What Causes Mortar to Deteriorate?

Erosion is not a brick structure's friend. In Springtime we have dry winds and light rains, followed by Summer with frequent rain and extreme heat. The dampness combined with the heat causes the expansion of brick and the surrounding mortar. Whereas, when Wintertime rolls around, we have very-cold temperatures, and in some Australian locales - freezing temperatures. The cold tends to cause contraction and shrinkage of bricks and mortar - ever so slightly.

Frozen droplets of water between joints actually expand and chip small bits of mortar away (ice takes up more space than water - don't freeze your beers!). This is known as spalling of the mortar.

These expansions and contractions due to weather culminate to show signs of weathering in your structure's mortar over the years and will present as cracked, crumbling or chipped-away sections. If there are sections that have been exposed to prolonged dampness, the mortar may appear discoloured too.

Let us not forget, that rain and wind also carry away small grains of mortar from your structures over the years. Combine these effects with land movement, corrosion from salt in ocean air and its effects on corroding lintels, arch bars and wall ties - it is evident why, although strong and hard wearing, brick structures can not last forever without a little help from masonry experts who are experts in brick repairs and repointing, Sydney.

1) Water entering the structure

Unfortunately, with deteriorating mortar, comes a reduction in the structure's ability to repel water. Small cracks and holes over time allow the passage of water into and around walls which can collect and sit.

If unable to drain away or dry, this can lead to excessive moisture in the building and can develop mould. This then becomes a health risk as mould. spores are highly mobile and harmful when inhaled over prolonged periods of time.

2) Deterioration in structure

The deteriorating mortar, when unable to sustain the load of the bricks above it, begins to crack and crumble. The cracking can lead to pieces of brickwork falling off or requiring removal during remediation work. Some sections may drop out entirely if their support has completely failed - especially around failing lintels.

3) Uneven Wear and Tear

Masonry joints don’t wear evenly. Different parts of a façade are more exposed to the elements, and those with more exposure, typically see water damage setting in sooner - which can lead to the masonry's failure over time. Rest, there is a fix!

We recommend repointing  mortar as it recedes, and advise homeowners to have a structural evaluation of their brick or veneer homes around every ten or fifteen years. This way, the building owner can be aware of any structural issues with their property and can take care in maintaining the integrity of all masonry over time!

Our experience in the field of masonry restoration services has allowed us to specialise over time. We provide highly skilled tuckpointing services in Sydney,  Repointing,  Wall Tie and Lintel and Arch bar replacement  for retail locations as well as homes and historic building rehabilitation! Our passion is with you every step of this process so we can help to ensure the longevity and beauty of your building. Indoor or outdoor spaces alike.

If you have noticed your home or property showing signs of mortar degradation, it’s recommended you get on top of the problem early. Give Keystone Pointing a call today and book in a time for a free quote where we can assess necessary repair work on site.