Brick restoration is a type of masonry restoration that aims to restore the appearance and structural integrity of a brick structure. The restoration process involves repairing damage to the brick and mortar, revitalizing the color of bricks and replacing loose bricks.
Repairing Damaged Mortar
One of the main goals of brick revitalization is to repair the damaged mortar. Mortar is the cement mixture that connects each brick together. Over time, the mortar can wear down and cause issues with structural integrity, appearance and other concerns. The main process brick restoration professionals use to repair damaged mortar is brick repointing.
Pointing refers to the finish between each brick. Proper pointing is essential to maintain the quality of the brick structure. The mortar and bricks can wear down over time due to weather, moisture, lack of maintenance and accidents. When this occurs, repointing is necessary.
Repointing involves removing the damaged mortar, applying water to the bricks and mortar and strategically placing new mortar. Although it seems simple, it is not a DIY project for building owners as an improper application of the mortar while repointing can cause serious concern to the long-term structural integrity of the brick.
Revitalizing Brick Color
A main concern that building owners have is concerns with the appearance of the brick. This is because brick and mortar are vulnerable to collecting moisture, dirt, pollution and other contaminants. Exposure to weather can also slowly cause the color of bricks to fade. In some instances, the color of the brick may begin to fade before there are concerns with the structural integrity.
Fortunately, the brick color can be revitalized. There are several ways a professional brick restoration company can do this. They will likely pressure wash, vacuum and scrub the bricks to remove all contaminants before using a masonry stain to ensure all bricks are the ideal color.
Waterproofing Surfaces
One of the biggest threats to brick and mortar is water damage. Bricks are porous and can absorb moisture, which can cause bricks to weaken over time. One way to prevent water from damaging your bricks is through waterproofing services. A brick restoration professional can use water-repellant and sealant to ensure the bricks are not at risk of excessive water exposure.
As its name suggests, water-repellant keeps water away from the porous materials, which keeps your bricks protected and looking great. It is essentially a sealant, protecting the bricks from preventable damage. Waterproofing services for brick restoration need to be reapplied every five to seven years for the most effective protection.
Replacing Loose Bricks
Bricks often require replacement when they have become loose. In some instances, damaged bricks may be unrestorable and will need to be replaced with new bricks. Brick restoration professionals can remove a loose or damaged brick and replace it without compromising any of the surrounding bricks.
Professionals will start by carefully chiseling away the mortar that surrounds the brick. Next, they will remove the old brick and clean out the cavity while it is empty. If the brick can be repaired and cleaned up, they may clean it and place it back. If not, they will replace the old brick with a new one of similar size.
Although it is not a simple process, removing, cleaning and replacing loose, damaged or excessively dirty bricks can be done with predictable results by a brick restoration professional.
Benefits of Brick Restoration
The most notable benefits of brick restoration include the ability to maintain the proper structural integrity of the building structure, improving the appearance of the building and ensuring wall replacement is not necessary. Brick restoration can help brick walls last for decades longer, and it can restore older structures closer to its original, more desirable look.
On the other hand, damaged, discolored or outdated brick structures that are not restored can grow increasingly worse and lead to early replacement and increased costs. Brick revitalization is especially recommended for commercial properties as it can add an appeal that looks more professional to customers and clients.
Taking pride in the appearance and quality of your property shows that you value the details within your company, and brick restoration is a great way to keep your brick commercial building looking its best at all times.
Contact the Brick Restoration Experts
If you have any followup questions or are interested in hiring a professional brick restoration company, give our team at Waterproof Caulking and Restoration a call today. We have a skilled and experienced team that understands how to properly restore the quality and appearance of brick for commercial buildings of all sizes. We are glad to explain the benefits and process of brick restoration in greater depth and help you determine if professional brick restoration from our trustworthy professionals is right for you.