Summary:
Why Prompt Brick Wall Repair Is Important
Ignoring cracks in brick walls can lead to costly structural problems. Small fractures allow moisture to seep in, accelerating deterioration and weakening the foundation. In Boston’s freeze-thaw climate, water expands in winter, making cracks worse. Whether it’s a residential masonry wall or part of a commercial structure, timely repair by a qualified masonry company secures your property’s value.
Inspect and Diagnose the Damage
A professional masonry contractor starts with a thorough inspection. They’ll identify the type of crack: hairline, vertical, stair-step, or horizontal. The root cause will then be determined. Structural movement, water damage, or poor initial masonry construction could be to blame. Understanding the cause guides the repair strategy, whether for brick masonry, stone masonry, or concrete masonry surfaces.
Prepare the Work Area
A professional masonry contractor starts with a thorough inspection. They’ll identify the type of crack: hairline, vertical, stair-step, or horizontal. The root cause will then be determined. Structural movement, water damage, or poor initial masonry construction could be to blame. Understanding the cause guides the repair strategy, whether for brick masonry, stone masonry, or concrete masonry surfaces.
Remove Damaged Material
The damaged bricks and deteriorated mortar are carefully removed using chisels and grinders. This prevents further damage to the surrounding structure. In some cases, only a few bricks are affected; in others, a larger section may need dismantling. The Masonry contractor makes sure the wall’s integrity is maintained during this stage.
Rebuild with Matching Materials
New bricks are selected to closely match the original in color, size, and texture. Fresh mortar is mixed to replicate the existing wall’s appearance. This attention to detail is critical in historic Boston neighborhoods. The replacement bricks are laid using proper alignment and spacing, restoring strength and preserving the aesthetic continuity of your brick masonry.
Tuckpoint and Seal for Longevity
After rebuilding, the new joints are tuckpointed—refilled with fresh mortar and tooled for a clean, weather-tight finish. A protective sealant may also be applied to guard against future moisture intrusion. These final steps make your repaired wall strong, with improved resistance to Boston’s seasonal climate conditions.
Complete the Process with Trusted Masonry Experts in Boston
Once the final inspection is complete and the work area is cleaned, your repaired brick wall should be pristine. But masonry work doesn’t end at installation. If you have small cracks, are dealing with weather damage, aging materials, or structural shifting, Academy Masonry can help fix via our services, including masonry installation, chimney services, and brickwork restoration.