What can I repair and refresh the look of these exterior bricks?
by
Ari
+5
My house is over 100 years old and I want to improve the look of the dirty and deteriorating brick porch. There doesn't seem to be a problem with the mortar at least, just the old bricks themselves are flaking. I want to clean it and considered low/medium pressure cleaning but Im afraid to damage the bricks further. Does anyone have any suggestions for how to fill the chips and holes in the bricks or somehow repair the look of the brick? Or should I just masonry paint over the whole thing? Appreciated
I bet your house is amazing! Love old architecture. What I would do would be to consult with local historic preservation contractors. They would know best what can and can't be done to enhance the beauty of your home. Be sure to discuss budget to see what is feasible and worthwhile in your price range.
http://blog.rendevdc.com/what-is-brick-spalling-and-what-should-you-do-about-it
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/discussions/topic/whats-best-way-to-fill-holes-exterior-bricks
Thank you so much Cheryl those articles were helpful, that looks like exactly what happened and what I need to do, and thank you Naomie for making me feel more like I have an antique instead of an old piece of junk aha
You don't have a "piece of junk"! I think the detailing is beautiful. You're on the right path to make repairs.
Not a piece of junk. Beautiful architecture. Lasted longer than a lot of modern homes would. You may need the advise of a Mason that works with old homes on what can be done. Make sure any repairs you do are sealed with a concrete sealer. Bricks and mortar are porous and weather has a great effect on them. Rain, freeze and thaw conditions.
Use this solution to clean them along with pressure washing. https://amzn.to/37eR0hw
Hope this Helps! Jeremy - https://do-daddy.com
ONCE CLEAN , USE A MASONRY SEALER TO KEEP THE CLEAN LOOK!