Masonry structures are typically extremely durable, hardwearing and long lasting, but as with most construction materials, time and general wear and tear can cause them to become damaged. In fact, there are a number of different factors that can contribute to masonry damage, either directly or indirectly:
The subsidence of soil
Referring to the soil’s natural settlement over time, should subsidence cause the ground to shift, pressure can be placed upon a building’s structure, and put the masonry elements at risk of damage.
Changes to the climate and seasons
From thunderstorms and hurricanes to intense heat and freezing winters, many buildings are forced to endure a lot of different and often, extreme weather and climatic changes, each of which can put it under undue strain and cause it to crack or break.
Corrosion and deterioration of materials
The bricks and mortar of a structure can begin to break down over time and as a result of exposure to a variety of different weather conditions. When they do, this can weaken them and make them more vulnerable to damage.
Ongoing construction work
If major construction work is going on close to a building, the vibrations caused by the machinery can place an unnecessary burden on its structural integrity, and make it more prone to cracking or breaking.
Soils in your area that are reactive
Soil that expands once exposed to water is known as reactive soil, and is something that’s capable of causing great stress to the foundation of a building.
Neighboring trees
The roots of trees within the immediate vicinity of a building can put its foundation under pressure, and lead to cracks or breakages in the masonry.
Unprofessional masonry work
If a building hasn’t been constructed with due care and attention when laying the bricks and mortar, excess stress can be placed upon the brickwork itself, or on the stone or stucco.
Naturally, ensuring that any construction work you have carried out is done so by a reputable and experienced masonry contractor, is one of the best ways of to protect your masonry from future damage.
If you suspect that your masonry may be suffering from, or be at risk of, any of the above factors, you should seek help from an experienced masonry contractor before the problem can get any worse, and consequently, cost you more to repair or restore.
So, your masonry is damaged – should you have it repaired or restored?
Knowing the difference between the restoration of brick and the repair of brick, is important before you engage the services of a masonry contractor.
What is brick restoration?
In this process, bricks are cleaned and repaired professionally in order to restore them to their former glory. A masonry contractor will power wash the bricks, and repair any cracks or gaps.
What is brick repair?
During brick repair, structural damage suffered by the bricks is repaired, and may involve damaged bricks being replaced, along with cracks, gaps and breaks being fixed.
You probably have a good idea yourself now, of which type of work is required on your brickwork, but if you’re still in doubt, a masonry contractor will help you identify the problem and get it fixed for you.
It’s easy to take masonry work for granted, and to imagine that well-constructed masonry buildings or hardscaping features will last forever. But the reality is that all masonry will suffer some degree of damage over time, and the sooner it can be prevented or repaired, the better it will be for the structure in question, and the better it will be for your bank balance, too.