Living on the Gulf Coast has many perks, like beautiful beaches, warm weather, and friendly communities. But the high humidity and frequent rain affect everything, including your clothes, your porch chairs, and even your brick walls. With a few simple care tips and help from the leading masonry contractor in Mobile, AL, your walls can stay strong through rain or shine.
Phone: (251) 283-5661
Email: contact@mobilemasonryal.com
6 Essential Brick Wall Maintenance Tips
1. Regular Cleaning
Dirt, mold, and mildew can build up on brick surfaces, especially in humid climates. Regular cleaning not only improves the look of your walls but also prevents long-term damage.
- Use mild detergents: A mixture of water and mild dish soap can effectively clean most surfaces.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Strong chemicals can damage the brick and mortar.
- Gentle scrubbing: Use a soft-bristle brush to remove stains without damaging the surface.
Pressure washing: If necessary, use a pressure washer on a low setting to remove stubborn grime, but be cautious to avoid damaging the mortar joints.
2. Inspect and Repair Mortar Joints
Mortar joints can deteriorate over time, which allows moisture to seep in and cause damage. Timely repairs and routine inspections are essential.
- Look for cracks or gaps: Inspect your walls periodically for signs of mortar deterioration.
- Repointing: It is the process of removing damaged mortar and replacing it with new mortar to restore the strength of the wall.
- Professional help: For extensive damage, consider hiring a professional mason to ensure proper repair.
3. Ensure Proper Drainage
Water pooling around your home’s foundation can lead to moisture problems in brick walls. Effective drainage systems are essential.
- Clean gutters and downspouts: Make sure they are completely clean and direct water away from the house.
- Check grading: The ground around your home should slope away from the foundation to prevent water accumulation.
- Install drainage solutions: Consider French drains or other systems to manage excess water.
4. Apply a Quality Sealant
Sealing your brick walls can provide an extra layer of protection against moisture.
- Choose breathable sealants: These allow moisture to escape while preventing water from entering.
- Regular application: Sealants should be reapplied every few years, depending on exposure to the elements.
- Professional application: For best results, consider hiring professionals to apply the sealant evenly and effectively.
5. Control Vegetation Near Walls
Plants and vines growing close to brick walls can trap moisture and cause damage.
- Trim regularly: Keep shrubs and trees trimmed to allow air circulation around the walls.
- Avoid climbing plants: Vines can penetrate mortar joints and hold moisture against the wall.
- Remove ivy carefully: If ivy is present, remove it gently to prevent damage to the brick and mortar.
6. Address Efflorescence Promptly
Have you seen a white, powdery substance on brick surfaces? That’s efflorescence. It forms due to salt deposits.
- Brush it off: Use a dry, stiff brush to remove the deposits.
- Check for moisture sources: Identify and fix any water intrusion issues causing the efflorescence.
- Seal the bricks: Applying a sealant can help stop it from happening again.
7. Schedule Regular Inspections
Frequent inspections can identify potential problems early, which ultimately saves time and money.
- Inspect biannually: Check your walls at least twice a year for signs of damage or wear.
- After severe weather: Inspect the walls after storms or heavy rainfall.
- Professional assessments: Consider hiring a masonry expert for a thorough evaluation.
When to Call a Professional Mason
Although some maintenance can be DIY, some problems require professional assistance:
✔ Large cracks in bricks or mortar
✔ Bulging or leaning walls (structural risk)
✔ Persistent mold or efflorescence
✔ Crumbling mortar across large sections
For expert brick repair, sealing, or maintenance in Mobile, AL, contact Mobile Masonry Contractors:
📞 Call: (251) 283-5661
📧 Email: contact@mobilemasonryal.com
Frequently Asked Question(s)
Yes, but use it on a low setting to avoid damaging the mortar joints.
Efflorescence is a white, powdery deposit of salts. Remove it with a dry, stiff brush and address any moisture issues.
Look for cracks, gaps, or crumbling mortar. If you notice these signs, it’s time for repointing.
Sealing can provide additional protection against moisture, especially in humid climates.
