How to Repair Spalling Bricks in No Time

When moisture can get behind bricks, it can cause the bricks to expand and then contract as the weather changes. This can lead to a condition known as spalling, where the bricks start to flake and crumble. If left unchecked, spalling can severely damage the structure of your home.

D’Angelo & Sons can help you repair any brick spall damage before it gets out of hand. We have over 50 years of experience in providing brick repair services in Oakville, so we know how to properly fix spalling bricks. Contact us today for a free estimate!

Read on to find out what spalling is, why it happens, places where you’ll most likely find it, and how to stop bricks from flaking. We’ll also give you some tips on how to fix spalling bricks.

What is Spalling Brick?

When moisture from rain, snow, or wet soil gets into a brick, it freezes and expands and causes the brick to crack. After continuous freezing and thawing, the bricks will start to flake and crumble, a process known as spalling.

Spalling on bricks can damage the structural integrity of your home, so it’s important to address the problem as soon as you notice it. But don’t worry; repairing spalling bricks is a relatively easy process that you can do yourself. With a bit of time and effort, you’ll have your bricks looking like new in no time!

What Causes Spalling?

There are several reasons why bricks may start to spall. The most common cause is when water gets behind the bricks and freezes. This can happen if there’s no weep hole in the brick wall or if the flashing around the window is damaged.

Another common cause of spalling is improper installation. If the bricks are laid too close together or if they’re not properly sealed, it can allow water to seep in and cause the bricks to flake.

Finally, spalling can also be caused by the type of brick that’s used. Some bricks are more porous than others and will absorb water more easily. Bricks that are made from shale or clay are more likely to spall than bricks that are made from sandstone or granite.

Where Are You Most Likely to Find Spalling?

You’ll find that water often seeps into bricks through indented mortar joints. You’ll most likely find spalling around leaky gutters and windows, around foundations, on the lower part of walls, in basements, and other places where water can collect and find its way behind the bricks.

In some cases, you may also find that the bricks on your chimney are spalling. This is because the bricks are constantly exposed to the elements and are more likely to get damp. While these are some of the most common places to find spalling, it can really happen anywhere in your home where there are bricks.

If you’re not sure whether or not the bricks on your home are spalling, take a close look at them. If you see any cracks, flaking, or crumbling, then the bricks are definitely spalling and need to be repaired.

Are Spalling Bricks Dangerous?

In short, yes. Spalling bricks can be dangerous because they can cause the structure of your home to become unstable. If the problem is left unchecked, it can lead to serious damage to your home and even put your safety at risk.

Spalling can also make your home more susceptible to mold and mildew because damp conditions are ideal for their growth. Not only can mold and mildew damage your home, but they can also cause health problems like respiratory infections, allergies, and asthma.

If you have any concerns about the structural integrity of your home, it’s best to consult with a professional before attempting to repair the spalling bricks yourself.

How to Stop Bricks From Flaking

The best way to stop flaking is to prevent water getting into your bricks. To do this, we recommend that you saturate the bricks with a masonry sealant. These sealants let your bricks breathe. They are composed of microscopic particles that fill the tiny openings in the brick and prevent water from seeping in.

Another way to prevent flaking is to install an effective drainage system so that water is directed away from your bricks and foundation. This includes things like gutters, downspouts, and French drains.

Can Spalled Bricks be Repaired?

How do you fix a water damaged brick wall? If you already have spalling bricks, don’t worry, they can be easily repaired! The first step is to remove any loose or flaking brick using a chisel and hammer.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. To begin, find and eliminate the cause of the problem. If you can’t find the source of the moisture, your repairs will only be temporary.
2. Next, use a chisel and hammer or power drill to gently remove any loose or flaking bricks from the affected area. Be sure to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris. Don’t forget to remove the old mortar as well!
3. Once all the loose bricks have been removed, clean out the area with a wire brush. This will help the new mortar to adhere better.
4. To repair the damage, mix up some mortar and trowel it into the holes where the bricks were removed. Be sure to pack it in tightly to hold the new bricks in place. Fill the area entirely and smooth out the surface.
5. Finally, cure the mortar by spraying it lightly with water. Do this for at least 3 days.

While most of the steps are relatively straightforward, installing the new bricks can be tricky. Placing mortar smoothly around the new bricks may not be easy for you. You may find it difficult to create a professional-looking finish.

If you’re not confident in your ability to do it yourself, we recommend hiring a professional to do the job for you. They will have the necessary tools and experience to get the job done right the first time.

Contact D’Angelo & Sons If You Can’t do it Yourself

So, is brick spalling serious enough to warrant a call to a professional? If you don’t feel comfortable repairing the damage, we recommend you call a professional. They will be able to quickly and easily repair the spalling bricks and ensure that your home is safe and sound. At D’Angelo & Sons, we have over 50 years of experience repairing and restoring masonry. We would be happy to look at your problem and give you a free estimate. Contact us today at (905) 387 3000!