While bricks do absorb water, it is virtually impossible for wind-driven rain to be forced completely through a brick body. Wall systems of brick masonry units and mortar joints can — and sometimes do — allow water penetration. This normally occurs at the mortar-to-unit interface, not through the brick itself. Invariably, water penetration is the result of water passage through holes in mortar joints, unfilled joints, or separations due to insufficient bond between the mortar and brick units.
Openings in the mortar joints are a common source of water penetration. To repair masonry elevation it will involve repointing to restore the integrity of the mortar joints. This repair service often includes: removing all defective mortar and re-pointing with new mortar. Water and frost damage result from openings in the mortar joints.
Mortar Joint Repair
Our professional experts can help you understand and determine if the extent of cracking walls can be prevented. Often, the repointing of small cracks at an early stage can prevent further deterioration. Untreated and open cavities can lead to deteriorated mortar which will eventually fall off. A qualified mason will consider testing the existing mortar to determine the original constituents and proportions for repointing. We use prehydrated type N, O or K mortar, followed by the installation of repointing mortar in multiple ¼-in. lifts; tooling each when “thumbprint hard”. When selecting repointing mortar to match the appearance of existing mortar, we at General Masonry Construction often use mock-ups or sample panels.
