Naturally, brick is a low-maintenance construction material and a favourite choice for many homeowners. However, adverse climatic conditions can affect the integrity of the brick and cause it to deteriorate. If you live in an extremely cold or hot region, you should frequently inspect your home's brickwork appearance and structure. Any signs of deterioration could indicate fundamental issues requiring instant brick restoration. The following are several signs that your brickwork needs professional attention.
Cracking in the Walls
Brickwork may develop cracks over time due to natural wear and tear. Although this is a normal occurrence, large and conspicuous cracks may point to a deeper structural issue. Cracks do not only taint the appearance of the brickwork, but they also serve as an entry point for water or moisture. It is advisable to call a brick restoration expert immediately after the cracks begin to form. The professional will remove and replace the cracked bricks. Thus, with early intervention, you can restore the brickwork's aesthetic appearance and your home's structural integrity.
Crumbling of the Bricks
Another sign that shows a need for brick restoration is when bricks start to crumble. Crumbled bricks appear as if they are compressed or crushed. Brickwork may crumble due to the freeze-thaw process that occurs during winter. In this process, the water trapped between bricks freezes due to the cold weather and thaws as the weather warms up. These repeated cycles of contraction and expansion may lead to the crumbling of the brickwork. Failing to correct the issue in time can lead to severe structural damage that would need costly repairs to rectify. Therefore, you should call a brick restoration contractor to replace crumbled brick and reinforce the brickwork.
Whitish Powder on the Walls
A dusty, white deposit on the brickwork is not a good sign. It forms as a result of efflorescence. The efflorescence process occurs when soluble salts get dissolved into the moisture trapped in the brickwork. When evaporation happens, the salts create a whitish powder on the surface of the brickwork. Although efflorescence does not cause structural damage to the home, it can potentially lead to water damage. The best solution is to call an expert to find the moisture source and seal it.
If your home shows any of the above signs, you need to consider brick restoration. An early appointment with a reputable brick restoration expert can save your brickwork from further structural damage.
