Proper Repair and Maintenance for Brick Buildings
Brick buildings are strong, durable, and exquisite. Homes are elegant, commercial buildings exude a professional image, and institutional buildings present a cornerstone to communities. The bricks themselves will last for over two-hundred years with proper maintenance. Gentle low pressure washing every few years, ensuring there are no leaks from the roofing, and maintaining the grounds directly around the foundation will keep bricks from fading, prevent damage, and drastically reduce the risk of cracking and crumbling.
The mortar that holds the bricks in place will only last for ten to twenty years, depending on the quality of the original masonry and the exposure to the elements. Loose mortar is detrimental to brick structures. When it begins to deteriorate, it has to be repaired quickly to avoid long-term damage. Water can seep into cracks and get under bricks. The expansion and contraction of that water, as it freezes and thaws, will cause the bricks and mortar to crack and crumble. Loose mortar also results in shifting bricks, can weaken the integrity of the building, and render parts of the structure unstable.
The process of tuckpointing chicago will restore the mortar to the original condition, strength, and appearance. A professional mason can provide tuckpointing services to maintain the stability and beauty of the building. The procedure begins by removing the old mortar to a certain depth. Depending on the damage, one quarter or one half inch may be removed. One to two inches may be removed, if the building is severely damaged. New mortar is mixed, and placed between the bricks. Once it dries, the building is restored, and the bricks are better protected.
The color of the original mortar can be matched so repairs are not evident. Utilizing the traditional procedures with modern technology creates high-quality results that will preserve the architecture. In order to avoid damage that may result in the need for a complete restoration project, tuckpointing chicago can be done as preventative maintenance. Free estimates are offered and customized services can be developed to suit any budget. Do not neglect to have the mortar maintained to save money. The process is far more cost-effective than waiting until a major problem presents itself.
