The brickwork on your chimney, fireplace, or pathway is made to last for many years. However, when moisture finds its way in through small cracks, it’s only a matter of time before it falls apart and needs professional attention. Most brick and stone contractors will give you two options—repair or replace. Before you make your decision, here’s how to know what you should choose.

What Can Be Repaired?

Any significant damage to your masonry work merits prompt care from a brick and stone contractor to avoid further deterioration. Small cracks, chips, and holes in the brickwork or bricks serve as an entry point for water, which can seep through the entire structure over time. When these gaps become large enough, pests like insects and mice can begin to nest inside and weaken the whole masonry.

Pay attention to visible cracks, holes, and unevenness on surfaces. A brick and stone contractor will inspect the damage and measure its length and width. Once they determine that the issue is on the mortar and not on the bricks, they will remove the crumbling, flaking mortar and replace it with a new one. The mortar tends to wear out faster than the bricks, so it needs to be replaced more frequently.

Pitted or chipped bricks are reusable, so turn them around to hide the damaged part. A contractor can fill and seal the gaps on smaller damage. However, for serious, larger-sized cracks, they will install support beams or external piers.  

What Must Be Replaced?

Most masonry works remain beautiful and functional for many years. However, some don’t last as long for several reasons. Shoddy installation and the use of low-quality materials are two primary culprits of prematurely failing brickwork. Sometimes, there are causes beyond your control, like uneven settling or shifting of the soil and constant exposure to harsh elements. These factors weaken and compromise the integrity of the structure, necessitating a replacement.  

If the brick and stone contractor notices that the brickwork appears to be leaning, bowing, shifting, or unstable, they will recommend replacing it entirely. This often occurs when the damage on the bricks is extensive to the point that they are unable to bear the heavy load. As such, the structure is no longer safe and may collapse at any time.   

 

When you have damaged bricks anywhere in your home, count on Darryl Myers Brick to expertly execute repairs and replacements. As the trusted brick and stone contractor in Independence, KY, this master craftsman specializes in custom stone installation, brick sealing, tuckpointing, fireplace repair, and more. Call (859) 743-3850 for estimates on planned masonry work or inquire via their website today.