Masonry is used throughout the world to construct buildings. It’s a durable material, but it requires maintenance and repair like anything.
Charleston Masonry Repair includes patching gaps in mortar and repairing or replacing bricks and mortar that have lost their structural integrity. It also involves repointing and matching any new materials to the existing ones.
Masonry is a very skilled craft that requires years of practice to master. In addition to learning how to chisel and shape the stone or brick, masons also need to understand how materials react to certain conditions. This includes the way that brick and mortar absorb and expand over time as they experience changes in temperature or moisture.
Cracks and chips in masonry are not only unsightly, but they can lead to structural damage if not addressed. Masonry repair involves the use of patching and repointing techniques to fix these issues.
The first step in addressing these problems is to identify the type of crack. Hairline vertical cracks that don’t grow are often not a cause for concern, but wider cracks could indicate a problem with the foundation or load-bearing capacity of the structure and should be looked at by a professional.
If the cracks are in the mortar joints, repointing is the recommended solution. This process involves removing the damaged mortar and replacing it with new, high-quality mortar to prevent moisture infiltration and ensure that the gaps between concrete block walls are properly sealed. This improves the appearance of the wall, as well as helping to prevent the occurrence of efflorescence, which is caused by water carrying soluble salts through the masonry wall and onto its surface.
Another common problem is the formation of re-entrant corner cracks. These are typically found in structures that were built with squared off corners and can occur due to a combination of pressure from the outside of the building, overloading the wall, or deterioration of the brick and mortar.
To address these problems, the cracked areas need to be cleaned thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. Once the area is clean, the cracks can be filled with a masonry repair product. The best choice is a grout or mortar mix that is color matched to the surrounding masonry for a seamless finish. Cracks that are in the mortar joint should be repaired using a crack-stitching technique that uses specialized PROSOCO Stitch-Tie bars and SureGrout to bridge the cracks and secure the masonry.
Reactive Soil
Brick chimneys, concrete basements, and cement driveways are common forms of masonry construction around the world. However, these structures can be prone to damage from a variety of factors including climatic conditions and structural movement. Masonry repair is an essential part of maintaining a building’s integrity and safety. The best way to prevent costly structural problems is by timely recognition and response. Early signs of masonry damage include visible cracks, loose or crumbling bricks and mortar, and efflorescence (a white, chalky substance that appears on the surface of a brick).
While regular maintenance can help to prolong the life of a masonry structure, eventually it will require repairs and restoration. A professional masonry inspection will reveal the extent of the damage and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
Soil plays a critical role in the health of a building and its foundations. Some types of soil are more reactive than others. Reactive soils are clay-based, which means that they swell when wet and shrink when dry. When this occurs, it puts a huge amount of stress on the foundations and the masonry of the building. If left unaddressed, this can lead to major problems that could render a building unsafe or even impossible to live in.
If a property has reactive soil, the first step is to get a site soil test. The results of this will allow a builder to design the footings and slab according to the site’s soil classification. This prevents the building from being placed on unstable ground.
Another important step is to ensure that the drains are designed to cope with the reactive soil’s movement. If they are not, shearing of the drain and blockages can occur, which may cause leaks and other structural issues in the building.
Other measures that can be taken to limit the impact of reactive soil on a property are to keep the immediate surrounds of the building free from large trees and to direct rainwater away from the house into drains or stormwater soaks. This will avoid saturation of the soil and minimise the pressure on the foundations and masonry of the building.
Trees
Over time, trees can create omissions or ledges in the brick facade of a building. These omissions can then allow seeds to land, taking root in the fertile soil created by the old mortar and expanding over time. Eventually, these new plants can take over a portion of the original masonry, making it necessary to make a masonry repair. In this case, repointing is often the best option. Repointing involves removing the existing deteriorated mortar, then filling in with fresh mortar to improve stability and enhance aesthetics.
Masonry repairs can be a complex project that requires the right tools and skills to be successful. While some projects can be done DIY, this is best left to professional masons who have the experience and knowledge to complete repairs quickly and efficiently while ensuring quality work. Additionally, professional masons can often provide advice to help prevent future damage to a property’s masonry.
A good mason will always begin with a thorough inspection of a building’s masonry to identify problems and assess the structure. They will also determine the material composition of a building to ensure the correct restorative materials are used, without changing any historical features.
When a homeowner or business owner is considering a masonry repair project, they should find a reputable contractor that offers warranties and guarantees. This provides peace of mind that the project will be completed correctly and that any issues will be addressed promptly.
When looking for a masonry contractor, customers should pay attention to reviews and ratings. Masonry is a complex, time-consuming process that requires expertise and a lot of patience. Customers should look for a mason who has a strong track record of quality work and excellent customer service.
Masonry is a long-term investment, so homeowners and businesses should look for a mason who offers ongoing support. This can include warranty coverage, regular maintenance services, and even referrals to other contractors for additional repairs or remodeling. This shows that the company is committed to the long-term integrity of their clients’ masonry and is invested in providing high-quality service.
Poor Maintenance
Aesthetic Degradation: Damaged masonry can significantly affect the overall aesthetics of a home or building, reducing its value and making it less attractive to potential buyers or tenants. It can also create entry points for pests, which may further damage the structure or pose health risks to occupants.
Water Infiltration: Unless protected with proper waterproofing, concrete and masonry are susceptible to water damage. This can lead to freeze-thaw damage, cracking, and brick spalling. Damaged mortar joints can also compromise stability of involved masonry elements, increasing the risk of structural failure.
Efflorescence, or the accumulation of salts and minerals on the surface of concrete and masonry, is a common sign that moisture is penetrating the surface. Efflorescence is more than just an eyesore, though; it can indicate that the surface has been saturated with chemicals and should be washed with clean water to prevent further damage.
Brick Spalling
Brick spalling is the crumbling or flaking of bricks, and it can be caused by many factors, including improper maintenance, poor installation, environmental elements, or simply age. It is important to recognize that brick spalling should be addressed immediately and to consult with a professional to identify the cause.
Brick repair and replacement is a complex process that requires the right tools and skills to ensure that the new brick is properly matched to the existing bricks in terms of size, shape, color, and finish. It is important to replace the existing bricks with identical ones in order to maintain a consistent appearance and to prevent future problems like water infiltration, cracking, and general deterioration.
While it is possible for homeowners to perform certain masonry repairs, such as tuckpointing and patching, these projects require skill and precision that can only be provided by a licensed masonry contractor. It is recommended to hire a contractor that offers full exterior services, which can address many different aspects of the building’s exterior, including brick damage, a damaged chimney crown, and algae growth.
Masonry repair is a crucial part of protecting the value and integrity of a home or business. While it is possible to spot some masonry problems on your own, it is important to partner with a professional to conduct regular inspections and provide timely and thorough masonry repair when needed.