4 Easy Ways to Tell When Your Brick Work Is Damaged and Needs Restoration

Bricks have been a popular construction material for centuries. Many people prefer bricks over other materials because of their elegant beauty, the ability to withstand harsh weather and versatility. Since bricks form the visible part of your house, you have to ensure that they look excellent at all times. 

But with time, even the most maintained bricks will deteriorate and require some repairs. Here are the four easy ways to tell when the brick restoration is required: 

1. When You Have Missing Mortar

Mortar disintegration is the first thing that happens when your bricks start deteriorating. Typically, you should repoint your bricks every few years. However, environmental factors may force you to do the touch-ups earlier than you should. Missing mortar is the first indicator that your brickwork is getting damaged and will need repair or replacement. Contact a masonry contractor to assess the level of damage on the mortar and fix it. 

2. When You Have Frost Boil

Frost boil is when your bricks start bulging. It happens when moisture seeps behind the bricks and interrupts the backing. The bricks then bulge and start looking disorderly and misaligned. This situation is prevalent in places that experience extreme temperatures because of the frequent cycles of freezing and thawing. 

Contact a masonry contractor to help you assess your house's brickwork when you notice frost boil. They will determine the underlying problem, resolve it and then put new bricks in place of the old ones. 

3. When the Bricks Bow

Bowing is another typical sign indicating a need for brick restoration. Cracked and bowed bricks allow water from the environment to seep into the house. If not addressed in good time, you may experience water damage and mould growth. 

Another common issue connected to bowing is the emergence of compacted bricks. Compaction signals a fault in the foundation, requiring some repair work. In this case, you will have to remove the compacted bricks and drive piers to support the foundation. 

4. When the Bricks Chip and Crack

The most obvious sign that you need to repair your bricks is when they start cracking. Often, this happens after a huge impact. Sealing the cracks prevents the problem from getting worse. However, the contractor might need to replace the chipped bricks if they are beyond repair. 

Bricks are an excellent construction material. They can last for years and give you beautiful architecture when properly maintained. Thus, you should call a concrete contractor when you notice early signs of damage to your bricks. Brick restoration gives your home a brand new look. Contact a brick restoration service for more information.