Masonry adds an aesthetic appeal to any Indianapolis home. However, the harsh weather and drastic fluctuations in Indiana can affect your masonry over time. Additionally, soil shifting and settling may also damage the foundation of your masonry. It is important that you keep a close eye on your masonry and monitor its condition over time. Eventually,  you may begin to notice some changes to your masonry structures and wonder if you need masonry repairs. Consulting a professional mason, like the Brick + Ember Outfitters of Indianapolis, is the only way to know for sure if you need masonry repairs. However, there are a few signs you should look out for to know when it is time to call in an expert for repairs. 

Signs You Need Masonry Repairs

Carefully review your masonry annually for any signs of damage. If your masonry displays any of the signs below, contact a mason immediately for repairs. 

 

Missing or Damaged Mortar

You should have your masonry walls repointed roughly every 15 to 20 years. However, some masonry may need repair much earlier. If you notice a deteriorated mortar, it is time for repair. Without the proper mortar, bricks or stone will rub against each other and warp. You should only trust an experienced mason with mortar repair, as attempting an at-home job may only lead to more damage. 

 

Bulging Bricks

Bulging bricks (also known as frost boil) is a result of moisture seeping into and disrupting your masonry backing. When moisture gets behind your brick masonry, it will push or pull bricks and cause them to “bulge”. Indianapolis is filled with many freeze-thaw cycles that increase the likelihood of frost boil. B+E will fix this by removing any bulging bricks, repairing the underlying damage, and replacing the bricks. 

 

Cracked Bricks

Over time, brick and stone will naturally crack. Any cracks at an angle greater than 30º  are hazardous and pose a treat to the integrity of your masonry structure. Leaving cracks untreated will allow water to leak through them and may promote bulging bricks and more severe damage. Consult your local masonry expert to fill any cracked bricks. 

 

Changes in Your Home

Damaged masonry impacts more than the exterior of your home. If your masonry badly needs repair, you may be able to tell from inside. Moisture buildup on your walls, drafts, deformed windows, and plaster cracks may all be signs that your masonry is damaged. 

 

Consult an Expert for Masonry Repair

If you notice any of the signs above, there is no need to panic. When addressed immediately, masonry repairs are easily resolved. However, masonry repair is best left to professionals with the proper education and experience. The Brick + Ember Outfitters of Indianapolis is here to help protect and restore your masonry through repair. Prevent long term damage and revitalize your masonry with B+E. Just give us a call at 317-500-1250, send an email to office@brickandember.com, or visit our website HERE to set up a masonry consultation.

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