The Importance of Masonry Maintenance and Waterproofing

Masonry structures are built for permanence and durability, with many performing for centuries. But even the most structurally sound masonry structures require regular maintenance and repairs.

Look for bulges and sagging areas, hairline cracks in brick walls, efflorescence, or mortar deterioration. Catching these signs early is critical for preserving and protecting your brick or concrete masonry investment.

Moisture Penetration

The most common issue affecting masonry walls is moisture penetration. This can be due to intrusion from outside or condensation from within a building structure. Structural dampness can result in ineffective insulation, freeze-thaw damage, indoor mold growth, and structural deterioration.

Masonry walls are highly porous and prone to water ingress through cracks and cavities. Wind-driven rain can exacerbate moisture penetration, which impacts the hygrothermal performance of exposed masonry walls.

All brick and masonry are naturally susceptible to penetrating dampness. This occurs when moisture reaches the core of a brick and erodes the surface, exposing soluble salts. These salts then leach through capillaries on the wall surface, leaving a white and powdery residue known as efflorescence.

Regular home maintenance can help prevent penetrating dampness. Drainage issues must be addressed, including checking for leaking plumbing and central heating systems. Plants in and around buildings, such as trees, shrubs, and ivy, can also protect walls from driving rain and reduce temperature fluctuations.

Structural Deterioration

Masonry is a durable material that can last for a long time with the proper care. Inspecting it regularly for damage and signs of wear and tear is essential. Depending on the condition of a building and its location, different things may cause masonry to deteriorate over time.

Mortar degradation is a common problem for masonry. Mortar is designed to distribute a building’s weight evenly between the bricks and relieve stresses caused by movement or settling. It cannot do this when the cannon is softer or weaker than the bricks. Over time, this leads to a concentration of stresses that can break the edges of bricks or cause mortar spalling.

Other factors leading to deterioration include using paints, water repellents, and masonry waterproofing products. These should be inspected and replaced as needed. In addition, ivy and other plants in, around, and on buildings can be problematic. These should be carefully inspected for damage to mortar joints and the structural integrity of the walls.

Mold and Mildew Growth

Masonry is durable, but its permeability allows moisture to enter the structure. In turn, the humidity causes structural damage and creates other problems. Mold and mildew growth are some of these issues.

Molds that cause mildew thrive where damp, dark, and poorly lighted conditions are present. In homes, they often develop in clothing closets, basement recreation rooms, and draperies, forming a thin, blackish, or white growth that produces a musty odor and discolors fabrics, wood, leather, and paper. It is best to store all clothes and textiles, including linen and silk, with a mildew inhibitor.

Waterproofing masonry decreases penetrating dampness and helps prevent structural damage, but it is essential to inspect buildings to determine the condition of masonry walls periodically. This inspection should include a visual assessment of the building, mainly where lintels, control joints, and weep holes are located. These areas should be inspected to ensure they are not caulked closed, accelerating unprotected steel corrosion and leading to the brick veneer’s spalling.

Safety Issues

Masonry construction is one of the most dangerous types of jobs. Masons are at risk for injury from falling, ladders, scaffolding, open-sided floors, and more. It’s essential to have regular inspections conducted by a masonry specialist or building maintenance personnel to ensure the safety of your crew members.

During these inspections, look for masonry damage like brick spalling, holes, cracks, and pitting. These are signs that the mortar is deteriorating and needs to be tuckpointed or repointed. Mortar performs a critical function, evenly distributing the building’s weight across the brick. If it begins to deteriorate, the brick will not function properly and can lead to structural failure.

During these inspections, check that control joints are adequately sealed to resist moisture penetration. If sealants are torn or debonded, they should be replaced. Also, weep holes and roof drains must be regularly cleaned to avoid clogs. Finally, consider implementing a water-repellent coating to prevent the growth of algae.