Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Spalling Bricks
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09-17-00, 02:24 PM
I am currently experiencing problems with the bricks on the back of our house. I believe the problem is called "spalling" - a condition where water gets into the brick and freezes, causing the surface to break away.
Please could you give me some advice on why this might be happening and what can be done about the problem.
Please could you give me some advice on why this might be happening and what can be done about the problem.
09-17-00, 07:08 PM
Brick is neither waterproof or vapor proof. You need to identify the source of water or vapor then cut it off. In some cases cuttiing of the source can be impractiable or impossible (wind driven rain or sleet).
Some overhead sources include roofs & valleys, gutters, downspouts. Water can wick from ground sources also. The source could be water vapor from the interior migrating through the brick. (ordinary conditions or AC/heat pump/swamp cooler/heater unit maybe?). The mortar may require repointing (look for cracks). If you cannot determine the source hire professional help. The spalled brick should be replaced anyway.
Some overhead sources include roofs & valleys, gutters, downspouts. Water can wick from ground sources also. The source could be water vapor from the interior migrating through the brick. (ordinary conditions or AC/heat pump/swamp cooler/heater unit maybe?). The mortar may require repointing (look for cracks). If you cannot determine the source hire professional help. The spalled brick should be replaced anyway.