Because of brick’s cost effectiveness and durable properties, it’s been a top choice as a building material for centuries. But even the strongest materials can be susceptible to both normal wear and tear and incidental damage.
Brick construction is the foundation to long-lasting structures, lasting property value and exterior appeal.
Whether it is an outdoor or indoor structure you’re questioning, there are certain signs you can look out for that let you know it’s time for repair.From there, you can determine if DIY is an option, or if you’ll need to call in our professional brick masonry experts.
Brick in Your Home
Some homes may only have a few brick accents, while others have full blown brick exteriors. Other brick masonry structures that may one day require repair include:
● Chimneys
● Fireplaces & hearths
● Porches
● Exteriors
● Retaining walls
● Garden bed liners
● Kitchen backsplashes
● Brick pathways & pavers
Regardless of the amount of brick in your home, some indicators of damage are universal.
3 Signs Your Brick Needs Repair
Depending on the severity and location of the damage, you may have the option to perform some small DIY repairs. However, other issues warrant immediate action and a call to a professional.
Shifting & Bowing
Bricks should always be laid level, so if you begin to notice any shifting, sagging, or bowing, or then you could have a major problem. It’s possible the ground beneath the structure is settling, causing the brick on top to sink. Or there could be an issue with the brick structure itself, weakening it until it can no longer hold the weight.
These types of issues always warrant a call to a contractor that specializes in brick repair, but you should act even more urgently if it is a supportive structure such as a retaining wall or home foundation.
Cracks & Chips
Cracks and chips are bound to happen over time, whether it’s from something dropped on the hearth of the brick fireplace or accumulated damage from rain and wind over time. You may be able to repair small cracks or chips in the brick or mortar on your own.
However, if these cracks are large and growing or the chips are so large they could compromise the integrity of the brick, you’ll want our experts to inspect the problem and come up with a professional solution for both efficiency and safety.
Mortar Loss
A small crack or deterioration in mortar between a couple of bricks is one thing. But if you start to notice major mortar loss, then it’s likely brick work that you can’t handle on your own. If not addressed quickly and properly, mortar loss can eventually lead to full-on structural deterioration.
Other Reasons to Call the Pros
Brickwork is a task that is commonly underestimated both the level of skill and time it will take. Many homeowners attempt to DIY only to find they don’t have the time or resources to do it, or worse, they finish the project only to realize they’ll need to have a professional redo it.
Save yourself the headache, time, and money by calling our expert brick masonry and construction firm from the beginning.
Further, professional contractors have the needed insurance to insure that you as the homeowner have minimal liability in the process. This can be particularly important for more dangerous brickwork, such as high walls or chimney work up on the roof.
Finally, some brick damage may be covered under insurance depending on the event that caused said damage. In many of those cases, the homeowner is required to use a professional company in order to repair the issue and have the cost reimbursed.
In Sum
Brick is a classic choice that withstands the test of time. But as a responsible business or homeowner, it’s important to remember the warning signs that your brick needs repair and admit when it’s time to call the pros.
Go-To Masonry and Construction Experts throughout Rochester Hills
Whether it’s shifting, cracking, crumbling, or anything in between, the faster you address the issue, the less likely you will incur additional damage that will cost more time and money. And by utilizing brick masonry repair professionals, you can ensure the job will be done correctly and last for years to come. We handle everything from brick and block wall repair, tuckpointing, chimney repair, custom home masonry and more.
Give Primo Contracting in Rochester Hills a call for an inspection or to start your next construction project today. We have been a trusted and proven masonry contractor for more than twenty years!