Maintaining a Brick House: Essential Tips and Tricks
Brick houses are a classic choice for many homeowners, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the low maintenance nature of the material. However, to keep your brick house in top condition, there are a few key areas to focus on. This article will guide you through the two most important maintenance tasks: roof care and what to do about paint or paint-related issues. Additionally, we'll cover the step-by-step process of repointing, ensuring your brick house remains a beautiful and durable asset for years to come.
The Importance of Roof Maintenance for Brick Houses
One of the most critical aspects of maintaining a brick house is the eaves and roof systems. Water getting into the brickwork can be detrimental, especially from sources like ice dams. These ice formations can lead to water seeping under the roof shingles and causing damage to the bricks and mortar. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that your roof system is properly maintained and that there is a cap or other means for shedding water to prevent such issues.
Waterproofing measures like gutter systems or simply making sure that water can flow freely away from the house are crucial. Regularly checking for leaks or damages in gutters and downspouts can prevent water from pooling around the base of the house, which can also cause issues like foundation erosion.
Why You Should Keep Painters Off Your Brick
A side effect of painting brick is that it can no longer breathe. Brick, like many natural materials, is porous and can dry out over time. Once painted, the brick will not be able to dry out, leading to a buildup of moisture that can eventually cause the paint to peel or deteriorate. As a result, you will either need to repaint the brick surface regularly or hire professionals to blast off the old paint and reapply it.
For those who still want to paint their brick, there are alternative solutions. Applying a liquid silicone or using a paint that is specifically formulated for brick can help prevent water from penetrating the surface. However, these solutions should be used with caution and considered a preventive measure rather than a complete solution to painting-related issues.
The Art of Repointing: A Comprehensive Guide
One of the most significant maintenance tasks for a brick house involves repointing. Over time, the mortar between the bricks can become loose or porous, leading to water infiltration and potential damage. Repointing is the process of removing deteriorated mortar and replacing it with new, high-quality mortar.
Steps involved in repointing brick mortar:Inspection: Check the entire brick structure for loose or deteriorating the Area: Clear the area of any debris or loose Out the Old Mortar: Use chisels to remove the old, weakened mortar from the joint. This can be labor-intensive and requires precision to avoid dislodging the Mortar: Mix new mortar specifically designed for repointing, ensuring it matches the color and composition of the original Using a trowel, carefully work the new mortar into the joint. Fill the joint completely and level the and Cure: Trim any excess mortar with a point tool to give a uniform appearance. Allow the new mortar to cure, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the conditions.
Regular repointing can help maintain the structural integrity of your brick house and prevent water damage. Professional masons can also provide guidance and perform the task with precision, ensuring that the mortar joints are well-sealed and the appearance of the brick structure is preserved.
Conclusion
While brick is a durable and attractive building material, it requires careful maintenance to stay in top condition. By focusing on roof retention and proper repointing, you can ensure that your brick house remains beautiful and structurally sound for years to come. Whether you're a homeowner or a property manager, understanding these critical maintenance tasks will help you preserve the value and aesthetics of your brick house.