subject: Repairing Damaged Bricks - Information & Advice [print this page] Repairing Damaged Bricks - Information & Advice
Masonry is all around us, and damaged bricks are not only ugly but they are dangerous as well. Bricks are damaged all the time, but before rushing to the phone to call a contractor, it should be known that anyone can perform most brick repair jobs. Learning how to repair damaged bricks is a good money saver. Although a small crack in a brick may not be cause for alarm right away, it won't repair itself and will get worse over time. The crack can grow rapidly, just like a small chip in a car's windshield may soon become a crack running the length of the dashboard. And more often than not, one crack in a brick becomes many. These cracks are either active or passive. Active cracks will spread over time, often resulting in the replacement of the brick. Passive cracks do not spread and can often be repaired. Repointing is the method most often used when repairing damaged brick. It involves removing old mortar and replacing it with new. Repointing also requires tools such as a chisel, screwdriver, or drill to remove debris from the crack; therefore, it is best to use protective eyewear with all of the debris these tools will probably kick up. To more fully clear the crack of debris, spray it with some water to clear out the smallest particles. Before fully applying new mortar, place a small amount on a hidden part of the brick to be sure that the color matches. If it matches, use a trowel to spread and flatten the mortar on the brick. Many home improvement stores carry mortar used for brick repair. Be sure to spray the repair with water for one week. Keep a garden hose nearby during the repair, because it is important to keep it wet at this time as well. Sometimes residue is left over after the repair is finished, but it can be removed using muriatic acid. It is advisable to use protective eyewear and gloves while handling the material just to be on the safe side. Homeowners with experience of doing little jobs around their house you should not find brick repairs beyond them, however, those not at all familiar or comfortable with occasional home repairs might be better off calling in a professional brick contractor. Calling in a professional to repair just a couple of damaged bricks will not work out to be very cost effective though.
