Out of all the construction methods used to build homes and all other buildings across the city, brickwork is the most popular option. However, even well-engineered brickwork can deteriorate over time due to the use of poor-quality materials, age, and even weather. Are you aware of the common issues associated with brickwork? Early detection will only help you to call professional brickwork contractors in Sheffield at the earliest for fixes. Reading this blog will not only help you learn about the different brickwork problems but also how professionals fix them to restore a property’s appearance and integrity.
Learn About the Different Types of Common Brickwork Problems
Cracked Bricks and Motor Joints
Discussing the different signs of brickwork damage, cracks in the mortar joints and bricks are the most commonly found. There can be multiple reasons leading to this problem, including freeze-thaw cycles, structural movement and even settlement issues. How do professional contractors fix this problem? Primarily, they always tend to understand whether the cracks are structural or superficial. Moving forward, they remove the damaged mortar and reapply it using matching materials. Damaged bricks are also removed by them and replaced with those that match the existing walls. Reinforcement might be necessary for structural cracks.
Spalling or Flaking Bricks
When moisture seeps into the brick, freezes, and causes the surface to flake or chip, this situation is called spalling. Especially the outside walls exposed to natural elements are the primary victims of this problem. Once you call brick contractors for this problem, they will first try to spot the source of water ingress. Upon spotting the spalled bricks, they can effectively replace them with water-resistant alternatives. Last but not least, they also suggest and tend to apply sealants and water-repellent coatings on the bricks to repair further damage.
Damp Penetration and Efflorescence
Can you spot white powdery stains on bricks or damp patches on your interior walls? They are generally caused by moisture penetrating the brickwork. To solve this problem, professionals primarily investigate downpipes, drainage, and wall coatings. Further, they repair the damaged pointings and even install damp-proof membranes. Often, they also clear and treat affected areas to remove salt deposits. Identifying the root cause and eliminating it is crucial for permanent repair solutions.
Bulging or Bowing Walls
This is a very serious issue, as bowing or building walls might indicate significant foundation problems. Quite often, it is also seen that water leakages weaken the wall’s structural integrity. Spotting this sign, you should not hesitate to call a professional, as it requires immediate attention. Once the professionals arrive at the site, they begin inspecting the foundation and walls to identify damage and any movements. Generally, brickwork contractors use anchors, ties and even steel reinforcements to stabilise the structure. If necessary, they can also rebuild the entire affected section.
Never Ignore Brickwork Issues
Problems associated with the brickwork of your building may appear harmless in the initial stages. However, if you don’t spot and treat them quickly, it can quickly turn into major structural issues. After reading the blog, you should now be aware of the common brickwork problems and how professional brickwork contractors in Sheffield can address them. Have you noticed any of the problems mentioned above in your building? Do not waste time calling us here at Chesterfield Brickwork Plus. We have more than four decades of experience in this sector.