How frequently should your building’s masonry be maintained?

January 18, 2023

Masonry upkeep is an important part of being a homeowner. It's one of those things that you may not think about until it's too late, and then you're scrambling to find someone to fix the problem. So, how frequently should building masonry be maintained? What are some common issues that can occur? And what are some tips for taking care of your masonry? Read on to find out!

Common problems in masonry that need regular maintenance

Water damage

Brickwork is a building material that is durable and long-lasting, but it is not impervious to damage. One of the biggest threats to brickwork is water. Water can enter a building in many ways, such as rain, which, if a building's flashings aren’t maintained properly, water can leak inside.

Rising damp or accumulated moisture can also cause water damage from the ground up. Instances where groundwater rises more than usual are referred to as "rising damp."

If flooding has occurred, a tidal line with dredged-up salts will remain. If not removed, these salts will corrode the masonry because they stick to the brick.

Maintaining a yearly schedule for damage inspections is important so that you can address problems while the damage is still minimal. Addressing water damage as soon as possible is vital to preventing long term damage to your building's masonry.

Brick Tuckpointing Or Repointing

It is important to inspect building masonry annually for water damage and to check the mortar between the bricks. The mortar is as important as the brickwork because it evenly distributes the building weight across all bricks.

 Mortar loses efficiency as it ages and chips, which can cause cracks, holes, pits, sunken mortar, or missing mortar. When this kind of damage happens, repointing and/or tuckpointing is needed to remove the old mortar and replace it with new material to redistribute the weight.

a wall cover in cement bound for masonry repair

Buildups on brick surfaces

 The building's masonry should be maintained on a regular basis in order to prevent deterioration. The exterior should be cleaned by gentle pressure washing in order to remove any dirt or biological matter that has built up. This is important because, over time, this buildup can cause the masonry to deteriorate.

Additionally, moss or algae can trap water against the bricks, which will speed up the deterioration process. Pressure washing is an effective way to remove these pollutants and keep the masonry in good condition.

Invading Elements

All building masonry should be maintained in order to avoid any invading elements. Trimming the overgrown grass and weeds near your building will help to prevent any damage that could be done to the structure. Insects and other pests often find refuge in these areas, and if left unchecked, they could cause serious damage.

Additionally, some plants, such as vines, may directly adhere to the stonework and tear it apart. By keeping the area around your building clear, you can avoid any potential damage and keep your building in good condition.

Masonry is a beautiful and durable material that can last for years with the proper upkeep, however, it's not invincible. There are some common problems that can occur if it isn't maintained on a regular basis.

By knowing what to look for and how to fix common issues, you can keep your masonry looking beautiful and lasting for many years.

Keystone Pointing offers professional masonry repairs and maintenance services  in the Sydney area to help you take care of your home's exterior. Give us a call today!

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