3 Common Masonry Problems: Here’s How to Fix Them
Don’t crumble under pressure from these common masonry problems
White stains on masonry are usually caused by a phenomenon called efflorescence that will actually get worse if you try to remove it with water.
If you live in a climate with a freeze-thaw cycle, you'll likely notice chipping and flaking caused by brick spalling.
Replacing old, worn mortar protects your stone and underlying structure from water seepage.
Masonry work adds elegance and timeliness to properties. While durable, stones, bricks, and other masonry materials can still weaken, become damaged, or fail over time. While some masonry problems can be fixed with a little elbow grease, others require masonry professionals capable of performing restorations. Here's a look at the most common problems homeowners encounter with masonry.
Efflorescence
Almost every homeowner with a brick home, patio, or walkway will experience some degree of efflorescence. If you've noticed a white, powdery substance on the surface of stones or brick, it's probably efflorescence. Depending on your climate, it can even appear brown, black, or yellow. Efflorescence is a natural phenomenon caused by salt deposits dissolving and evaporating. While it can happen on any stone surface, it's more common in high-moisture climates or areas.
How to Fix It
The steps for removing efflorescence from brick are pretty straightforward, so most homeowners can tackle this task on their own. Efflorescence can be loosened using a dry, stiff-bristle brush. If this isn't enough to fully remove efflorescence, apply a masonry cleaning solution from a local hardware store. To prevent future efflorescence, apply a repellent sealer that protects against salt and water. Homeowners can also consider professional sealing services to ensure that masonry is properly protected.
In general, water should be avoided when removing efflorescence because moisture causes it to return after the area has dried. However, water is necessary if you're cleaning algae growth from stone. For algae, use water and a brush or a pressure washer to scrape away embedded algae from a stone or brick surface. Be sure to follow all guidelines for how to pressure wash brick to avoid causing damage.
Brick Spalling
Spalling is one of the most common brick problems. It occurs when a brick's surface begins to deteriorate due to age, weather, or wear and tear. While it can happen in any climate, it's more common in areas with extreme hot and cold temperatures that cause an annual freeze-thaw that stresses brick. If you notice brick flakes, chips, or crumbles that leave the inner layer of brick exposed, you likely have spalling at your home.
How to Fix It
Start by removing any loose chunks of brick that are about to fall away in order to prevent them from causing damage to the surrounding area. While some homeowners may choose to patch brick cracks using sealant as a quick fix, the long-term solution should include:
Pulling out all spalled bricks.
Replacing missing bricks with new bricks and mortar.
Sealing the new brick with a masonry surface sealer.
For most homeowners, properly removing old brick and setting new brick is not a DIY task. Consider doing research on how to hire a masonry contractor to ensure you find the right kind of pro for the task.
Disintegrating Mortar
Mortar is a bonding agent and building material typically made of sand, cement, and lime. It binds bricks and other stones. Its unique, pliable design gives it the flexibility needed to prevent cracking in masonry. Over time, mortar will naturally lose its bonding strength. In addition, moisture and a building's settling movements can also weaken mortar until it begins to peel away and separate from the stone.
How to Fix It
To repair disintegrating mortar, you'll need to remove the existing mortar to create space for fresh mortar. Use a hammer drill to cut mortar from joints between stones. Next, add new mortar by following the manufacturer's directions for application and drying times. Finally, protect the mortar by applying a sealant over all of the joints. If you want to skip a step, look for mortar products containing built-in sealer.
When to Call a Pro
If it appears the integrity of your brick or stone is compromised, call a professional to assess your masonry problems. If performed incorrectly, DIY repairs can damage masonry and brick. If bricks or stones require extensive repairs, be sure to call a masonry company near you if you don't know how to tuckpoint brick or replace mortar.
On average, brick wall repair cost ranges from $778 to $2,600. Depending on the types of bricks involved, labor may cost between $20 and $40 per square foot. A common task like repairing mortar can cost as little as $300. The average cost to repair cracks is around $500.
In some cases, black stains on brick are caused by organic substances like algae and mold. However, it's more likely that the black spots you're noticing on your bricks come from carbon from vehicle exhaust or soot. Black stains can usually be removed by scrubbing the brick with a brush and masonry cleaner or power washing.
On average, properly installed brick mortar should last up to 30 years before needing to be repointed. Repointing involves replacing mortar between bricks before it begins to deteriorate. When homeowners aren't proactive about repointing mortar, it can begin to create entry points for moisture that will damage stonework and the underlying structure.
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