The exposed brick walls are timeless and they can be a part of an old heritage building or a new interior design decision. They provide warmth, texture and personality to space. However, underneath the beauty, bricks remain a porous material, which implies that they can absorb water, become susceptible to dirt and even wear out with time without protection. It is in that case that a quality exposed brick wall sealant comes in handy.
Why Bricks Need Protection
Bricks are perceived to be hard but they are definitely not invulnerable. The fact that they are porous implies that they can absorb moisture easily when there is rainy or humid weather. That trapped moisture may freeze in colder climates and create cracks and flaking of the surface. Unsealed brick indoors may attract dust, stain and even discharge small particles into the air. The minor problems may eventually become costly repairs over time when not taken care of in the early stages.
The Role of a Good Sealant
Exposed brick wall sealant acts as a shield, making a barrier that prevents moisture, stains and dirt, but allows the brick to breathe. This is vital since entrapment of moisture within the bricks may be as detrimental as leaving them exposed. An excellent sealant would ensure that the wall maintains its strength as well as its outlook over a long period of time.
Moisture Control and Longevity
One of the greatest foes of exposed brick is moisture. When it finds its way in it can dissolve mortar joints, promote the growth of molds and trigger structural issues. The right sealant prevents that so that the wall can resist rain, humidity, and spills without getting damaged. This prevents water seeping in and therefore the brick remains hard and the entire lifespan of the wall is increased tremendously.
Protection from Everyday Wear and Tear
Bricks can be damaged not only by moisture. Brick walls are likely to be scratched, scuffed, and get dirty in busy places. In the absence of a sealant, such marks can penetrate inside the surface to a point where it is hard to clean them. An exposed brick wall sealant is applied well and serves as a form of barrier to the wall, thus, one can easily wipe off stains and maintain the look of the wall with its original color and texture.
Preserving the Aesthetic Appeal
Changing the appearance of the brick is one of the greatest fears of people when it comes to sealing brick. Although it is possible to achieve a slight improvement in color with some sealants, most are made to be clear and virtually invisible after application. This is to preserve the raw, rustic beauty of the brick, but provide protective cover that is unseen. This is how you have the best of both worlds; style and durability.
When and How Often to Seal
On newly exposed or freshly cleaned brick, sealing is preferably done immediately to avoid any moisture and dirt settling in. Depending on the quality of the sealant and conditions to which the wall is subjected, resealing is normally required every few years. Moist or frequently touched areas can be more prone to maintenance to maintain the wall in full protection.
Final Thoughts
A sealant of exposed brick wall is a finishing touch but a crucial step in protecting the life and beauty of your walls. It keeps your brick dry, clean and wear-resistant to remain strong and beautiful even after years. Inside or out, finishing your exposed brick is a worthwhile investment both in appearance and long-lastingness.