Sealing Brick Exteriors: Protecting your property

Brick and mortar exteriors, such as facades and other structures, represent high durability and unparalleled sturdiness. It is a timeless look that will never go old.

In spite of all these, brick exteriors do need some level of maintenance to keep them protected from harsh weather conditions, especially in extremely damp areas such as Northwest Florida.

What can be done to avoid damage to your brick and mortar property?

First, we must recognize that brick and mortar is an appealing look, but it certainly is not waterproof. The mortar is porous, so it absorbs water and other moisture, which can cause leaks in a brick building. Water and moisture can also cause efflorescence to appear on bricks. Efflorescence is that particular white staining that appears on the masonry surface because water breaks down the natural salts in brick. So, if you notice either wet stains on the interior walls of your brick building, or you see that your brick is taking on a slightly white hue, it might be time to consider a coating application to slow down water intrusion into your brick and mortar building’s exterior.

In order to keep your brick and mortar exterior from absorbing water, a brick sealer water repellent can be applied. These products penetrate the brick and mortar to repel water, while they still allow the brick to “breathe”. Using the proper water repellent will protect your commercial building’s exterior without harming the masonry, but if you happen to choose the wrong one, it might end up causing harm. That’s the reason why we recommend that you enlist the help of commercial painting and waterproofing professionals when looking to prevent water intrusion to a building’s exterior, that is the best way to make sure an actual adequate product is going to be used to protect the brick structure.

A qualified exterior business and commercial building waterproofing expert will know how to select the right product for your property’s exterior. A water repellent, not a film-forming sealant, should be used. Film-forming sealants may cause a hazy look to develop on your brick. And in colder climates, film-forming sealants may cause bricks to flake. Water repellents, however, typically don’t discolor your brick and sunlight rarely causes them to break down. But determining which water repellent is right for your brick can be difficult. A professional will ensure that your brick is protected and not damaged further by the use of the incorrect product.

At CertaPro Painters® Northwest Florida, we can provide you with a water repellent that is safe for your building and preserves the look of your brick and mortar exterior. Brick and masonry waterproofing professionals will also make sure the surface is properly prepared and the water repellent is applied according to manufacturer specifications. If you want to get an estimate for our brick sealing and waterproofing services, please contact us! We are more than happy to help.