bRICK FOUNDATION rEPAIRS

 Brick are typically used in foundations above grade. Foundations have stone bases below grade usually four ft. then three ft of free standing brick foundations. Early foundations used lime mortar and hard or soft bricks. Water struck hard bricks were available in early  construction but were expensive so builders would use soft clay backer bricks. 

 Exterior bricks will often need repair with years of New England weather. Lime mortar joints can become washed out and loose their bond. Ground water and grade changes are a common cause of brick damage. The foundation base and free standing bricks meet at ground level and result in water ponding and saturating the foundation transition areas causing shifting and leaking. Water freezing and thawing can cause brick spalling or crumbling bricks.

Areas of brick that have become below exterior grade can become damaged over time from constant saturation. This results in crumbling, spalling and structural concerns. Poor air circulation and lime coating failure can lead to damaged bricks over time. Brick foundations have two courses exterior and interior with air spacing vapor barrier between the the two courses. The foundation require both coarse intact and secure to stabilize sill and floor joist.

Exterior foundations have veneer bricks that are integral to the home or buildings structure. These bricks can pull away from building, sink or crack.

At Thompson Crowley Masonry we can fix, repair or replace all aspects of brick work. From one brick to complete sections. Spalling brick repairs and brick replacement available today.