Masonry brick walls are known for their durability and timeless beauty, but prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to damage and structural issues. From mold and mildew growth to efflorescence and cracks, moisture infiltration can compromise both the appearance and stability of your brickwork. Preventing moisture damage is essential to preserving your home’s brick exterior and ensuring it stands the test of time. Here’s how you can protect your masonry brick walls from moisture and keep them looking great.
1. Inspect and Repair Cracks and Deteriorated Mortar
Why It’s Important:
Cracks in brickwork and deteriorated mortar joints are common entry points for moisture. Once water seeps in, it can freeze, expand, and cause further cracking, leading to structural issues over time.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Regularly inspect your brick walls for cracks, gaps, or crumbling mortar. Small cracks can often be filled with masonry caulk, while larger cracks may require professional repointing. Repointing involves removing old, deteriorated mortar and replacing it with fresh mortar, creating a watertight seal that keeps moisture out.
2. Ensure Proper Drainage Around Your Home
Why It’s Important:
Pooling water near the foundation is a major cause of moisture infiltration in brick walls. Poor drainage allows water to saturate the soil around your home, putting pressure on the foundation and increasing the risk of moisture seepage.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Maintain gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the foundation. Ensure downspouts extend at least six feet away from the base of the home. If your property has poor drainage, consider installing a French drain or other drainage solution to prevent water from pooling near your brick walls.
3. Apply a Breathable Masonry Sealant
Why It’s Important:
Masonry sealants create a water-resistant barrier on the surface of the brick, reducing the risk of moisture absorption while allowing trapped water to escape. A breathable sealant is essential, as it prevents moisture from becoming trapped inside the bricks, which can lead to further damage.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Choose a high-quality, breathable masonry sealant and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a sprayer or roller to apply an even coat over the brickwork, focusing on areas exposed to heavy rain or snow. Reapply the sealant every three to five years to maintain protection.
4. Clean Your Brickwork Regularly
Why It’s Important:
Dirt, mold, and efflorescence (white powdery residue) can accumulate on brick surfaces and trap moisture, increasing the risk of water infiltration. Regular cleaning helps maintain the appearance of your brick walls and prevents moisture-related issues.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Use a soft brush or a low-pressure washer to clean the brick surface, avoiding harsh chemicals that may damage the brick. For efflorescence, a mixture of water and vinegar can help dissolve the salts and restore the brick’s appearance. Avoid cleaning in extreme cold or hot weather to prevent rapid drying that could harm the brick.
5. Avoid Using De-Icing Salts Near Brick Walls
Why It’s Important:
De-icing salts, while effective for melting snow and ice, can damage brick surfaces by causing spalling and cracking. The salts can absorb moisture and transfer it into the brick, accelerating deterioration, especially in freeze-thaw cycles.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Use alternatives like sand or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) instead of traditional rock salt for de-icing near brick surfaces. Avoid direct contact with brick walls and clean up any residue after winter to prevent long-term damage.
6. Maintain Roof Overhangs and Flashing
Why It’s Important:
Roof overhangs and flashing play a crucial role in directing rainwater away from the walls. Damaged or inadequate overhangs can lead to water running down the walls, increasing the risk of moisture infiltration.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Regularly inspect your roof overhangs and flashing, especially near brick chimneys or exterior walls, for signs of wear or damage. Repair or replace damaged flashing and ensure overhangs are sufficient to divert water away from the walls. Properly functioning flashing protects against leaks and helps prevent moisture buildup around brickwork.
7. Insulate Interior Walls and Manage Indoor Humidity
Why It’s Important:
Moisture damage to brick walls isn’t limited to exterior sources; high indoor humidity can also contribute to issues. Moisture from inside the home can migrate into brick walls, especially in poorly insulated buildings.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Insulate interior walls and manage indoor humidity by using a dehumidifier, especially in winter when condensation levels are high. Good ventilation and humidity control help keep interior brick surfaces dry and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth.
8. Avoid Planting Vegetation Too Close to Brick Walls
Why It’s Important:
Plants and shrubs that grow close to brick walls can trap moisture and block airflow, leading to moisture buildup and increased risk of damage. Additionally, roots can interfere with drainage, further exacerbating moisture issues.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Maintain a buffer of at least a few feet between vegetation and your brick walls. Trim back any plants or vines that come into contact with the brick surface, and ensure there’s sufficient airflow around the wall to allow moisture to evaporate.
9. Repair and Replace Damaged Bricks as Needed
Why It’s Important:
Damaged bricks are more susceptible to moisture infiltration and can lead to structural issues if not addressed. Replacing damaged bricks helps maintain the strength of the wall and prevents moisture from spreading to surrounding bricks.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Inspect brick walls for spalling, cracks, or chips, and replace any severely damaged bricks. A professional mason can ensure replacement bricks are installed correctly, preserving the wall’s appearance and integrity.
10. Schedule Regular Masonry Inspections
Why It’s Important:
A professional masonry inspection can identify early signs of moisture damage and potential weak points in your brick walls. Catching issues early allows for timely repairs, preventing minor problems from becoming costly repairs.
How to Prevent Moisture Damage:
Schedule annual masonry inspections to evaluate the condition of your brickwork and address any issues as they arise. Regular inspections are particularly important for older homes or properties in areas with high rainfall or extreme temperature fluctuations.
Final Thoughts
Preventing moisture damage in masonry brick walls is essential for maintaining the beauty, strength, and value of your home. By following these preventive steps - such as regular inspections, applying a sealant, and ensuring proper drainage - you can protect your brickwork from the harmful effects of moisture. Investing in preventive maintenance is a cost-effective way to preserve your brick exterior and avoid expensive repairs in the long run. If you’re concerned about moisture issues in your brick walls, consider consulting a professional mason for tailored advice and solutions.
