Causes of Spalling Bricks

For centuries, bricks have been among the most common building materials because of their strength and longevity. But it has a silent enemy. In the 1840s British children’s classic, the Big Bad Wolf famously said, “I’ll huff, and I’ll puff, and I’ll blow your house in,” to the Three Little Pigs. Surprisingly, there’s some truth to this fable when it comes to homes and chimneys made of brick and mortar. Spalling weakens brickwork from the inside out, leaving homes and buildings vulnerable.

What is Spalling?

Spalling is the chipping, cracking, and flaking of brick surface layers. Imagine the outer layer of the brickwork slowly peeling away, revealing its coarse interior. This deterioration compromises a masonry chimney’s structural integrity and can detract from its appearance.

What Causes Brick to Spall?

While brick and mortar are durable, they are porous materials that can absorb water like sponges. Spalling is a problem in any wet climate, but brick structures are more vulnerable in areas with snowy and icy winters. When water penetrates the brick and mortar, it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts immense pressure on the brick, causing cracks to widen and the outer layer to break away—spalling.  

While the freeze-thaw cycle is a major culprit, other factors can contribute to spalling bricks. These include improper mortar, salty air, pressure cleaning, and neglect and age.

• Improper Mortar: Using the wrong type of mortar to lay the bricks can lead to uneven expansion and contraction, ultimately causing spalling.  
• Salt Attack: De-icing salts commonly used in winter or salty air from the Gulf can seep into the brickwork and accelerate the deterioration process.  
• Pressure Cleaning: Harsh detergents and high-pressure cleaning methods can damage the hardened outer shell, exposing it to water infiltration.  
• Neglect and Age: Even the best-laid bricks can succumb to time. Age and exposure to the elements naturally weaken mortar, making bricks more susceptible to spalling.

Signs of Spalling Brick

Early detection and intervention allow for timely repairs to prevent further damage and maintain the structural integrity of the chimney or building. Signs to watch for include:  

• Flaking or chipping of the brick surface  
• Loose or crumbling mortar
• Cracks in the bricks  
• Loose or missing bricks

What to Do

Understanding the causes of spalling and taking proactive measures can ensure your brick chimney or building stands strong. So, if you suspect spalling, consult a professional for repairs. Depending on the severity, solutions may include replacing damaged bricks, repointing mortar joints, applying a water-repellent coating, or addressing underlying issues like efflorescence or faulty drainage.   

How to Prevent Spalling Bricks

• Annual inspections are a vital part of maintaining the structural integrity of your chimney or building. They can help ensure that early signs of masonry damage are detected and addressed promptly.
• Make timely brick repairs: Repair damaged brick and mortar as soon as possible to mitigate the damaging effects of moisture.
• Waterproofing: After making necessary masonry repairs, it’s important to apply a waterproof sealant. This sealant acts as a protective barrier, preventing moisture from seeping into the bricks and mortar, thereby reducing the risk of spalling. 

Remember, even the Big Bad Wolf couldn’t underestimate the power of preventative maintenance!

Spalling Brick Repairs in Houston – Conroe – The Woodlands, TX

Don’t let your brick facade turn into a page from The Three Little Pigs – take action to ensure its lasting strength. Guardian Chimney Sweep is your chimney’s guardian angel in southeast Texas. Our skilled masonry experts do everything from chimney inspections and cleaning to masonry repairs and rebuilding. We guarantee our services and provide detailed written estimates for any work. Complete our online contact form to schedule a professional cleaning and inspection. You’ll see why we love our customers!