The Effects of the Freeze-Thaw Cycle on Your Masonry

The fluctuating temperatures in areas like Oak Lawn and areas surrounding Chicago, can take a toll on your brick. While these materials are made to withstand harsh weather conditions, the integrity of the structure can begin to deteriorate over time. For homeowners of masonry houses, it is important to understand how the freeze-thaw cycle affects your brick. 

What is the Freeze-Thaw Cycle? 

In masonry, the freeze-thaw cycle refers to water seeping into the porous surface of brick. With lowering temperatures, the water freezes, causing it to expand. This puts pressure on the brick. As temperatures rise again, the ice melts and contracts. This repeated cycle of freezing and thawing can cause damage to your brickwork over time. 

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Effects of the Freeze-Thaw Cycle on Brick

There are a few types of damage that can occur due to the freeze-thaw cycle. 

1. Cracking and Spalling occurs when water seeps into the pores of masonry materials. The expansion that occurs during freezing temperatures causes the material to be forced apart. Over time, this leads to larger cracks in brick and the outer layer of the material may begin to chip off.
2. Mortar binds bricks together. This portion of the masonry is weakened by the freeze-thaw cycle, causing crumbling. This breakdown of mortar can lead to gaps between bricks.
3. After many cracks and gaps have formed, water may begin to infiltrate the brick, leading to potential damage in insulation, interior walls, and foundations. 

Overall, the freeze-thaw cycle weakens the integrity of your masonry by way of expansion and contraction of the water. This can lead to water being able to get through the brick and into the inner workings of your home. 

The Importance of Repairing Masonry Damage

Repairing damage to your brick not only increases your curb appeal, but it also ensures the structural integrity of your building or home. Your masonry may need to be sealed. A professional tuck pointer can determine the right sealant and apply it well so that water no longer seeps through into the material. If you discover cracks or gaps in your brick structure, an experienced brick technician can help you with your masonry repair via tuckpointing, preventing any further costly damage. It is important that you get any damage taken care of as soon as possible to prevent bigger problems down the road. 

What is Tuckpointing?

Tuckpointing is a precise process of removing old, worn down mortar and replacing it with new mortar. This process can provide your home or building with a brand new look and renew its structural integrity as well. 

Need Masonry Repair in Oak Lawn, IL?

In Oak Lawn, IL, as well as areas like Beverly, Evergreen Park, and Gresham, winters can be brutally cold, which makes the freeze-thaw cycle a common problem. It is important to be proactive about the care of your brick to maintain the aesthetic and structural integrity of your home or commercial property. With Kerry Tuckpointing, our team of experienced and licensed masons can help you fix those cracks, gaps, and any other issues that you may come across with your masonry. If you notice any of the above issues with your brick, contact us today for a free quote!