If you have an historic brick home, chances are it was built with matching brick steps and walkways that lead to the front door. Original brick steps need the same TLC that the main home does, even more so. But how do you know it’s time to repair your old brick steps? Check out this handy guide on the signs of brick step repair.
Wear and Tear Over the Years
Time is not always kind to brick. Over the years, your historic brick steps take a lot of abuse, from heavy foot traffic to harsh weather to accumulated dirt and debris. All of these factors can cause cracks and water damage, not to mention loose and crumbling brickwork. This is definitely a safety hazard for your family and guests, but neglect can lead to irreversible damage.
Inspecting Your Steps
There are several signs of the need for repair for your historic brick steps. Some are obvious, such as loose or crumbling bricks, but other signs are more subtle, such as small chips and cracks in the mortar. These may not seem like a big deal at first but if not addressed in a timely manner, they can lead to more severe and costly problems.
That’s because those cracks can invite water and dirt inside, making the cracks larger and creating visible gaps. At this point, your steps’ structural integrity is at risk. When inspecting your brick steps:
- Check the slope, making sure the tread is even, with no tripping hazards.
- Check if the stairs are tilted or leaning. This leads to pooling water, which can get into the mortar and cause even more damage.
- Check for moisture intrusion, especially after periods of high humidity or heavy rainfall.
- Look for water stains, mold, or mildew on the bricks’ surface.
- Inspect all surrounding areas, such as doors, windows, and rooflines.
When it the Ideal Time to Repair Your Brick Steps?
The answer is: at the first sign of trouble. You would be amazed how fast old brickwork can deteriorate, especially as the result of traffic or harsh weather. Regular inspections and timely repairs by a brick step specialist in Michigan are the best way to keep your historic brick steps looking good and functioning well.
If you’re noticing signs of wear now in summer, it’s important to get those concerns addressed before winter hits, as the free-thaw cycle can accelerate deterioration. Ice expands between the joints, loosening and cracking the brick itself.
Don’t attempt a DIY brick step repair. Partner with a brick repair specialize with many years of experience to handle this job with confidence.
It’s important to note that even if the bricks are damaged, your masonry contractor in Michigan may be able to save the original brick, which is a good thing when it comes to retaining the value of your historic home.
Well-maintained, beautiful brick steps not only ensure top-notch curb appeal and pride of ownership, they also boost the safety of all who use them.
Request a Free Quote For Brick Step Repair From Dennis Robert Masonry
When your brick steps start to crumble, it’s time to call Dennis Robert Masonry for a free consultation and quote. Contact us today at +1 (248) 794-0066 or fill out our online form. We offer quality, long-lasting brick step repair in Royal Oak MI.
