BRICK REPAIR TORONTO

Brick Restoration Toronto

A big part of our masonry work is brick repair. Brick repair is part of Masonry restoration, also known as masonry repair or masonry conservation, is the process of repairing, restoring or preserving your homes exterior walls and other elements made of bricks & Stonework. Masonry restoration is a specialized form of preservation that focuses on the repair and maintenance of homes and buildings made primarily out of brick and stone.  specialize in masonry work

Brick Repair - Tuckpointing

What Is Repointing and Tuckpointing in Masonry Services?

Repointing and tuckpointing (or tuck pointing) are essential masonry services designed to repair and maintain the integrity of brick structures.

Repointing

Repointing involves removing and replacing damaged or deteriorated mortar from the joints between bricks. This process:

  • Enhances Structural Stability: By renewing the mortar, repointing ensures that the bricks remain securely in place.
  • Prevents Water Infiltration: Repointing seals gaps and cracks, safeguarding the structure from moisture penetration, which can lead to further damage.

Tuckpointing

Tuckpointing, on the other hand, is a specialized technique that not only restores the mortar but also improves the aesthetic appearance of the brickwork. This method:

  • Uses Two Different Mortars: One to match the brick color and another, narrower one for the joint lines, creating a crisp, clean look.
  • Simulates Fine Joints: It gives the illusion of tightly packed bricks, enhancing the visual appeal of the masonry.

Both processes are crucial for preserving the longevity and beauty of brick structures, ensuring they remain sturdy and visually appealing for years to come.

Tuckpointing Toronto

Spalling Brick Repair

Spalling is a term used to describe the weathering of a brick surface, which causes it to lose its shape. Spalling can occur on walls, chimneys, and other areas where bricks are placed.

The most common cause of spalling is high water content in mortar joints, which erodes the brick surface. The problem can be corrected by removing the damaged brick or mortar and replacing it with new materials.

Brick is a soft material and can be easily damaged by the elements, which include:

  • freezing and thawing
  • water from rain or snow
  • moisture from air in your home that comes in contact with the brick exterior.

Here’s how we fix spalling bricks:

1) Remove any loose mortar from the joint between the brick and adjacent surface. Use a wire
brush to remove any remaining mortar that has adhered to the brick face.

2) Clean off any dirt from both sides of the damaged area with soap and water, then rinse well with clean water. Allow drying completely before proceeding further with repairs.

Spalling Brick Repair

How is Brick Cleaning Performed to Revitalize Brickwork?

Transforming the look of your brickwork begins with a comprehensive cleaning process. Here’s how it works:

  1. Inspection and Assessment
    First, a thorough inspection of the brick surface is conducted to identify the extent of dirt, grime, and stains. This helps in determining the most suitable cleaning method.

  2. Pre-wetting the Surface
    To prevent the cleaning solution from soaking in too deeply and causing damage, the brickwork is often pre-wetted with water.

  3. Application of Cleaning Solution
    Depending on the type of staining and brick material, a specific cleaning solution is applied. Solutions might include:

    • Mild Detergents: For general dirt and grime.
    • Acid-Based Cleaners: Such as muriatic acid, for removing tougher stains and mineral deposits.
    • Eco-Friendly Alternatives: Like Simple Green, for a more environmentally conscious approach.
  4. Scrubbing and Agitation
    The cleaner is worked into the brick with soft-bristle brushes or low-pressure washers to lift out the dirt and stains without damaging the surface.

  5. Rinsing
    After scrubbing, the brickwork is thoroughly rinsed with water to remove any residue from the cleaning agents. This step is crucial to prevent any long-term damage caused by leftover chemicals.

  6. Final Inspection
    A final check ensures that all stains and grime have been effectively removed, and the brickwork looks revitalized.

By following these steps meticulously, your brickwork can be restored to its original beauty, enhancing the overall aesthetic and longevity of the structure.

Failing Masonry! Why?
And the fix!

failing-masonry

Historic Brick Restoration

It’s no secret that historic buildings are important, but why?

Historic buildings are important because they represent a specific place and time. They make us feel like we’re stepping back in time when we visit them – whether that’s a castle or a museum. 

Historic buildings provide insight into the past and can help us learn about our ancestors’ lives. In addition to being educational, restoring historic buildings boosts the economy by creating jobs for architects, contractors, builders and more!

These building were typically made out either brick or stone or in most cases both. Replacing bricks or stone is usually necessary. It’s important of course to match the brick replacement with exact match bricks so that original look is maintained whenever possible.

Under Historic restoration, there are now many homes that are over a century old and are considered “heritage homes” and are protected as such under Canadian Law.

With one’s Home and even in the Commercial building industry some materials have been used for so long that people have forgotten the importance of proper care. Brick repair, restoration and masonry repair are all important things we should be aware of.

Brick is one of the most popular building materials available today. It’s durable, sustainable and versatile in its uses. However, it can crack or erode over time if not properly cared for. If you notice your brick is starting to look worn out or damaged then it may be time to consider some repairs.

Brick repair or brick restoration can transform your home, giving it a new lease of life. Whether you want to restore the look of the brickwork on your house or replace defective bricks, our team can help. We have years of experience in restoring homes using traditional techniques and materials such as brick or stone. We’re fully insured and offer free quotes for all work carried out by us. So fix your home now!

Historic Restoration

Give a call or request a quote either way as Toronto’s  premiere Masonry Contractors we will always ensure that your are serviced properly!

Brick Repair
Brick Repair Oakville