Brick is frequently used on Toronto homes because it lasts, looks attractive and has a classic feel. With time, exposure to weather, water and usage can cause bricks to deteriorate. If you can see problems with your brickwork, some brick repair Toronto may be necessary. Not addressing the early issues can result in serious damage to your house. Here are seven things that suggest your home needs an immediate response.
- Cracked Bricks Or Joints Between The Bricks
A visible clue that your home needs brick work is if there are cracks in the bricks. There may be cracks both in the bricks themselves and in the mortar that holds them together. What starts as a small crack in your foundation may soon grow, especially in the cold and hot cycles that Toronto experiences each winter. When cracks develop in your walls, water may get inside, causing the foundation of your home to weaken and run the risk of water damage.
- Spalling Bricks
When the surface of a brick comes off in bits and pieces, it is known as spalling. Frequently, water freezing inside the bricks damages them and causes them to crack. When brick starts spalling, it usually suggests the brick is starting to weaken from its core. If you do not fix it early, it can end up getting much worse and may call for the entire brick wall to be replaced.
- Non-flat walls
Bows or bulges in any part of your brick exterior surface are a problem that should be looked at by a professional. It may be because of humidity gathering inside the walls or the house shifting on its foundation. If bowing bricks aren’t fixed promptly, they could collapse in the future. You should get a brickwork repair expert to evaluate and deal with the problem as soon as possible while it’s still minor.
- Efflorescence
Efflorescence is the white substance that can form as a deposit on brick walls. Crystals are created when liquid in the structure moves and brings the salts they contain to the surface. This is usually a result of too much moisture, so this issue requires prompt attention with help from Toronto brick masonry experts.
- Mortar Deterioration
Mortar is responsible for keeping your bricks joined and with age and external effects, it can begin to wear down. Broken mortar makes it easy for the bricks to fall apart and could damage the foundation. It is important to maintain your brickwork by getting it tuckpointed or repointed from time to time.
- Water is leaking inside the house
It’s possible that bricks or mortar are being damaged by water if you find water stains, peeling paint or mold around the walls. If brick gets damaged, it no longer acts as a guard against water. Repairing the bricks in Toronto can stop any further harm indoors and enhance your home’s security.
- Bricks That Are Not Secure
Any loose or missing bricks should be dealt with straight away. They weaken the wall’s structure and might create a safety issue. Any problem with masonry, whether from water, settling foundations or just aging, should be addressed by a qualified worker in masonry as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Brick is very durable and strong, though it requires upkeep from time to time. Should you see any problems described above, deal with them promptly. Fixing the bricks of your Toronto home promptly can prevent large costs and keep your property at its original value. Speak to a masonry professional in your area to guarantee your house is protected, dry and well-maintained for a long time.