This blog post will discuss how the brickwork’s age can influence its stability.
The age of your Maryland brickwork will impact numerous things, such as its overall strength and necessary repair processes. Brickwork can last centuries with proper maintenance and repairs. This starts with understanding your brickwork’s unique makeup. For one, there has been a shift in mortar mixtures and application processes over the years. Knowing when to use age-old techniques and when to utilize newer methods of brickwork restoration is vital, which is why it’s best to hire an experienced mason professional like Del Prete Masonry! This blog post will discuss how the brickwork’s age can influence its stability.
Changes in Mortar Mixtures Over Time
Your brickwork’s age can influence its stability from how it was built in the first place. Historical brickwork was constructed and applied differently from modern brickwork. In recent years, a significant demand for mortar mixtures has produced a darker mortar that is more uniform in appearance. A professional mason can also test the mortar to determine its composition.
Moreover, masonry mortar has been made more substantial over time. If the old mortar is not as robust as the new repointed mortar, it will pressure the surrounding brickwork. This will eventually trigger bricks to crack. There have also been changes in the actual techniques to apply brickwork.
Maryland Brickwork: Significant Natural Stresses
Another factor in how the brickwork’s age can influence its stability is the frequency of exposure to natural and artificial disasters. Maryland’s weather is unpredictable, ranging from snowy and cold to hot and humid. Plus, floods are not uncommon as well. So, regularly inspecting and maintaining your brickwork is necessary to remain strong. If you ignore it, the brickwork will eventually fail.
Moreover, snow salt on the ground can also damage brickwork. In addition, salt and deicers are commonly used during Maryland winters. They are known as efflorescence. When building a new brick wall, the ideal way to minimize the risk of efflorescence is to utilize low-alkali cement, clean sands, and clean water with no salt.
CONTACT DEL PRETE MASONRY TODAY!
Whether you are ready to start your next masonry project or are still hesitant and have questions, Del Prete Masonry is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to get it right the first time. Questions? Want to visit some of our residential or commercial projects? Ready to set up a consultation? Feel free to give us a call at 410-683-0650 or visit us online. We are happy to serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and to keep up with our new and exciting projects, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest