Brickwork is a beautiful and durable feature of many homes, but like all building materials, it requires regular care and attention to maintain its appearance and structural integrity. While bricks are known for their toughness, weather conditions and other factors can still cause wear and tear over time. Proper maintenance ensures that your brickwork remains in top condition and avoids costly repairs in the future. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential steps to keep your brickwork looking fresh and well-maintained.
Inspect your brickwork once a year
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your brickwork is to schedule an annual inspection. Setting aside time once a year to carefully inspect the outside of your home for signs of damage can prevent expensive repairs down the road. Problems to look for include cracks, holes, efflorescence (a white, powdery residue), rust stains, flaking, and any bulges in the brickwork. These are all warning signs that your brickwork may need attention.
It’s equally important to check the mortar between your bricks. Damaged mortar can allow water to seep in, leading to further damage. A simple test is to use a garden hose to wet the mortar. If the mortar looks like it’s crumbling while wet, you’ll want to address it immediately to prevent further issues.
Seal your brickwork
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to brickwork. Rainwater or moisture rising from the ground can seep into cracks, causing significant damage over time. Winter is especially dangerous, as water trapped in cracks can expand when it freezes, making the cracks larger and worsening the problem. You’ve likely seen a bottle crack in the freezer due to water expansion – the same thing can happen to your bricks.
The best way to combat moisture is by sealing your brickwork. Sealing creates a protective barrier, preventing water from seeping in. You can find brick sealant at most home and garden stores, but it’s recommended to have this done professionally, as improper application could harm your bricks. Always make sure the bricks are clean before sealing to ensure maximum protection.
Clear out the weep holes
Weep holes are small gaps built into the mortar of brick walls. They allow moisture to escape and prevent water damage. They also help with airflow, which can stop the buildup of mould and mildew. Over time, weep holes can become clogged with dirt and debris, rendering them ineffective.
To maintain proper ventilation and drainage, it’s important to regularly check and clean your weep holes. Start with a visual inspection. If you notice a clog, use compressed air or a piece of wire to clear it. Then, use your garden hose to ensure the weep holes are functioning properly. You should see a steady flow of water draining through the holes.
Monitor drainage
Proper drainage around your brick walls is essential for keeping moisture away from the foundation. Without a good drainage system in place, water can pool around your walls, leading to long-term damage. Keep an eye on your gutters, downspouts, and the grading around your home to ensure rainwater is flowing away from the brickwork. If your drainage system isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to water buildup. This can eventually cause your bricks and mortar to weaken. By maintaining proper drainage, you can protect the structural integrity of your brick walls for years to come.
Use detergent to clean your brickwork
Bricks are durable, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need cleaning. Regular cleaning not only keeps your brickwork looking fresh but also helps prevent long-term damage. Using a mild detergent mixed with water, gently scrub the surface of your bricks with a natural or synthetic brush (avoid using wire brushes, as they can cause damage). Aim to clean your brickwork at least once a year. If you notice discolouration or efflorescence forming on the surface, clean more regularly.
Efflorescence is the white powdery residue that sometimes appears on brick surfaces. It may not damage your bricks directly, but it’s certainly unsightly and can be a sign of underlying moisture problems. You can remove efflorescence using your detergent mix and a brush. Just be gentle to avoid damaging the brick. Once you’ve cleared the residue, make sure to address the root cause—usually excess moisture seeping into the brickwork. Without tackling the moisture issue, the efflorescence is likely to return, so proper sealing or fixing any drainage issues should be high on your to-do list.
Prevent mould and mildew from building up on your bricks
Mould, moss, and mildew can be particularly harmful to brickwork, as they thrive in damp, shaded areas and can increase moisture retention in the bricks. Regularly inspect areas of your home that are prone to shade or close to plants, as these spots are prime locations for mould growth.
While ivy or other creeping plants might add character and charm to the exterior of your home, they can wreak havoc on your brickwork. The roots of these plants tend to burrow into the mortar, weakening it over time and creating spaces for moisture to accumulate. This can lead to cracks, water damage, and other forms of deterioration. To keep your brickwork in top condition, it’s best to remove any plants growing directly against your bricks. Keep vegetation trimmed back to prevent long-term damage. If you want greenery near your home, consider placing it in pots or at a safe distance from the walls.
If you do notice moss or mildew starting to grow, it’s important to clean it off quickly. An easy method is to mix a cup of bleach into around 4 litres of water. Soak the affected area thoroughly with water first to prevent bleach damage, then scrub the mould or mildew away with the bleach solution. This simple maintenance step can go a long way in preserving the longevity of your brickwork.
Conclusion
Maintaining your brickwork doesn’t have to be complicated, but regular care is essential to prevent small problems from turning into expensive repairs. By conducting annual inspections, sealing your brickwork, cleaning out weep holes, and staying on top of cleaning, you’ll keep your bricks looking new for years to come. A little upkeep goes a long way in preserving the beauty and integrity of your home’s brickwork.
While we don’t offer maintenance services, we can help you with beautiful brickwork for your new home. Contact us or take a look at some of our past work.