5 signs your brickwork needs repair and how masonry contractors can help

Brickwork is a durable and attractive building material, especially in homes and historical areas in Markham such as Main Street (Unionville and Markham), but it's not immune to wear and tear. Over time, bricks can crack, crumble, or become discoloured, which can compromise the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your home or building. Here are the top 5 signs that your brickwork needs repair, and how masonry contractors can help restore it to its former glory.

i) Cracks in the brick.

One of the most obvious signs that your brickwork needs repair is the presence of cracks. Cracks can occur for a variety of reasons, including settling of the foundation, moisture damage, or even just normal wear and tear. If left untreated, cracks can lead to further damage and compromise the structural integrity of your building. A masonry contractor can assess the severity of the cracks and determine the best course of action, whether it's simply filling them in or replacing the damaged bricks altogether.

ii) Loose or missing bricks.

Another sign that your brickwork needs repair is the presence of loose or missing bricks. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather damage, poor installation, or even just age. Loose or missing bricks can lead to further damage and compromise the structural integrity of your building. A masonry expert can assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action, whether it's simply replacing the missing bricks or rebuilding the entire section of brickwork.

iii) Water damage or stains.

Water damage or stains on your brickwork can be a sign of a bigger problem, and is not uncommon in a climate like we see in Markham and the rest of Ontario. It could be caused by a leak in your roof or gutter system, which can lead to water seeping into your brickwork and causing damage. This can lead to mold growth and further deterioration of your brickwork. A "masonry contractor near me" in Markham can identify the source of the water damage and repair the affected area, as well as provide recommendations for preventing future water damage.

iv) Efflorescence.

Efflorescence is a white, powdery substance that appears on the surface of brickwork. It is caused by the migration of salt deposits to the surface of the brickwork, which can be a sign of water damage. When water seeps into the brickwork, it dissolves salts within the bricks and carries them to the surface. As the water evaporates, the salts are left behind, causing efflorescence. If left untreated, efflorescence can lead to further damage and deterioration of the brickwork. A masonry professional can identify the source of the water damage and repair the affected area, as well as provide recommendations for preventing future water damage and efflorescence.

v) Uneven or sagging bricks.

​If you notice that your brickwork is uneven or sagging, it could be a sign of structural damage. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as foundation issues, water damage, or poor construction. Masons can assess the extent of the damage and provide solutions to repair and reinforce the affected area. Ignoring this issue can lead to further damage and potentially dangerous situations, so it's important to address it as soon as possible.

Call Masonry Markham if you need brick restoration or brick repair services by experienced professionals.