Brick or Block Replacement 101:

Table of Contents

1. How do I know if my brick/block need to be replaced?
2. Why is brick/block replacement important?
3. What happens if I require replacement brick in multiple areas?
4. How are old or bad bricks removed?
5. What happens after the brick are removed?
6. What happens if my brick style is no longer being manufactured?

How do I know if my brick/block need to be replaced ?

In the case of brick replacement, certain brick/ block has been damaged, while the surrounding brick/block/stone is good enough shape to keep. It is only the specific brick/block that are structurally unsound that need to be replaced. Brick/block degeneration is different for every structure, as brick/block age in many different ways. Damage occurs based on several different factors (weather/ moisture/structural integrity) Common signs of damage include:

j Cracks - Cracking can occur along the surface of the brick only, or it can run the entire thickness of the brick.
k Spalding - This is where the front facing begins to break away from the rest of the brick.

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Why is brick/block replacement important ?

As the brick/block degenerate, they leave holes between the brick and mortar. These holes have several negative impacts. The first concern if structural integrity. Damaged brick can effect how structural weight is distributed, and this in turn can offset the integrity of the entire structure. Additionally, damaged brick/block/stone can allow moisture to enter. This moisture can cause further issues such as cracks and deterioration of the surrounding mortar joints. From a practical view point, sealing the holes will help decrease drafts within the structure. This will help with the regulation of internal temperature. Brick/block/stone replacement can significantly improve energy efficiency, especially in extreme hot/cold temperatures. An additional concern is bugs and other such pests. The holes between the brick/block/stone and the mortar joints allow for a perfect entrance/exit. Replacement can help with overall pet control.

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What happens if I require replacement brick in multiple areas?

It is important in replacement that not too many brick/block/stone are removed at one time, as the huge structure may collapse. Should multiple sections of brick/block/stone require replacement, the mason will first mark off the individual sections, and then determine which order they should be removed. Once one section is removed, it is then re-laid with new brick/block/stone. This ensures that the structure maintains integrity at all times during the rebuild.

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How are old or bad bricks removed?

In most cases, a mason will use a hammer an chisel to remove the deteriorated brick/block /stone. Though a fairly time consuming method, it is the most accurate, and preferred method for removal of individual or small sections of brick/block/stone. Should a large section of brick/block/stone require removal, then other masonry tools may be used. The three most common devices are: masonry grinder, masonry saw or what has be dubbed a "ZawZaw" (looks like a very small power hedge trimmer) These devices are able to cut through the mortar joint once a section of brick/block/stone have already been removed.

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What happens after the bricks are removed?

Once the old brick is removed, an inspection is done to ensure that the surrounding brick are structurally sound. Once this has been ensured, replacement brick are laid in using the existing pattern or design. Every care is made to ensure that the replacement brick will blend into the bricks of the existing structure. If necessary, the mason will tint the mortar to ensure that the joints also blend in with the existing structure. Replacement bricks require normally 30-60 minutes to set, and an additional 24 hours to fully cure.

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What happens if my brick style is no longer being manufactured?

Every couple of years, brick/block manufactures will stop producing certain styles of brick. When it comes time to replace brick, you may not be able to get the exact style that was initially used. One good thing is that there are multiple manufactures, meaning there is always a current available brick similar is style. Should colour be an issue, a tint can always be applied to the exterior face of the brick.

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We are a masonry company that serves; Aurora, GTA (Greater Toronto Area) , Newmarket, Mississauga, Richmond Hill, Durham and York Region.