Masonry is a durable material choice that offers both beauty and longevity to commercial structures. It must be regularly inspected and maintained to prevent deterioration and water intrusion. Regular inspections should be done by building maintenance personnel or masonry and damp-proofing specialists. A visual evaluation of the state of the masonry wall and its surroundings should be part of these inspections.
Sealing
The goal of masonry waterproofing is to keep water outside and protect your home from moisture penetration that can cause expensive damage to the building. Whether your building is old or new, a damp problem can cause hairline cracks in the mortar joints, mold growth, and even structural damage. Waterproofing stops these problems before they start by sealing up masonry walls. Many products will seal a brick, stone, or masonry surface. They are usually paint-like materials that form a waterproof barrier on the masonry. Some of these products will deteriorate or blister over time and may need to be reapplied. Some products penetrate the pores of the masonry and bond with it, creating an impenetrable moisture barrier. Others are also safe for the environment and can be used on bare concrete surfaces, including foundations, basements, retaining walls, sandstone patios, and fish ponds.
Waterproofing
Masonry wall waterproofing is a vital part of long-term building maintenance. It prevents water penetration and stops moisture from damaging brickwork, mortar, masonry walls, and internal finishes. Waterproofing agents can be applied to brick, stone, and masonry surfaces as paints, creams, and spray treatments. Precise treatments (films) produce a water-resistant surface, while penetrant repellents penetrate deep into the face of the masonry, lining the pores. They reduce efflorescence and may offer good resistance to alkalis. Chemical damp proof courses (DPC) can be injected into concrete and sand-based masonry products for a permanent solution. These stop rising and penetrating damp while allowing for the repair of cracks in masonry. Various precise treatments can be used, including silicone resins and silanes, which change the contact angle between water and the pores in the face of the masonry and, therefore, repel the water. These also reduce the occurrence of efflorescence and can be applied to air-dried surfaces.
Staining
Despite being one of the most resilient building materials, masonry is still susceptible to deterioration. It must be protected from water and moisture infiltration with a waterproof coating that prevents damage to the bricks and stones. Regular inspections should be conducted to look for cracks, bulging areas, deteriorating mortar, efflorescence (white powdery deposits), and signs of water infiltration. Catching problems early on will reduce the need for structural repairs.
Control joints should be inspected to ensure that the backer rods and sealant are not damaged or have not become debonded from the masonry unit. If a joint is found to be leaking, it should be repaired immediately. Proper waterproofing and regular maintenance will ensure your commercial structure lasts for years. Reach out to us today to learn more about how masonry can fit into your plans and how we can help protect your investment.
Maintenance
Water seeps into brick or stone structures and can cause hairline cracks, deteriorating mortar, and mold growth. It can also damage insulation materials, resulting in increased energy costs. While masonry is a durable material, it does require regular maintenance to prolong its lifespan. Waterproofing can help prevent costly structural repairs and extend the life of a commercial building. Keeping records of previous coatings and waterproofing is essential to reapply the appropriate materials at the right time. Concrete masonry units and mortar may contain integral water repellents that can be retained through routine cleaning and reapplication.
Regular masonry inspections can help detect early signs of wear and tear. It can include looking for cracks, repointing mortar joints, and signs of water infiltration. Identifying these issues as soon as possible can significantly extend the lifespan of a masonry structure and reduce long-term maintenance costs. For example, catching bulging areas or sagging walls and chimneys early can avoid the need for expensive replacements.
