This image shows a textured brick wall. The bricks are a mix of reddish-brown and gray tones, with varying shades and textures. The wall has a weathered, aged appearance, with visible cracks and crevices throughout the brickwork. The overall impression is of a sturdy, rustic masonry structure.

The Ultimate Guide to Brick and Concrete Repairs

Posted by James on

Like every other material, brick and concrete start to require repair over time. Depending on the environment and usage of your masonry, these repairs might become more prominent, leading to significant damage. Homeowners with masonry on their property need to know the basics of brick and concrete repairs. While you don’t need to make the repairs yourself (though you can in some cases), it’s crucial to understand when bricks need repair, what the process entails, and how much it will cost.

Can Broken Bricks Be Repaired? How?

Broken bricks
Crack in a brick wall section.

The good news is that you can repair broken bricks. You don’t have to write off the whole structure because of a few damaged bricks. In fact, we’ll even tell you how to complete a basic brick repair. But before you get out your chisel and mortar, there’s more you should know. You need to figure out some things first, like how bad the damage is, what’s causing the damage, and if you can repair it yourself.

How Bad is the Brick?

First, find out if you’re looking at a simple solution or if your brick needs more work. Isolated cracks or chips that are only on a few bricks can be fixed pretty easily. You can probably repair the structure with a few replacement bricks. However, some structures might require a lot more work. If your structure is load-bearing or has more than a few bricks that need to be replaced, you should consider hiring a professional. It’s better to get help from an expert than risk hurting yourself or damaging the structure.  Here are some common causes of brick damage that go beyond standard wear-and-tear. 

  • Underlying expansion or contraction 

Different bricks and types of mortar can have different expansion or contraction rates. If you have multiple types of materials with conflicting expansion rates, that can lead to cracking or structural instability. 

  • Salt damage

People that live in cold areas probably use salt in the winter to keep their sidewalks and driveways safe. However, that same salt can damage brickwork. Salt damage can erode bricks and concrete, usually leaving behind white marks on the masonry. 

  • Water damage

Water damage is another common cause of brick deterioration. Regular water running over brick or concrete can slowly erode the material, eating away at masonry. Typically, water damage on masonry looks like the bricks have been half-dissolved. 

  • Foundation movement

A settling foundation can cause a lot of damage to homes and buildings. To see if a moving foundation is the reason for your broken bricks, check for a staircase-like crack coming from the base of the structure. If you find one, call a professional, as the stability of the structure might be compromised. 

  • Grade level changes

The grade level of brick is supposed to be a foot above ground level in most areas. However, some home projects, like adding a deck, stairs, or soil, can change the grade level. Bricks trapped near ground level are likely absorbing water, leading to erosion and brick damage. 

How to Complete a Minor Brick Repair

If your bricks don’t fall into the above categories, you might be able to make your repairs yourself. As long as you’re only replacing a few bricks with minor damage, you can probably get the project done without hiring a professional. However, if you’re not comfortable with masonry or DIY projects like this, it’s better to reach out and ask for help than risk injuring yourself or damaging your structure. 

Removing and Replacing a Brick

What You Need

  • A replacement brick that matches your other bricks in makeup and appearance
  • Mortar mix 
  • A mortar mix pigment if you need to match it to the rest of the structure
  • Cold chisel
  • Hammer
  • Wire brush
  • If you have one, a power drill can make the process easier.
  • Pointing trowel
  • Joint strike tool
  • Eye protection
  • Leather work gloves

Removing the Brick

First, you have to remove the brick. Make sure you have on your eye protection and leather gloves to protect yourself from possible injuries. If you’re worried about dust, you can also wear a basic face mask to keep from breathing in debris.  Start with the cold chisel and a heavy hammer. Break the brick into pieces to remove it, but be careful not to damage any of the other bricks. If you’re removing multiple bricks, start with the top one and move down. Once you’ve removed all the old brick pieces, chisel out the old mortar. Try to make it as clean as possible. When all the old mortar is gone, clean the joints of any that’s left with a wire brush. Use a vacuum to clear out the entire opening, then rinse it with water. Now, you can put in your new brick.

Replacing the Brick

Mix your mortar along with pigment if you need it. Take your pointing trowel and put mortar on the bottom and sides of the brick opening. You want to have about one inch of mortar. Slightly wet your new brick to absorb the mortar better, and then apply mortar to the brick’s top and sides. Slide it into the opening, and don’t worry. Mortar’s supposed to ooze out. Tap the brick into place until it’s flush with the rest of the bricks. If you need it, apply more mortar with the pointing trowel. The mortar should be full to the face of the brick. Then, you can tool the mortar joints with the joint strike tool to ensure they match with the adjacent mortar joints. When the mortar is almost dry, use the wire brush and clear away the excess mortar.  Finally, one of the most important steps is to make sure the new brick stays moist to help it cure. Spray the whole repair with water after finishing with the mortar.  For the next three days, make sure the brick remains moisturized. Some people cover the repair with a plastic sheet to help it retain moisture, though you don’t have to do this. 

Fixing Loose Mortar Joints

Loose mortar joints can let moisture into your interior walls and the surrounding mortar. That’s why it’s so important to make sure all the mortar joints in your brickwork are fixed with a process called tuckpoint.

What You Need

  • Mortar mix
  • Mortar mix pigment if you need to match to the existing brickwork
  • Cold chisel
  • Heavy hammer
  • Sharp, small trowel
  • Scrub brush
  • Eye protection
  • Leather work gloves

How to Tuckpoint?

Tuckpointing
Tuckpointing.

With your eye protection and leather gloves on, use the cold chisel and hammer to remove the old mortar. Cut at least a half-inch into the crumbling joint and remove all loose mortar.  Then, rinse the joints with fairly strong water pressure to make sure you got all the loose mortar and dust out. Mix the new mortar, but before applying it to the mortar joint, wet the joint again. Use your trowel to fill the joints with mortar and pack it in tightly. You don’t want any air holes or gaps.  Like with the brick replacement, you need to keep the mortar moist for the next few days. Mist it regularly to ensure it cures properly, and when it’s completely dry, use the wire brush to remove excess mortar. 

2. How Much Does Brick Repair Cost in Canada?

There’s no shame in hiring a professional! When it comes to masonry and construction projects, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you aren’t comfortable completing projects yourself or your bricks are significantly damaged, do some research and find qualified experts in your area. If you’re wondering how much money you might end up spending, you’re not the only one. The cost is a top concern for anyone looking to hire a professional. However, the cost can vary significantly depending on the severity of the damage, how much needs to be repaired, the type of work being completed, and your location. According to Reno Assistance, the average rate for masonry work in Canada is about $120 an hour. Home Advisor reports that brick repair in America can range between 710 and 2,287 USD, about $885 and $2,853 in Canadian dollars.  Of course, those numbers include everything from minor brick repairs to restorations. If you want to hire a professional for brickwork, you’ll have to look at your local masons. Find someone that you can trust to complete the work and ask for a quote. To get the best idea of how much something will cost, try to get quotes from a few different people. 

3. Brick Repair vs. Brick Restoration – What’s The Difference?

If you’re looking into brick repair yourself, you’ve probably seen the word restoration somewhere. But what’s the difference between the two?

Brick Repair

Brick repair is a much more functional project, taking damaged sections and replacing them with new materials. These projects patch and plug gaps and cracks or remove and replace outdated materials that may have lost their structural integrity. The purpose of repairs is to take existing masonry and get them in good condition. 

Brick Restoration

Restoration, on the other hand, is a more intensive project. While it might include similar work to repairs, the purpose of restoration is to bring the masonry back to its original look.  For structures from older eras, restoration uses period-appropriate materials to ensure the brickwork remains standing and matches the rest of the structure. This often involves removing old masonry, replacing it, and refinishing it.  While repairs often focus on a specific area or piece of masonry, restoration is usually for an entire building. Improving a building’s structural integrity requires a lot more work than a few repairs. 

The Difference

If you’re trying to figure out if you need repairs or restoration, remember that repairs fix while restoration replaces. Though repairs might involve replacing bricks or concrete, and restoration often involves repairs, the overall purposes of the projects differ. Repairs are focused on small fixes, and restoration is for overall improvement. 

4. What are the Types of Brickwork?

To figure out what type of repairs your masonry needs, you also need to know the type of brickwork you have. There are two different categories, one of which has three classes.  The first is brickwork in mud. This is the most basic and cheapest type of masonry, where bricks are joined together with mud. Typically, people in North America don’t use brickwork in mud for anything more complex than short walls. The second category is brickwork in cement, which uses cement to join the bricks together. There are three classes of brickwork in cement, each defined by the type of bricks and the purpose of the brickwork. 

  1. First-class brickwork uses cement of lime mortar and bricks with sharp surfaces and edges. These bricks should be regular in shape, made of completely burnt good earth, and a deep cherry red or copper color.
  2. Second-class brickwork uses ground-molded bricks, which have a rough and irregular shape. They’re usually burnt in kilns, and they offer great durability and strength. 
  3. Third-class brickwork is made with poor quality bricks that are rough with unfair edges. They’re ground-molded and burnt in clamps and are typically unusable for areas that experience lots of rain. 

You likely have first-class brickwork, as this is the best option for permanent structures. First-class bricks are the strongest and most durable type of brick, though the other classes have their uses. 

Final Thoughts

Brick and concrete repairs seem like they’d be complex, but they’re not as difficult as they look. With the right tools and a good understanding of how to fix bricks, you can easily make some basic repairs yourself.  If you need a professional’s help, make sure to find someone with good reviews that asks for a fair price. While you might be able to do some repairs yourself, don’t risk injury or damage. Hire a professional if you don’t feel comfortable making the repairs or if they require a lot of work. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I repair broken bricks myself? Yes, minor brick repairs can often be done by yourself, especially if the damage involves only a few bricks with isolated cracks or chips. You’ll need basic tools like a chisel, hammer, mortar mix, and replacement bricks that match the existing ones. However, for extensive damage or structural issues, it’s advisable to hire a professional.

2. What are the common causes of brick damage? Brick damage can be caused by several factors, including water erosion, salt damage from deicing, expansion or contraction due to temperature changes, and structural issues like foundation movement. Identifying the cause of the damage is crucial before attempting repairs.

3. How do I replace a damaged brick? To replace a damaged brick, you’ll need to remove the broken brick using a chisel and hammer, clean the area, and prepare new mortar. Insert the new brick and apply mortar around it, ensuring it is flush with the surrounding bricks. Maintain the moisture of the new mortar for proper curing over the next few days.

4. What is tuckpointing, and why is it necessary? Tuckpointing is the process of repairing and renewing the mortar joints between bricks. This technique is essential for maintaining the integrity of a wall and preventing moisture from entering and damaging the structure. It involves removing old mortar, cleaning the joints, and applying new mortar.

5. How much does brick repair cost in Canada? The cost of brick repair can vary widely depending on the extent of damage and the nature of the repairs needed. On average, professional masonry work might cost around $120 per hour in Canada. For specific pricing, it’s best to obtain quotes from several local masons.

6. What is the difference between brick repair and brick restoration? Brick repair focuses on fixing functional issues and damage to restore structural integrity, often by replacing or repairing damaged bricks and mortar. Brick restoration goes further to bring the masonry back to its original aesthetic appearance, using materials and techniques that match the historical context of the structure.

This image shows a construction worker wearing a blue hard hat and working on repairing or maintaining a brick chimney on a roof. The worker is crouched down and appears to be inspecting or making adjustments to the chimney. The roof is made of wooden shingles, and there is a clear sky in the background.

Chimney repair – A complete Guide

Posted by Ryan Seraphin on

Most people don’t give their chimney much thought – until there’s a problem. Then, it’s suddenly very important! If you’re having issues with your chimney, it’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible. Chimney repair can be a big job, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about repairing your chimney.

Masonry Chimney 101

A chimney made of masonry can be made out of many materials, including concrete, bricks, mortar, concrete block and concrete block, cast iron and steel, and flue tile.

These materials can be very vulnerable to rainwater damage if they’re not properly installed or maintained.

External factors can cause serious damage to extremely porous chimneys.

Common Chimney Problems

A Chimney is an important part of your home, providing ventilation for your fireplace or stove. It’s also one of the most vulnerable parts of your home, exposed to the elements and subject to wear and tear. Over time, your chimney can develop problems that need to be repaired.

Cracks

Cracks in the crown or firebox can be considered fire hazards under the NFPA.

The reason for this is that smoke from a chimney can contain waste particles from a fire.

The black smoke that comes out of a chimney is

These small particles can build up and accumulate inside cracks in the masonry.

This illustration shows the buildup of a chimney flue. It can cause a fire hazard.

Brick cracks can lead to small areas of carbon buildup and waste particles. Some of these could be flammable.

Creosote (an oily substance) is the real culprit. Creosote (an oily substance) is a very similar substance to soot and can ignite by sparks.

Creosote, a flammable chemical, is formed from smoke and vapors of burning wood.

Please Click Here for a Complete Article about Creosote.

Chimney repair

If creosote buildup is more than 1/4 inch, it’s time to have a chimney cleaned.

Look for cracks in mortar around the chimney and fireplace.

Every day, more than 61 chimney fires are lit in the United States.

Don’t panic if cracks develop in your fireplace or chimney.

Fireplace cracks can be repaired quickly. Fire risk could increase if it is not fixed promptly.

Water Penetration

Water penetration can occur at multiple points.

While water penetration can lead to mold growth, destruction, and other serious consequences,

When water reacts with creosote, it becomes acidic. This accelerates brick and mortar decay in fireplaces and chimneys.

Water can get into the chimney through cracks in the crown or chimney shelf.

This can also happen due to defective flashing at the roof–the to-chimbal junction.

Water damage can occur to exterior mortar and interior walls.

To avoid all these dangers, keep a schedule for chimney inspections. Make sure that there is no water infiltration inside any chimney or fireplace.

These water-repellent treatments (also called “waterproofing”) can keep water from your chimney

Crown of Chimneys Broken

The chimney crown, which is located at the top of a chimney, acts as a shield against a number of dangers.

The crown should have an upward slope that directs water away from the flue edges. This prevents mortar or brick from eroding along the vertical chimney surfaces.

A properly constructed chimney crown should be overhanging, made from Portland cement-based mix.

Faulty Flashing

Flashing is the process of sealing the space between the chimney and the roof to keep rainwater out.

It is basically an expansion joint that’s made from two different materials. It allows the chimney and roof to expand and contract at the right rates, without causing any damage.

Here’s an example of flashing which allows water to enter a house that is under construction.

Incorrect Dimensions

If your Chimney is the incorrect dimensions, it will not function properly. The Chimney should be at least 2 feet taller than anything within a 10-foot radius of it. If it isn’t, you could have serious drafting problems. In addition, the Chimney should have a cap that is at least 3 inches wider than the Chimney opening.

Caps that are too small allow rain and snow to enter the Chimney, which can cause serious damage. If you don’t have a cap, or if yours is the wrong size, call a professional to have one installed.

Chimney Caps

A cap is required to prevent water from entering your chimney. This will prevent birds and squirrels from getting into your chimney opening. This is basically a way to get rid of any clutter in your home, such as leaves.

You can also use a cap to keep your home safe from animals that might enter your chimney and cause a fire. A Chimney cap will also help you save money on your heating bill.

If you live in an area where it snows, you need to make sure that your chimney is clear of any snow or ice. If there is any buildup, it can cause your chimney to collapse.

Chimney Deterioration

Bricks, mortar, and other building materials can be damaged by being left in the elements.

Damage to chimney walls is slowly occurring from external elements

A falling chimney is an indication that it is time to rebuild. Bricks are not viable anymore.

Chimney repair

Leaning Chimneys

Has your chimney been checked by a professional to ensure it is not leaning? A lean chimney can cause serious damage to your property, and even collapse.

This is a list of common problems that can occur with your fireplace or chimney.

It is recommended that chimneys be inspected annually to ensure safety and prevent costly repairs.

Inspect your fireplace and chimney every month to ensure that there are no problems.

A 5-minute annual visual inspection can help you save thousands on chimney and fireplace repairs.

A quick checklist for inspecting chimneys and fireplaces.

Check your fireplace for cracks or loose bricks.

Be sure to check the firebox for cracks or broken bricks.

Make sure the damper is off.

Check the chimney exterior for cracks and damage.

Repair any cracks or damage to your fireplace before you use it again.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How often should I have my chimney inspected?

Chimneys should be inspected annually to ensure they are safe and free from obstructions and damage. This regular inspection can help prevent costly repairs.

2. What are the signs of chimney deterioration?

Signs of deterioration include cracks in the mortar or bricks, a leaning structure, and water penetration. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult a professional for repairs.

3. What causes cracks in chimney bricks and mortar?

Cracks can be caused by thermal expansion, moisture penetration, and natural settling of the house. Creosote buildup can also contribute to deterioration if not regularly cleaned.

4. Why is flashing important for my chimney?

Flashing seals the gap between the chimney and roof, preventing water from entering and causing damage. Faulty flashing can lead to water damage in your home.

5. How does the wrong chimney cap affect my chimney?

The wrong size cap can allow rain, snow, and animals into your chimney, leading to blockages and damage. Ensure your cap is appropriately sized to prevent these issues.

6. What should I do if my chimney starts leaning?

A leaning chimney could be a sign of structural failure and poses a serious safety risk. It’s crucial to get a professional evaluation and repair as soon as possible.

This image shows a textured, weathered surface with a mottled, grayish-white background. The surface has a rough, granular appearance, with small speckles and spots scattered throughout. Towards the bottom of the image, there is a dark, irregular shape or pattern that appears to be a stain or discoloration on the surface. The overall impression is of an aged, worn material, possibly a concrete or stone surface that has been exposed to the elements over time.

How to Remove Paint from Brick & Concrete

Posted by Ryan Seraphin on

Choose The Right Paint Remover

There are many types of paint removers on the market, and not all are created equal. You need to select a product that is specifically designed for removing paint from masonry surfaces. These products will have labels that say they are safe for use on brick, stone, or concrete.

Some common active ingredients in paint strippers are methylene chloride, caustic soda, and d-limonene. Methylene chloride is a powerful solvent that can dissolve most types of paint. Caustic soda is a strong alkali that will also remove paint. D-limonene is derived from citrus fruits and is less harsh than the other two options.

If you’re not sure which product to use, ask a professional at your local hardware store for guidance.

Prepare The Surface

Before you begin stripping the paint, you need to take some precautions to protect yourself and the surface you’ll be working on. Paint strippers contain harmful chemicals, so it’s important to work in a well-ventilated area. If possible, work outdoors or in a garage with the door open.

You should also wear gloves, goggles, and a respirator to avoid contact with the chemicals. Make sure to cover any areas you don’t want stripper on, such as vegetation or concrete surfaces.

Apply The Paint Stripper

Once you’ve selected a paint stripper and put on the proper safety gear, you’re ready to start applying the product. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. In most cases, you’ll need to apply a thick layer of stripper with a paintbrush or roller and then wait for it to work its magic.

The amount of time you’ll need to wait will vary depending on the type of paint and the stripper you’re using. After the specified time has passed, use a wire brush or putty knife to scrape off the paint.

You may need to apply a second coat of stripper if the paint isn’t coming off easily. Once all the paint has been removed, wash the area with soap and water to remove any residual stripper.

Identify the type of paint that is on the surface

This will determine the best method of removal. Try to remove as much of the paint as possible before using any harsh chemicals or solvents.

If the paint is water-based, you can use a pressure washer with detergent to remove it. If the paint is oil-based, you will need to use a chemical stripper.

Before using any chemicals, always test them on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Wear protective clothing, including gloves and eye protection, when working with any chemicals.

 How to remove paint from brick

Follow the instructions on the product label for safe and effective use

Once the paint is removed, you may need to neutralize the surface with a mild acid, such as white vinegar, to remove any residual chemicals. Rinse the area well with clean water and allow it to dry completely before repainting.

Choose an appropriate solvent or stripper

The first step is to identify the type of paint that is on the bricks. This will determine what kind of stripper or solvent you need to use. Water-based paints can be removed with painting strippers or caustic soda. Oil-based paints require the use of petroleum distillates.

Test the removal method on a small area first

Once you have determined what kind of solvent or stripper to use, it is important to test it on a small, hidden area of the brickwork first. This will help you to gauge how effective the chosen method will be, and whether there is any risk of damage to the bricks themselves.

Apply the solvent or stripper to the paint

Once you are happy with the test area, you can begin to apply the solvent or stripper to the rest of the painted surface. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully.

Allow the solvent or stripper to work

After you have applied the stripper or solvent, you will need to allow it time to work. This usually means leaving it for a few hours, although in some cases it may be necessary to leave it overnight.

Scrape off the paint

Once the solvent or stripper has had time to work, you should be able to scrape off the paint fairly easily. A putty knife or scraper should do the job nicely. If there are any stubborn areas of paint remaining, you may need to repeat the process.

Wash away any residue

Once all the paint has been removed, it is important to wash away any residue from the stripper or solvent. This will ensure that no harmful chemicals are left behind. A simple solution of water and dish soap should do the trick nicely.

How to remove paint from brick

Allow the bricks to dry completely

Once you have finished washing away the residue, you should allow the bricks to dry completely before painting them again or applying any sealant. This usually takes a few hours, although in some cases it may be necessary to leave them overnight.

Apply the solvent or stripper and wait for it to take effect

For most products, you’ll need to wait 15-20 minutes. Use a stiff brush to remove the loosened paint. If necessary, apply a second coat of stripper and repeat the process. Once all the paint has been removed, wash the area with soapy water and allow it to dry thoroughly. You may need to sand the surface lightly before repainting or staining.

Scrape off the paint with a wire brush or scraper

For paint that’s tougher to remove, mix a solution of 1 part trisodium phosphate (TSP) and 4 parts water. Apply the solution to the painted surface with a sponge, then scrub with a stiff brush.

Rinse the area well with clean water and allow it to dry completely before painting. If the bricks are very absorbent, you may need to seal them before painting.

If you’re using a power washer to remove paint from brick or concrete, be sure to hold the wand at least 12 inches (30 cm) away from the surface to avoid damaging it. Use a low-pressure setting and move the wand back and forth across the surface as you work. Rinse the area well with clean water when you’re finished.

Rinse the surface with water and allow it to dry completely

If the paint is fresh, you may be able to remove it with a putty knife or other sharp object. Gently scrape the paint away from the surface of the brick.

For older paint, you’ll need to use a chemical stripper. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as some strippers can damage the brick.

Once the paint has been removed, rinse the area with water and allow it to dry completely before repainting.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What types of paint removers are safe for brick surfaces? Use paint removers specifically labeled for use on masonry, such as those containing methylene chloride, caustic soda, or d-limonene. These are designed to safely strip paint from brick, stone, or concrete.

2. How do I prepare the area before applying paint stripper? Ensure the work area is well-ventilated; outdoor settings are ideal. Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator. Cover nearby surfaces to protect them from drips or spills.

3. What should I do if the paint does not come off easily after the first application? If paint remains after the first application, apply a second coat of stripper. Allow it to sit for the recommended time before attempting to scrape off the paint again.

4. How can I identify the type of paint on my brick surface? Test a small, inconspicuous area with solvent or stripper to determine the type of paint. Water-based paints may respond to simple solutions, while oil-based paints typically require stronger solvents.

5. What is the best method to remove paint from bricks? Apply a chemical paint stripper suited for the paint type and brick, let it sit according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then scrape the paint off with a wire brush or putty knife. Rinse the area thoroughly afterward.

6. How should I clean the brick surface after removing the paint? After scraping off the paint, wash the brick with a solution of water and mild detergent, or use a pressure washer set to a low pressure. Rinse thoroughly and allow the brick to dry completely before any further treatment or repainting.