No matter how resilient brickwork is, it cannot withstand the long-run harsh impact of external weather elements and other pollutants. It will undergo some damage over time, and you must address it promptly to avoid structural failure. Also, deteriorated and dull brickwork is aesthetically unimpressive, impacting your business and the resale value of your property.
However, timely brick pointing NYC can save you from expensive replacement costs. But brick pointing may not be the ideal solution every time. When you leave the damage untreated for too long, it becomes severe. Often, it affects the internal framework of the brick structure, causing a sudden failure. So, it is crucial to note the type and extent of damage to assist the ideal fix.
Today, we have discussed one of the most debated topics: should you choose brick pointing or brick replacement? To get into the depth of it, we require figuring out the significant points of consideration before plunging into brick replacement NYC.
Let’s get started!
Types of Brick Damage
Brick is susceptible to diverse forms of damage resulting from various factors like:
- Ageing
- Weathering and Erosion
- Ground Settlement
- Excessive Moisture
- Mold and Mildew
- Dirt and Grime
- Corrosion
- Pollutants
- Improper Mortar Mix and
- Lack of Maintenance
All of the above factors are responsible for causing havoc to brickwork including:
- Cracks- Perhaps one of the most common problems with bricks- cracks occur in all shapes and sizes. Vertical, horizontal, or diagonal, you can spot minor or long, deep cracks in your brickwork at some point. If they are small and superficial, brick pointing NYC can aid in an appropriate fix. However, if the crevices are too wide and deep, you need to replace the bricks to improve the strength and functionality.
- Damp- Being a porous masonry material, bricks can retain water if the drainage facility is inadequate. When water penetrates the inner layers, it affects the structural integrity of the brickwork. In such scenarios, brick replacement NYC helps restore vigor and solidity.
- Efflorescence- You may often notice white, chalky deposits on brick surfaces, leaving behind an unpleasant stain. It looks unsightly, compromising the curb appeal of the structure. Though considered harmless, when left unattended, it can be detrimental. Cleaning the surfaces and proper maintenance is necessary to combat the problem.
- Crumbling Mortar- The cement, lime, and sand mix, also called mortar, is the bonding agent between two bricks. Over time, it deteriorates, causing crumbling, chipping, or loosening. It curtails the durability of the masonry structure. However, the good news is that brick pointing NYC by a qualified professional can effortlessly fix the issue in no time!
- Spalling- Flaking or peeling of brick surfaces is referred to as spalling. It results from temperature fluctuations and moisture seepage. Spalling compromises the compactness and strength of bricks. So, replacement is always a better choice than pointing to fix spalling.
- Broken or Chipped Bricks- Physical impact or soil settlement can severely affect brickwork. It causes cracking, chipping, and breaking of bricks which is irreparable. So, brick replacement NYC will be ideal to combat the issue and secure the structure with enhanced durability.
Conclusion
Brickwork possesses timeless classic beauty, imparting a pleasing appeal to any masonry structure. With proper maintenance and restoration, it can last long, delivering relentless functionality. So, whether brick pointing or replacement, both aim at restoring the lost vitality, stability, and aesthetics of brickwork. The choice depends entirely on the graveness of the damage and budget.
