Anyone with a brick home understands the benefits that come with it. A home made of brick tends to have a higher property value, they look great, and they can outlast other construction types when properly maintained. With that said, neglected brickworks in Chicago can have major issues. While some problems are more structural in nature, where others are aesthetic, both should be addressed quickly to avoid serious damage.
Spalling Brickwork in Chicago
At first, you may notice bricks that appear to be peeling off or some that are no longer flat with the rest of the bricks around it. This “popping off” is a sign of deterioration, although it may only appear cosmetic. It looks similar to how sunburnt skin peels and it is called spalling. This spalling makes it seem like the brick face has fallen away, which is why it is commonly referred to as “popping off.”
The Cause of Spalling Brickworks in Chicago
There are several reasons why you may have deteriorating masonry in Chicago like spalling. These might include increased levels of moisture levels on the brick, water penetration, low-quality bricks, poor tuckpointing. Chicago homeowners often find spalling as a result of too much moisture and water leaks.
Bricks are porous so they are susceptible to water. When moisture is absorbed into the brickworks in Chicago, our cold winters will freeze the water in the bricks, making them expand. During a thaw, the ice contracts back into liquid form. Through many cycles like this, your brickworks in Chicago are put through tremendous pressure, leading to deterioration like spalling.
Spalling is simply a sign of a deeper problem with your masonry in Chicago. As your bricks are holding too much water, replacing those bricks will only temporarily address the issue, as there is some other underlying concern.
Fixing Spalling with Tuckpointing Contractors in Chicago
In dealing with any brick issues, getting the right professionals to take care of them is the key. Remaining proactive can certainly help to avoid costly repairs, can keep that high property value on your home, and can leave you with outstanding curb appeal. Instead of procrastinating until the damage is out of control, leading to a full teardown and rebuild, you need expert tuckpointing in Chicago as soon as the problem is apparent.
That’s what makes regularly scheduled brick inspections so valuable. Take the time to carefully search your home’s exterior for any signs of deterioration, taking note of any popping off, or spalling, that you see.
If you’re still uncertain about what to look for, get professional masonry contractors in Chicago to help with an inspection at least annually. Since Chicago can have extreme weather conditions, you may consider having an inspection twice a year. This can end up saving you thousands of dollars on masonry restoration in Chicago and a great deal of stress. Need professional help? Contact us and we will answer all your questions and repair your wall or chimney.