Freeze damage to brick is a common problem in cold weather climates. Damage can occur when water seeps into the brick and freezes, causing the brick to expand and crack.
There are two main types of freeze damage to brick: surface damage and structural damage. Surface damage is usually not serious and can be repaired with a little elbow grease and some mortar. Structural damage is much more serious and can cause the brick to crumble and fall apart. This type of damage requires professional repairs.
If you have Freeze Damaged Bricks, it is important to inspect the damage carefully to determine the extent of the problem. Once you have done this, you can decide whether you need to call in a professional or if you can handle the repairs yourself.
If the damage to your brick is only surface damage, you can probably repair it yourself. Start by cleaning the damaged area with a wire brush to remove any loose mortar or debris.
Once the area is clean, mix up some mortar and use it to fill in any cracks or holes in the brick. Use a trowel to smooth out the mortar and make sure it is level with the rest of the brick. Let the mortar dry for 24 hours before painting or staining the brick to match the rest of the house.
Follow the steps below to learn how to repair freeze-damaged brick.
Step 1: Inspect the damage
The first step is to inspect the damage and determine the best course of action. If the bricks are only cracked, you can probably repair them with a sealant or epoxy. However, if the bricks are broken or chipped, you’ll need to replace them.
Step 2: Clean the area
Before you can repair the damage, you’ll need to clean the area around the affected bricks. Use a wire brush to remove any loose debris, then rinse the area with a hose.
Step 3: Apply a sealant or epoxy
If the bricks are only cracked, you can repair them with a sealant or epoxy. First, mix the sealant or epoxy according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, use a putty knife to apply it to the cracks.
Step 4: Replace the bricks
If the bricks are broken or chipped, you’ll need to replace them. First, remove the damaged bricks by chiseling out the mortar around them. Then, clean the area and apply new mortar. Finally, insert the new bricks and allow the mortar to dry.