3 Characteristics of Brick Restoration

3 characteristics of brick restoration. If you have ever observed an older building, you may have noticed intricately welded bricks that make up aged city structures. Depending on the state of the building, you may have also noticed how the passage of time tends to affect the masonry keeping the structure in place. 

Brick restoration is a type of masonry service with the intent of restoring a building’s original structural integrity. The process includes a pattern of restoring brick to its original appearance, repairing the coloration, and replacing crumbling bricks. 

Brick buildings are known to be incredibly durable, but the natural aging of time can cause damage to mortar structures. Brick restoration services are necessary for retaining the structure’s original beauty, making the building look and feel like new. 

Here are three things you need to do about brick restoration and why you should pay attention to the warning signs of mortar damage. 

Mortar Repair

Mortar is the cement material that welds brick together. As time goes on, it can deteriorate and create serious problems to the building. This can mean loss of structural integrity, coloration, and dwelling safety. 

This is one of the many reasons why brick restoration is so important. One aspect of the service is repairing damaged mortar. This is done through a process called brick repointing, a form of restoration that aims to increase the quality of finish between each brick. 

Moisture, nature, and weather can all contribute to brick disrepair, and repointing can help bring back the quality of the mortar. It is the process of removing damaged material and applying liquid to the brick and mortar, thus replacing the original brick. 

This is a process that has been mastered by professionals, so it is not recommended as a personal home improvement project. Doing so could cause greater damage to the building, which could create safety problems for the people living within. 

Brick Revitalization

As brick ages, so does its original appearance. The natural wear and tear of time can tint the brick’s color, resulting in an unappealing shade that severely taints the structure’s former glory. This is caused by nature, moisture, and contaminants that get absorbed into the stone. Thankfully, brick restoration can help with this. 

Sometimes, brick decolorization will appear before any structural problems occur. This is why it is essential to revitalize the brick before any other problems appear in the future. This is done by power washing, vacuuming, and scrubbing the pollution before applying the new masonry stain. 

Once the masonry stain is completed, it will make the building look like new. Continue supervising the brick regularly to prevent major repairs. However, it is important to pay attention to brick decolorization in case it is a sign of something more serious. 

Brick Replacement

If bricks get too loose, it is time for them to be replaced. Since it is a situation where repair is impossible, restoration professionals will completely remove the loose brick without ruining the rest of the structure. 

This is accomplished by carefully removing the old mortar surrounding the brick and cleaning out the cavity while it is clear. If it is possible, they will clean out the cavity and remove any grime accumulated within the space. They may even be able to save the old brick, as they are often salvageable. If not, they will completely replace the old one and fill in the hole with a new brick. 

Brick replacement is one of the most complicated aspects of restoration. Professionals have a very clear idea of what they are doing without affecting the rest of the structure. For your safety, it is highly recommended that you hire a service for brick replacement. 

Brick + Ember Outfitters Brick Restoration

Without proper supervision, brick restoration can be dangerous, costly, and time consuming. Even if you have experience with home improvement, masonry can be a completely different area of expertise. If it is done yourself, you may inadvertently create further damage down the road. 

At B+E, we know how stressful dealing with failing masonry can be. If you are noticing that your bricks are in need of repair, we are here to help. When choosing our services, you can expect the utmost quality for your home and complete customer satisfaction. 

Our masonry professionals offer a comprehensive assessment, detailed plan, and affordable estimate for restoring brickwork to its original glory. We have worked with every type of situation and are ready to tackle anything that comes our way. We know that you will be pleased with our masonry artisans and believe we are the right choice for any brick restoration project in the Indianapolis area. 
We greatly encourage questions, concerns or inquiries. Email us at office@brickandember.com to learn more about our restoration services or to schedule a visual assessment today.