Are you looking to repair brick siding in your home? Are you looking for a way to refresh the exterior of your home to make it look more modern and inviting? If so, you’re certainly not alone. Brick siding is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its classic look and lasting durability, but unfortunately, it can be prone to wear and tear over time.
Despite needing occasional repairs, brick siding is still an excellent investment as long as they are properly maintained.
In this blog post, we will offer detailed advice on how to repair brick siding to repair and maintain your brick siding based on years of experience working with clients who have dealt with similar issues. Keep reading if you want to learn more!
What is Brick Siding?
Brick siding is an exterior wall covering that consists of bricks affixed to the outer walls of a house. It is typically made from either fired or non-fired clay but can also be made from concrete.
Brick siding has been popular for centuries because it is both aesthetically pleasing and extremely durable, but like any material exposed to the elements, it can require repairs from time to time.
What to Keep in Mind When Repairing Brick Siding?
If you’re looking to repair your brick siding, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First and foremost, always make sure that any repair work is done by a qualified professional who can guarantee the job will be done right.
1. Check the Underlying Structure
It is essential that you check for underlying structural problems before attempting any repairs – such as cracks in the mortar or bricks that have become loose. If you’re not sure what to look for, a qualified professional should be able to assess the situation and point out any potential issues.
2. Clean Brick Siding
Before beginning repairs, it is important to make sure that your brick siding is clean and free from dirt and debris. This will ensure that the repair materials adhere properly and your siding looks great when finished.
3. Repairing Mortar Joints
Mortar joints are one of the most common sources of wear and tear in brick siding, so it is important to inspect them regularly for cracks or loose pieces. If needed, you can use a trowel to fill in any gaps and smooth the surface.
4. Replacing Damaged Bricks
In some cases, you may need to replace bricks that have become too damaged or unsightly. This is a delicate process as you want to make sure that the new brick matches the existing ones in terms of color and texture. Again, it is best to hire a qualified professional for this task as they will have the right tools and expertise needed to ensure your siding looks perfect.
Required Items for Repairing Brick Siding
Once you’ve decided to repair your brick siding, you will need a few key items in order to do the job properly. These include:
- Trowel
- Mortar mix
- Masonry brush
- Masonry sealer
- Brick hammer or chisel
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
It is important that you use the correct materials for each job, so make sure to consult a qualified professional before beginning any repairs.
How to Repair Brick Siding in 10 Easy Steps
Step 1: Inspect the Brick
Start by inspecting your brick siding for any signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks or loose pieces in the mortar joints or bricks that have become damaged. Inspecting regularly will help you identify any issues before they become a bigger problem.
Step 2: Clean the Siding
Once you’ve identified any damaged areas, it is important to clean the siding of dirt and debris with a masonry brush or broom. This will ensure that the repair materials adhere properly and your siding looks great when finished.
Step 3: Fill in Mortar Joints
If you’ve identified any cracks or loose pieces in the mortar joints, use a trowel to fill them in and make sure the surface is smooth. Take your time and do it carefully to ensure that everything looks even. Filling in the mortar joints will help protect your siding from further wear and tear.
Step 4: Apply Masonry Sealer
Once you’ve filled in the mortar joints, apply a masonry sealer to the entire surface of the brick siding. This will help protect it from water damage and other elements and keep it looking great over time.
Step 5: Remove Damaged Bricks
If you’ve identified any badly damaged bricks, use a brick hammer or chisel to carefully remove them from the siding. Make sure that they are laid out and labeled so you know where each one goes when replacing them.
Step 6: Prepare New Bricks
If you are replacing any bricks, make sure to prepare them first. This includes ensuring that they have the same color and texture as the existing ones and using a masonry brush to ensure that they are clean before installation.
Step 7: Install New Bricks
Once you’ve prepared your new bricks, carefully install them in the same pattern and with the same orientation as the existing ones. Make sure to use a mallet or rubber hammer to ensure that they are properly seated, and no air pockets remain.
Step 8: Apply Mortar
Once all of the bricks are installed, it is time to apply mortar around them using your trowel. Make sure to smooth the surface for a clean, even finish. Applying mortar helps protect your siding by filling in any gaps and creating a waterproof seal.
Step 9: Apply Masonry Sealer
Once the mortar has dried, it is important to apply a masonry sealer again. This will ensure that your brick siding remains protected from water damage and other elements for years to come.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Beautifully Repaired Siding
Once you’ve completed your repair work, stand back and admire your handiwork. With a bit of time and effort, you can make sure that your brick siding looks great for years to come.
Repairing brick siding is an important part of maintaining your home’s exterior. With the right materials and a bit of patience, you can ensure that your siding looks great for years to come. However, if you are ever in doubt or need help with your repairs, make sure to consult a qualified professional who will be able to assess the situation and help you get the job done right.
8 Maintenance Tips
Besides regularly checking for any signs of deterioration, here are some other tips to keep your brick siding in great condition:
- Keep plants away from the wall. Plant roots can cause serious damage if they grow close to the wall and can even cause bulging or cracking of the brickwork.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals on the wall. Harsh chemicals can damage your brick siding and leave it looking dull. Instead, use mild soaps or a vinegar/water solution to gently clean any dirt or residue from the surface.
- Where possible, avoid power washing the wall. This can cause damage over time which will be costly to repair. Possible damage includes cracked mortar and dislodged bricks.
- Inspect the wall for any loose or missing bricks or pointing, as well as any signs of dampness. If you need to repoint brick walls, use a compatible mortar that is suitable for your specific type of wall.
- Always use a ladder when you need to inspect or repair the wall, as this will ensure your safety. Always ensure the ladder is secured to prevent it from slipping or toppling over.
- If you need to paint the wall, use a waterproof sealant that is suited for brick walls. This will help protect the wall from the elements and keep it looking great for longer.
- If you find any cracks or damage to the wall, use a compatible mortar and brick to repair it. It’s important to make sure that the bricks and mortar match the existing ones for a seamless finish.
- Consider having a professional come in to inspect your brick siding every few years. This will help catch any potential problems early on and save you time and money in the long run.
Keeping up with regular maintenance will help ensure your brick siding looks great for years to come. With a bit of effort, you can keep your brick wall in top condition and looking its best.
Conclusion
Repairing brick siding can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and materials and the right knowledge on how to repair brick siding, it doesn’t have to be. From mortar repairs and patching to power washing and repainting, it is possible to get a fresh, neat look for your brick siding.It’s important to properly maintain your brick because it can last for many years.
Not only will you be saving yourself money in the long run from having to do major repairs, but you’ll also enjoy a more beautiful exterior.
So whether you choose a professional or give DIY-ing it a try, your brick siding can look renewed in no time at all! Plus, with extra effort into maintaining it properly on the front end, you’ll have fewer worries down the line.
The key is to stay on top of any potential problems before they become bigger ones. Now that you know how easy it can be to repair brick siding when necessary – let’s get those projects started!
