Winter poses significant risks to your brickwork. Want to learn how to protect your brickwork from winter damage? 

In this article, we will provide clear, actionable steps to shield your bricks from the damaging effects of cold weather. Expect tips on inspections, repairs, drainage, sealants, and more.

Key Takeaways

What Are the Effects of Winter on Brickwork?

Winter arrives with a unique set of challenges for brickwork. The combination of freezing temperatures and moisture can lead to severe brickwork damage. The cold temperature can cause any trapped moisture within the brick and mortar to freeze and expand.

The repetition of this freeze-thaw cycle over time causes the masonry to crack and spoil. The constant expansion and contraction can create new cracks and widen existing ones. These effects compromise the integrity of the brick structure, especially during temperature fluctuations.

Moisture infiltration is another significant issue during winter. Water can seep into the smallest cracks and pores of the brick and mortar, leading to deterioration when it freezes and expands. This process, known as frost damage, can result in spalling, where the surface of the brick flakes off, and further brickwork damage. If not addressed, these issues can escalate, leading to more extensive and costly repairs down the line.

Protecting brickwork from these damaging effects is essential. Understanding winter weather’s impact on your bricks allows you to take proactive steps to mitigate risks. 

Understand the Effects of Winter on Brickwork

7 Ways to Protect Your Brickwork From Winter Damage

1. Inspect and Repair Damaged Bricks and Mortar Joints Before Winter

Inspect your brickwork for any signs of damage before the winter chill sets in. Check for:

If left unattended, these issues can worsen in winter, causing significant damage and costly repairs. A thorough inspection helps identify and address problems early, ensuring your brickwork can withstand the cold weather.

To maintain the structural integrity of your brick walls and ensure effective repairs to exterior walls:

Ignoring these issues can lead to further deterioration and potential health risks due to mold growth that can occur during the damp winter months, as some individuals may be more susceptible to these effects.

For significant damage or complex repairs, consult a masonry professional. They can assess the damage and provide expert solutions to restore your brickwork.

2. Ensure Proper Drainage Around Your Property

Proper drainage is crucial for protecting your brickwork from winter damage. Effective systems prevent water from pooling around your property, which can initiate freeze-thaw cycles and cause masonry damage. Ensuring good grading and a functioning drainage system helps lower hydrostatic pressure, protecting the masonry from water infiltration.

Regular inspections of your drainage system help catch issues early and prevent significant water-related damage. Look for signs of excess moisture in your brickwork, such as visible wet patches, musty smells, and peeling paint. Using a moisture meter to check for dampness is advisable, especially if readings persist above 16%, as brick walls can typically withstand moisture levels of 13% to 16%.

Clogged gutters can cause overflow, leading to soil erosion around the foundation and potentially compromising the stability of your landscaping. Installing weep holes in your masonry allows trapped moisture to escape, reducing the risk of water buildup and subsequent damage.

3. Clean Your Brick Surfaces Thoroughly

Thoroughly cleaning your brick surfaces prepares your brickwork for winter. Start by sweeping the surface to remove dust, debris, and plant material that can trap moisture and accelerate deterioration. Wash the bricks with a gentle detergent and soapy water to help remove dirt and organic materials, ensuring a clean surface for further treatment.

This cleaning process is crucial for the adhesion and effectiveness of any sealing products you plan to apply. Removing old paint, moss, and efflorescence ensures the sealant can penetrate the brick surfaces and provide optimal protection against moisture and freeze-thaw damage.

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your brickwork prevent long-term issues and keep your bricks looking their best.

Clean Your Brick Surfaces Thoroughly

4. Apply a High-Quality Masonry Sealant

A high-quality masonry sealant is one of the best ways to protect your brickwork from winter damage. Before sealing, follow these steps:

Once the surfaces are clean and dry, follow these steps to apply a hydrophobic sealant to exterior bricks:

Sealing your brickwork protects against freeze-thaw damage and helps bricks resist weathering. The longevity of masonry creams varies, lasting from 10 to 25 years depending on the product and application. This investment can save you from significant repairs and maintain the aesthetic and structural integrity of your property.

5. Protect Exposed Brickwork with Covers

Protecting exposed brickwork with covers shields your masonry from snow and ice during freezing temperatures. Effective materials and steps include:

Covering your brickwork reduces the risk of frost and moisture damage, which can lead to costly repairs. This simple step helps maintain the structural integrity and appearance of your bricks throughout winter.

6. Monitor and Address Moisture Issues Regularly

Regularly monitoring and addressing moisture issues is crucial for maintaining your brickwork’s health. Moisture infiltration can lead to internal damage that may go unnoticed until it escalates. Cold, wet conditions accelerate the deterioration of mortar joints, compromising the integrity of brick structures.

Pay close attention to signs of moisture issues, such as discolouration or visible damp patches on your brick wall. If you notice these signs, call a professional to assess and address the problem. Professional intervention is crucial for serious issues like bulging or bowing walls, often caused by excessive moisture.

Preventing moisture ingress involves ensuring no areas where water can seep up, removing soil piles, and checking for proper rainwater flow to prevent moisture. These steps minimise the risk of water ingress-related damage and protect your brickwork from harsh winter weather.

Monitor and Address Moisture Issues Regularly

When to Call Environ Restoration Services

Knowing when to call Environ Restoration Services can save you from further damage and costly repairs. If you notice small cracks or gaps in your brickwork, seek professional assessment immediately. 

At Environ Restoration Services, we offer specialised services, including heritage building restoration, brick repointing, and brick cleaning services in London. Our expertise combines traditional skills with modern technology, ensuring longevity and customer satisfaction. 

We are committed to preserving the historical significance and beauty of properties while employing modern conservation practices.

Our comprehensive approach and specialized techniques will ensure your brickwork remains in top condition. Contact us today to book a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to prepare brickwork for winter?

It’s essential to prepare your brickwork for winter to avoid damage from freezing temperatures and moisture, which can cause cracking and structural problems. Taking preventive measures now can save you from costly repairs later.

How can I identify damaged bricks and mortar joints?

To identify damaged bricks and mortar joints, inspect for visible cracks, crumbling mortar, and spalling on the brick surfaces. Early detection through regular inspections is crucial to facilitate timely repairs and prevent further damage.

What materials should I use to cover exposed brickwork during winter?

To effectively cover exposed brickwork during winter, use hessian blankets and polythene sheets for insulation and waterproofing, ensuring they are securely fastened against harsh weather conditions. This will help safeguard the brickwork from wind and snow damage.

How often should I maintain my gutters and downspouts?

You should maintain your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year, ideally before and during winter, to prevent debris buildup and ensure proper water flow. This will help protect your property from moisture damage and foundation issues.

When should I call a professional for brickwork repairs?

You should call a professional for brickwork repairs if you observe significant cracks, bulging walls, or deteriorating mortar, as these issues require expert assessment to ensure safety and longevity.

Conclusion

Preparing your brickwork for winter involves understanding the damaging effects of cold weather, inspecting and repairing any damage, ensuring proper drainage, cleaning surfaces thoroughly, applying high-quality sealants, and covering exposed brickwork. 

Regular maintenance of gutters and downspouts and monitoring of moisture issues are also essential steps to protecting bricks.

Taking these proactive measures can prevent significant damage and costly repairs, maintaining the integrity and beauty of your brick walls. Don’t wait until the winter damage is done; start your preparations now to ensure a safe and sound brickwork structure.