If you ask the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, they’d say brick structures can last a hundred years or more. Brick homes aren’t just durable; they’re also beautiful to look at, eco-friendly, and very easy to maintain. Putting them all together, one can easily conclude that a house made of bricks is a good investment. If it ever needs fixing, there’s masonry repair in Tulsa.
A big misconception about brick is that it’s expensive and would blow the budget. People think that one has to be very rich to even consider using brick as the primary material for building a house. This is not true at all. One can have an all-brick home for an affordable price. It costs the same as other exterior materials that are used on a structure. Here’s how you can help brick houses last as long as they should.
- Tuckpointing is a Must
Maintenance is key to the longevity of all structures. It’s important to remember that there is a continuing battle between the structural integrity of the place and moisture. Proper upkeep can translate into added years. The masonry should be checked regularly for softened or cracked cement that may begin to crumble.
Tuckpointing is the replacement of such fractured mortar, and the search for these damaged spots in the structure is imperative. Any break in the brickwork will allow the elements, especially moisture, to compromise the durability of your home’s exterior. If one is consistent about this, one will avoid costly repairs to the house.
- Cleaning out Moss, Mold, and Mildew
Some growths should be prevented from developing on the masonry. Mildew, mold, and moss grow on that part of the house where the sun doesn’t shine. They can harm the bricks they’ve grown on and cause cracks. More than that, these black and green stains can remain permanently on the outside wall even when cleaned. It’s best to scrub them off when they begin to show. Avoid using a wire brush. It leaves scratches.
- Don’t Paint on Bricks
There are many schools of thought on this. Some say it’s okay, others not. The prevalent expert opinion on the matter is that it’s best to allow bricks to display their natural color. It also lets them breathe and releases moisture in them. Besides, a paint job on bricks won’t last anyway. It can start to peel off in as little as three years.
If you must do it because you bought a house with its brick wall already painted and it needs a makeover, use a paint that’s permeable and is suggested for bricks. In such a case, you can get recommendations from the experts. Brick contractors in Tulsa, OK, are also available for consultation.
- Brick Staining for Color
The best process for adding color to your brick exterior wall is to stain it. You can do it with the hue of your choice. It may cost more to stain brick than to paint it, but the method is cheaper over time. A brick stain can last 10 to 15 years before work on it is done again, compared to a paint job that’s only good for seven years tops. When your outer wall has started to look tired and needs to be revived with a new color, use brick stain.
Other Fast Facts
If you want to extend the lifespan of your brick home, it’s best to be aware of two things:
- The permanence of your residence will depend on the brick you use.
- Regular inspections and upkeep are essential to the longevity of brick houses.
There’s no need for anyone to study this and apply whatever has been learned to the care of your home. You can leave them to the experts in masonry repair in Tulsa.
The last of the 3 Little Pigs didn’t have the benefit of consulting with a brick contractor to save itself. You, on the other hand, can be assured of quality masonry work and repairs by reaching out to Brick 1 Masonry. So give us a call at 918-698-3573. Better yet, you may scroll through our website to learn more about us and our services.
