in any home is an exposed brick wall. It shows the craftsmanship that went into the home, and adds great texture to any room. What’s more is that true exposed brick walls are a conversation starter. Not many people’s homes have legitimate exposed brick in them these days – construction methods have changed, and so have the qualities of brick. As such, an old brick wall in the home looks good.

However, a big trend in interior design as of late is painting these beautiful walls. Sure, there are some benefits to this, but should an exposed brick wall be painted? While it’s entirely up to the owner, of course, there are some things that you should consider before painting your exposed brick. Take a look at what we have to say about it.

The Case for Leaving Exposed Brick Exposed

While painted brick walls are trendy and in style, they aren’t the smartest decision to make when it comes to the well-being of your home, or the brick that’s in it. Here are some great reasons as to why your interior exposed brick should remain unpainted.

Paint is Moist, Moisture Means Damage

While there are paints that are made specifically for painting masonry, most payments don’t take into consideration the issues that brick will have with moisture. When exposed to constant moisture, brick is prone to cracking and crumbling. Paint is, in fact, moist. When you paint a brick wall, you run the risk of causing serious damage to it.

Painted Brick Can’t Be Undone

When you paint a surface, it isn’t always permanent. In most cases, you can remove the paint with some sandpaper and some elbow grease. When you paint brick, you can’t go back. Paint on brick is a permanent solution, as the removal of the paint will damage the brick. If you want to change the look of your painted brick, you’ll have to choose a different paint color, because removing the paint will do irreparable damage to the masonry nine times out of ten.

It’s A Lot of Work

Painting brick in the first place requires a lot of work. Prepping and priming brick for painting takes more effort than pretty much any other surface, and it can’t be rushed. Sealing the brick is the first step in this process, and if overlooked, the brick will suffer. Then, before being able to paint, a specific masonry primer will need to be applied as well. Then, the upkeep with the painted brick will be an effort, as well. It’s entirely likely that even when proper steps are taken, the brick will suffer water damage.

Key Takeaways

Should exposed brick walls be painted? We don’t think so. However, if you’re considering going the route of painting your brick, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll go over the process in detail with you, and we’ll be able to come take a look before you paint. That way you’ll know if your brick is up to it or not.

Cracked Mortar: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

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Bricks can last hundreds of years.  The mortar between them? Not so much.  In fact, mortar generally has a life of around 30 years.  Over time, the harsh weather and elements take their toll on mortar, leaving it cracked and deteriorating.  They’re unsightly for sure, but cracks in your mortar can result in more than just lowered curb appeal. Cracks in mortar can let water get in.  If water gets through the cracks, mortar will deteriorate more quickly, water will get into your walls and you could find yourself dealing with an expensive mold removal bill.  When the water freezes during the colder months, it expands causing further damage to the chimney or brick walls. Heat can also escape through these cracks affecting the efficiency of your heating.    

Mortar contributes to the stability of your chimney and walls.  If the deterioration is ignored, it can lead to an all-out collapse.

If you’ve got a newer house and you think you don’t have to worry about your mortar cracking for years to come, think again.  Sometimes cracking happens in mortar in newer homes when cheaper materials were used in their construction especially prefabricated homes.

Time for Tuckpointing

Obviously, dismantling the chimney or wall for a complete rebuild would be extremely expensive.  That’s why most people opt for tuckpointing instead. Tuckpointing involves removing the old, damaged mortar and replacing it with fresh, new mortar.  The mortar is removed using a grinder and replaced with mortar that is the color of the brick. Grooves are cut into the new mortar and they are filled with mortar that matches the original mortar color.  Tuckpointing can be done in a small area or a complete wall or entire chimney.  

Tuckpointing keeps the water out and prevents further corrosion to the existing mortar.  It also restores the structural integrity of the chimney itself so you don’t have to worry about a collapse later on down the line.

Some people use tuckpointing as a way to renew their chimney and brickwork.  It can be used for cosmetic purposes to make the chimney or siding look refreshed and new and increase curb appeal and the value of the home.  Doing a complete tuckpointing of an exterior wall can make it look completely restored and refreshed.

Tuckpointing is a cost-effective way to repair ugly damage to brickwork but it can’t be done at any time.  If not caught in time, the damage to the structural integrity of the walls or chimney will be too great to be repaired in this way safely.

If your brickwork has seen better days, call Marlon Tuckpointing.  Whether you have an old chimney that needs to be repaired or your brick-sided home is showing signs of mortar deterioration, Marlon Tuckpointing is ready to help.   We provide complete and spot tuckpointing services as well as chimney repairs, caulking, waterproofing, brickwork, and repairs to chimney caps and flashing. For questions or a free estimate call Marlon Tuckpointing LLC at (314)496-9067.