How to Avoid Brick Spalling

A typical issue observed throughout many of our home inspections is brick spalling. What is spalling? Spalling occurs when bricks have been exposed to excessive moisture and freeze/thaw cycles. If bricks have too much moisture absorbed into them and freezing occurs, the water trapped in the bricks will expand which over long periods of time will lead to the deterioration of the bricks in the form of cracking or flaking, otherwise known as spalling.

So how do you avoid spalling? Some common conditions that lead to spalling are poor grading; excessive earth or mulch placed directly against the bricks and even lumber from decks that are directly attached to the home can lead to spalling issues.

Your home inspector will likely point out issues like these even if spalling hasn’t occurred so you can be proactive in making the required improvements to help prevent spalling from occurring. Ensuring proper grading is performed and removing gardens or planter boxes in direct contact with bricks are just some ideas that your home inspector may recommend to help prevent spalling from happening.

If spalling is pointed out during your home inspection, you should consult with a professional mason to determine the proper course of action for repairs and discuss what improvements may be needed to prevent future spalling from occurring again.

Above Grade Home Inspections Inc. has been performing professional home inspections in Barrie and surrounding areas since 2006.