Many people use brick screen walls to make their outdoor living spaces more comfortable. In addition to making your yard more private, screen walls block certain angles of the sun to reduce heat and block gusts of wind to make the backyard a more pleasant place to entertain. Masonry walls add style and privacy to your yard, but they do require some maintenance to stay in good condition. Because masonry repair can be a complicated project, it is best to call a professional instead of attempting to tackle the project yourself. If you notice any of these signs that your brick screen wall is in need of repair, it is time to call the Brick Experts for help.
How Do You Know if a Brick Wall Is Failing?
As with any type of structure, brick or stone walls settle over time. This process doesn’t always affect the mortar joints, but it is time for repairs when you begin to see mortar deterioration. If bricks don’t have sufficient mortar between them, they rub together and warp, which could cause the entire structure to become unstable. Routine inspections of your screen wall can help you spot this problem before it becomes a major issue. You should also look for the following signs that your screen wall needs to be repaired.
- Cracked Bricks: Bricks naturally crack over time, so this isn’t always a cause for major concern. However, extensive cracking could cause the wall structure to collapse.
- Damage Inside the Home: If your masonry wall is used strictly as a screen for your backyard, you may not notice problems inside your home when the structure is damaged. However, if the brick exterior is connected to an interior wall, you may start to see signs such as drafts, moisture, and small cracks in the mortar. Make sure to check your crawlspace for foundation movement on a regular basis.
- Bowed Bricks: As brick structures settle, they often cause bricks to become compacted. One compacted brick is not usually a cause for alarm. However, if you see several compacted bricks in your wall, it could indicate that the brick or stone masonry structure is unstable and needs to be repaired.
When Should You Be Concerned About Cracks in a Screen Wall?
While bricks crack over time, it is important to be aware of the cracking so that you know when it is time to call in a professional. Some small cracks in brick can be catastrophic, while some large cracks may not pose a threat to the structure and integrity of your wall, so it is important to know when a crack is dangerous. In general, if a crack has an angle of less than 30 degrees, it is not considered dangerous and probably doesn’t need repairs. If the crack is at an angle of more than 30 degrees, it could crumble and leave the entire wall unstable. This is the general rule of thumb, but it is always a good idea to call a professional if you notice small cracks in multiple bricks.
How Long Does a Brick Screen Wall Last?
The expected lifetime of a brick screen wall varies depending upon a number of factors. If the wall is well-maintained, it could last up to 20 years before it needs repairs. However, there are several things that could cause brick structures to deteriorate prematurely. If thick vegetation grows on the wall, it could damage the structure or cause the bricks to become compacted. Similarly, excessive moisture can cause bricks to bulge and expand, which could compromise the integrity of the wall. If you notice either of these issues, it may be time to repair your wall, even if it has only been a few years since it was built.
How Much Do Brick Screen Wall Repairs Cost?
There are many factors that determine the cost of screen wall repairs. If the masonry structure only needs cosmetic repairs such as replacing missing mortar, the price may not be significant. Extensive repairs such as replacing cracked bricks, however, could be costly. If you want an accurate estimate of how much it will cost to get your screen wall back to its original condition, it is best to contact the company you want to complete the project so that you can schedule an appointment for an estimate.
Screen Wall Repair in Dallas Fort Worth
There are several reasons brick walls need repairs. Whether the damage was caused by incorrect repairs, weather conditions, vegetation growth, or lack of proper maintenance, the Brick Expects can repair your masonry structure quickly and efficiently. We are experienced with a wide variety of masonry problems and have the tools and knowledge necessary to repair the structure of your wall and prevent collapse. Contact us today for a free estimate on repairing your masonry structures.
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