Best Techniques To Replace A Damaged Brick

Best Techniques To Replace A Damaged Brick

If you have a brick façade then it’s inevitable that your bricks will start to become damaged over time. They are exposed to all the different weather systems, from scorching heat to heavy rain and wind. These elements will wear the outer edge of your bricks and, eventually, can cause them to crack or parts of them to chip off 

Of course, there are other reasons your bricks can be damaged, such as being hit by something. The older the house the more common it is to have brick repointing undertaken.

This is when all the cement is removed from between the bricks and replaced, making your house look like new again. Of course, repointing and replacing damaged bricks does more than make your house look good. The brick façade prevents water from getting into your home and causing an array of damp issues to your property and your health.

The good news is that damaged bricks can be replaced yourself, you simply need a little time and a few tools.

Get A Brick

It may be possible to remove the brick and turn it around, effectively replacing it without getting a new brick. You’ll have to estimate if this is an option as you won’t be able to see the brick. If it’s not, then you’ll want a brick that’s as close to the original color as possible.

When you’re ready to start replacing the brick put your new brick in water and let it soak for at least an hour. 

Removing The Mortar

The mortar is the cement around the brick holding it in position. You’ll need to remove this to slide the brick out. The easiest way to do this is to use a cordless drill and a small drill bit. Simply drill a row of holes in the mortar as close to each other as possible. 

You can then use a flat screwdriver to brush the mortar out of the joins. 

Remove The Brick

With the mortar out of the wall, you should be able to slide the brick out. You’ll have limited room to grab the brick, which means it will take a little wiggling. You can use the flat screwdriver to help with this process but be gentle to avoid damaging the surrounding bricks. 

Don’t forget to clean out the hole, making sure all the loose mortar is removed.

Mix Your Mortar

You can use a ready ix mortar or mix your own. It’s a good idea to have a mortar coloring mix that can be added to match the new mortar to the existing stuff. 

Once mixed, spray the hole in the wall, this will stop the mortar from drying out too quickly. You can then put a layer of mortar at the bottom of the hole and put mortar on the new brick, its top and two ends. 

Slide the brick into the hole and press firmly to ensure it’s aligned with the other bricks in your wall. You may have to add extra mortar to ensure all the gaps are filled. 

Finishing

You can get the right finish with the handle of your trowel, matching what is already on your wall. Then, simply spray the area with water two or three times a day to stop the mortar from drying too quickly. 

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