Brick spalling is a common issue that can develop in masonry structures over time. It arises when the surface or edges of bricks begin to crack, chip, and crumble away. Left unaddressed, spalling can progress and seriously undermine the integrity and stability of walls.
Understanding the root causes and effective preventative measures is important for preserving masonry over the long run. In this blog post, we’ll discover the reasons for brick spalling and how to fix crumbling masonry.
Causes for Bricks Spalling
Several factors frequently play a role in the onset and progression of brick spalling if not properly managed. Let’s examine some of the most common causes in deeper detail:
Moisture Infiltration
Moisture is one of the leading causes of spalling in bricks. Bricks can absorb water that enters through small cracks or gaps. Over time, repeated wetting and drying cycles from rain or rising groundwater can create hydraulic pressure. This pressure intensifies during freezing and gradually causes internal damage, seen as spalling.
Inadequate roof drainage systems and improper installation of flashings and weep holes are sources of moisture infiltration. Ground-level flooding or saturated soil in contact with lower wall areas can also cause damage.
Improper Installation Techniques
The methods used during bricklaying significantly impact the long-term durability of the bricks. Common installation errors can create paths for water infiltration. These include using inconsistent or contaminated mortar mixtures and failing to rake and tool joints properly. Skipping necessary bonding treatments and leaving gaps due to uneven mortar applications also contribute to the problem.
Contaminant Exposure
Certain chemical exposures can cause bricks to deteriorate over time. Air pollutants and cleaning chemicals that come into prolonged contact with brick surfaces may penetrate the material. Some chemicals can react with compounds in the brick, gradually weakening its underlying structure. Without protection, prolonged or concentrated contact with these contaminants accelerates the rate of spalling in bricks.
Effects of Plant Growth
The growth of plants and vines directly attached to masonry walls can also contribute to brick spalling. Vegetation retains moisture against the brick surface. Repeated cycles of wetting and drying from this trapped moisture place pressure on bricks.
Over many years, this intermittent moisture presence can damage bricks and cause outer layers to delaminate and spall. Proper trimming and removal of plants growing on facade walls help reduce their negative impacts on the crumbling masonry.
Other Factors
Some additional factors may contribute to brick spalling developing or worsening over long periods. High-pressure cleaning methods used for maintenance can directly erode already fragile, aged surfaces and accelerate the spalling process.
General environmental weathering, like freeze-thaw cycles, also weakens bricks as their composition deteriorates. Regular inspection and maintenance play an important role in limiting the effects of these various spalling risks to prolong the lifespan of masonry structures.
Solutions for Crumbling Masonry
Repairing crumbling masonry from brick spalling requires a holistic approach that addresses both the immediate symptoms and underlying root causes. Without determining and remedying what initially led to deterioration, the issues are likely to reoccur over time. That’s why it’s important to utilize solutions customized for each building and situation.
Some of the key components of such a customized strategic plan for crumbling brickwork may include:
Routine Inspections
Regular inspections are one of the most important preventative measures homeowners can take. This involves a thorough inspection of the entire masonry structure at least annually to catch any signs of deterioration early. Professional inspections provide a more comprehensive analysis. Any cracks, loose bricks or mortar, discoloration, or other irregularities can be addressed promptly before worsening.
Maintenance
Ongoing maintenance plays a key role in preserving masonry long-term. Deteriorating mortar joints should be raked out and repointed with a matching formula. This helps seal the structure and prevents water infiltration.
Minor cracks and holes in bricks should be patched to stop further damage. Trimming back plant growth and cleaning gutters/downspouts regularly keeps excess moisture away from walls. A breathable masonry sealer applied as directed provides added protection from water absorption to the crumbling masonry.
Improving Installation Methods
For new construction or full repointing/rebuilding projects, utmost care is taken to follow professional standards. A compatible, breathable mortar mix should be used during re-pointing and any masonry repair work.
Proper raking and tooling of the mortar joints is important during new construction or repairs. Minor flaws can undermine longevity, so high-quality workmanship, supervision, and inspection are essential to prevent crumbling masonry.
Protecting from Contaminants
Measures should be taken to minimize exposure to chemical or biological contaminants. To protect against these contaminants, apply a protective sealant or clear barrier coating on bricks that are exposed to chemicals. For routine maintenance, use low-pressure, non-erosive standard cleaning methods. Also, using buffers to shield bricks from vehicle emissions can help in industrial or urban areas.
Structural Evaluation and Repair
Experienced masonry professionals perform a comprehensive on-site evaluation for advanced crumbling masonry. They examine the bricks and mortar for cracks or other issues and check for excess water within the walls.
After this thorough review, a customized repair strategy is designed. The plan aims to fix any cracks, patch damaged areas, or rebuild sections that have crumbled. Some bricks may need replacing to match the existing ones. Specialized tools and techniques are then used to strengthen and restore the integrity of the structure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, continued monitoring and preventative efforts optimally keep masonry structures sound for generations of homeowners and building occupants to enjoy. This preserves safety while maintaining masonry structures’ inherent durability, integrity, and appeal for decades to come. With a proactive approach personalized to each situation, resilient crumbling masonry solutions can preserve historic brickwork for years to come.
For advanced cases, expert evaluation by specialists like Alberta Parging helps determine customized solutions as needed. Contact us today for a free inspection and repair consultation.
