Brickwork is crucial to the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of many buildings. Whether you're a homeowner or business owner, well-maintained brickwork is essential for preserving your property's value. Over time, brickwork can become worn down after being exposed to the natural elements, causing it to break or become weaker. From minor damage to major cracks, there are several ways that your brickwork can suffer from wear and tear. If you do notice any kind of visible damage or unusual appearance in your brickwork, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent the problem from worsening.
Our article is here to dive into the considerations and signs to look for in your brick work, as well as the key things to lookout for in a reliable brickwork company. To learn more about keeping your bricks in tip top condition, keep on reading.
When Are Brickwork Repairs Needed?
While brickwork is one of the most durable ways to build structures, it can also suffer under the test of time and exposure to the elements. Recognising the signs of damaged brickwork can help you address repairs as soon as possible, preventing further structural problems from occurring. We've outlined some of the key signs you can look out for below.
Cracked Bricks
Cracked bricks are a serious issue that can arise for many reasons. From foundation issues to temperature changes, there are several wear and tear causes of cracked bricks, but they can lead to much more serious problems if they are not addressed. Impact damage can also result in cracked bricks, especially around doors and windows.
Weather Damage
Weather damage is a common cause of the deterioration of breaks. Storms, fluctuating temperatures, and other weathering can damage brickwork over time. Rain, wind, and frost can erode mortar joints, leading to water penetration and damage to the brickwork underneath. In coastal areas, salt spray can also deteriorate brickwork more quickly.
Structural Problems
Structural issues like foundation problems or wall damage can impact the integrity of your brickwork. These problems will require professional assessment and repair.
Some signs of structural problems include:
● Cracking in the brickwork, especially diagonal cracks
● Bowing or leaning walls
● Uneven floors or ceilings
If you do notice any of these signs, it's essential to consult a structural engineer to determine the extent of the damage as soon as possible so that the issue doesn't worsen.
Water Issues
If water manages to penetrate brickwork, it can lead to mould, rot and other serious issues that can impact the integrity of your brickwork. Some of the common signs of water damage include:
● Leaky roofs or gutters
● Faulty drainage systems
In order to prevent water damage, it's crucial to address any leaks quickly and ensure proper drainage. Regular inspections of roofs and gutters can help identify potential problems early on and help to prevent them.
Aesthetics
While aesthetics are not a structural concern, the appearance of your brickwork can affect the curb appeal of your property. Over time, dirt, grime, and weathering can dull the appearance of bricks. Professional cleaning and repointing can help you restore the beauty of your brickwork and enhance the value of your property.
Types Of Brickwork Repairs
There are many ways that a team of specialists can repair brickwork on your property, depending on the severity of the issue and the style of your building. Some of the common techniques used to carry out brickwork repairs are listed below.
● Repointing - Repointing is a technique which involves removing damaged or crumbling mortar between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar. This type of repair is essential when mortar joints have eroded as a result of weather exposure, age, or improper maintenance. Damaged mortar not only affects the building's appearance but can negatively impact its structural stability
● Brick Replacement - Brick replacement, as the name suggests, is a careful removal of bricks which are then replaced with new ones. They are selected to match the original colour, design and texture of the previous bricks, maintaining the aesthetic of the wall. These repairs are needed when bricks are beyond repair due to cracking, frost damage, or wear and tear or if bricks have become loose or dislodged due to structural shifts.
● Stonework Repairs - Similar to brickwork repairs, stonework repairs involves restoring or replacing damaged stone elements such as cills, lintels, or decorative stone pieces. Stonework specialists may use matching stone or use techniques like carving or patching to ensure a consistent appearance across the bricks being amended.
● Reinforcement - Reinforcement techniques include things like wall tie replacements, brick stitching, or adding steel reinforcements are used to stabilise walls and prevent any further movement. This is needed on properties that are experiencing bulging or bowing walls due to foundation shifts or structural issues. This technique is also great for ensuring long term stability.
How To Find Reliable Brickwork Specialists
When it comes to finding the right brickwork specialists for your property, there are several key things to consider to ensure that you find the right stonework repair team.
Do Your Research
Doing your research is the first and most important step when it comes to choosing a brickwork specialist. Be sure to browse your area, look into the services offered by different companies and don’t forget to get quotes! Getting a range of free quotes from different companies can help you assess which services are right for you and within your budget. This can also help you gauge which companies are overcharging for certain services!
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get in touch with different companies, so that you can make the most informed decision.
Referrals & References
If you are referred to a brickwork company, or you hear about them through word of mouth, this can be a good indication of their services. Companies that have been used by friends, family or colleagues that are recommended to you can give you peace of mind, knowing that their services are of a good standard. Knowing that they have carried out quality work on other properties with success may make you more likely to use them!
Check Previous Work
If you’re looking for stonework repairs on a particular type of property, or brickwork repairs that address a specific type of problem, checking portfolios is a good type of research to do. You can find portfolios and examples of previous work on many company websites, showing you a before and after of their projects. This can help you judge the quality and standard of the services that a company offers.
Read Reviews
Reviews are another thing to consider when looking for a brickwork repair company. Reviews from previous clients will give a clear and honest opinion on the services and customer care taken by the company. Previous clients giving their reviews will give you a good idea of what their experience was like with a certain company. This can help you decide whether or not you want to work with certain organisations and companies with a range of bad reviews may not be the best choice.
Local Professionals
Searching locally for brickwork professionals can also help you find a more appropriate organisation to help you with your brickwork problems. Local organisations will not only be able to get to you in a more efficient time, they will also have a better understanding of the local area and surroundings. If there are foundation issues impacting your brickwork or other structural issues that require an assessment of the ground, local professionals may be more useful and have an understanding of the ground conditions in your area.
Point UK: Brickwork Specialists & More
We've outlined everything you need to know going forward with your brick repairs in our article, and following our tips can help you maintain your property for the years to come. Understanding your brick repair needs and choosing the right company for your repairs is essential.
Here at Point UK, we understand the importance of finding qualified and trained brickwork professionals to help you with your property. From residential to commercial spaces, our team is here to help you with your stonework or brick problems. To learn more about our brickwork services, feel free to check out our website or get in touch with our team today for more information.
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