Understanding The Causes Of Brick Discoloration

Discoloration in bricks can range from simple aesthetic blemishes to serious structural damage. Knowing the looks and different causes of brick discoloration can put you in the right step towards repairing your brick structure.

Dark Black or Green Stains

These types of stains are caused from wet climates and moisture. The lighter green stains are typically moss, lichen or algae, while the darker spots tend to be mold. These stains can sometimes be removed with simple chemical cleaners, but it is recommended to call out a professional as mold can be damaging to your health when disturbed. 

Sun Damages

One of the most common discoloring in brick is caused by the sun. This is not so much of a structural problem to be concerned with, as much as it is an aesthetic issue. Bricks start to dull in color, turning a yellowish-orange when affected by the sun. An experienced masonry contractor can easily restore the color in your brickwork.

Salt and Lime

A powdery white color on your bricks is the result of a reaction called efflorescence. Efflorescence happens when your brick has been exposed to salt and water. This can occur from rain water or even a sprinkler hitting the wall.

Although less common, lime can also cause these types of discolorations. Lime run can be caused from dissolving calcium carbonate in the mortar, or from water seeping into small holes or cracks in your bricks. The efflorescence caused from the lime run is not damaging, but the underlying issue with how it was caused should be inspected by a masonry expert to prevent any future costly damages to the structure of your brick.

Fortunately, efflorescence is not harmful to your brick and can be simply removed!

Red or Orange Stains

One of the most concerning colors you can spot on your brick is a red or orange stain. This can be caused by rust or corrosion and must be inspected immediately as the structural integrity of your brick wall, fireplace, or chimney can be at risk. 

Acid, which is commonly used in brick manufacturing, can come in contact with manganese when exposed to water. This common occurrence will cause brown or red stains on your brick.

Have A Professional Masonry Technician Repair Your Stained Brick Structure

Although some brick stains can be harmless, others can be the cause of larger underlying problems. An experienced brick contractor can properly inspect your brick wall, chimney, or fireplace to determine the cause and restore your brick back to its original beauty. If you are unsure about the damage of your brickwork in the Beverly, Oak Lawn, Riverside, or other surrounding Chicagoland areas, give us a call today! Kerry Tuckpointing offers free estimates for all brick repair or restoration projects!