subject: Repairing Brick Veneer Siding [print this page] The do-it-yourself homeowner can do his own brick siding repair work, but doing it right is a challenge. Many modern homes are actually constructed with wood that is covered with brick siding that is actually a veneer - this is a much safer job. If your home is true brick construction, the brick is a load-bearing wall and you should enlist the services of a professional. On the other hand, some newer brick faced homes are actually faux brick veneer, which is composed of fiber cement made to look like brick. Check carefully!
You'll need a matching brick, masonry trowel, hammer, chisel, water in a spray bottle, a small bucket of water and mixed mortar that is water resistant. Respect flying debris throughout the process by always wearing safety goggles.
Replace a crumbled brick or two by following these steps.
Remove the damaged brick. Carefully chisel out the old brick by breaking it up with the hammer and chisel. Remove the surrounding mortar the same way. Use caution to avoid damaging adjacent bricks or your project will quickly grow.
Clean out debris. The hole in the wall should be completely free from chunks of brick and mortar. Blow out the dust for a clean surface.
Apply mortar. Trowel in mortar on the sides and bottom of the hole as thick as the mortar used around the other bricks. This will probably require about an inch thickness.
Prepare the new brick. Soak the new brick briefly in water to allow it to absorb mortar. Add an inch of mortar to the top of the brick.
Insert the new brick into the hole. Carefully slide the brick into the open slot. Use your trowel and a damp cloth to remove any mortar that is pushed forward. Match the depth of mortar indentation to the surrounding bricks with your finger. Remove all excess mortar or it will harden permanently onto the face of the wall.
