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Hand with orange glove laying a brick on mortar

Brick chimney caps and spark arrestors: sizing, attachment, and draft considerations

Introduction Brick chimney caps and spark arrestors are protective covers on top of a masonry chimney that help contain embers, reduce water intrusion, and influence draft, sizing, and attachment should fit the chimney opening and flue arrangement. Choose from material options that resist heat and weather, and plan for proper alignment and secure attachment to […]

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Worker painting a wall with roller wearing yellow helmet

Brick staining vs painting: durability, appearance, and moisture risks

Introduction Brick staining and painting are two approaches to changing brick color and protection, with staining penetrating the surface and painting applying an opaque coating. Staining preserves the brick texture and natural variation, while painting hides texture and creates a solid color finish. Both options are DIY-friendly in concept, but they require different surface prep

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close-up of weathered rough red brick wall texture

Brick step settlement: drainage fixes and reset strategies that hold

Introduction Brick step settlement occurs when the treads move out of level due to soil drainage and footing issues. Identifying stair-step cracks and understanding basic causes helps you decide if a DIY reset is feasible. This guide sticks to plain language and practical steps you can assess on the job. Drainage fixes and reset strategies

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Brick walkway weeds: jointing options and maintenance that doesn’t erode sand

Introduction Brick walkway weeds occur when the joints between bricks are open enough for weed seeds to take root. This article looks at options to fill those joints and keep the sand in place without eroding. It’s written as a practical, hands-on guide you can use on a DIY project. Jointing sand options range from

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Partially plastered wall showing exposed red bricks

Flashing at brick shelf angles and ledges: what drip edges should look like

Introduction Drip Edges & Flashing for Brick Shelves Drip edges and flashing safeguard brick shelf angles and ledges by channeling water away from walls. Familiarize yourself with proper flashing techniques and consult manufacturer guidelines and local regulations to ensure suitable materials and methods. Flashing options for brick ledges encompass flexible membranes and metal strips, designed

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Old mixing bucket with mortar mixer tool inside

Too-hard brick mortar damage: signs, causes, and how to correct future repairs

Introduction Too-hard brick mortar damage is damage that results when the mortar in a wall has become excessively hard and brittle, leading to cracks and bond failure. Signs include visible cracks between bricks, loose or hollow-sounding joints, and bricks that push or tilt out of place. It often stems from over-tamped or overly aggressive mixes,

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close-up of weathered red brick wall with mortar joints

Raking out brick joints safely: depth targets and avoiding chipped arrises

Introduction Raking out brick joints safely means removing deteriorated mortar from between bricks to a controlled depth while protecting the surrounding masonry. This hands-on task requires the right tools and steady technique to avoid damaging arrises. A sensible approach focuses on safe depth targets and careful removal to prevent chipping. Choose appropriate tools designed for

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Choosing brick joint profiles: concave, flush, struck—how each sheds water

Introduction Brick joint profiles are the shapes formed where bricks meet mortar, influencing water shedding from a wall. Understand how each profile behaves in wet conditions to make an informed choice based on your climate and maintenance routine. Concave joints: Shed water along the mortar surface. Flush joints: Sit flat, providing a smooth finish but

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Winter salt and brick efflorescence: how de-icing habits show up on your walls

Introduction Winter salt use and brick efflorescence are the mineral deposits and moisture issues that appear on brick walls due to de-icing salts moving through the masonry. This article explains how everyday snow and ice removal can affect joints and surface finishes. You’ll learn how to spot the signs and why maintaining joints matters. Watch

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Worker laying red bricks with mortar on wall

Triage for spalling brick: temporary stabilisation vs when to call a mason

Introduction Triage for spalling brick means quickly assessing danger and choosing between temporary stabilization and arranging professional help. Spalled brick signs include chipped or flaking surfaces, exposed core, and cracking mortar. In this article, we outline practical steps you can take to stabilize temporarily while you plan the next move. If instability is evident or

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