When there is water leakage through joints in brick masonry walls, the issue can be fixed by either grouting or repointing the joints. Often, wind can drive water through joints or adjacent structural elements such as floors or staircases that lean toward the wall and lead water towards it. To effectively treat the joints, both the vertical and horizontal joints of the wall must be addressed.
To properly repair the wall, it is important to inspect it thoroughly and identify any areas that are defective. Once the defective areas have been identified, the wall joints should be prepared for either grouting or repointing. Repointing involves removing mortar from the joint to a depth of approximately 1.6cm and then repointing the joint with a suitable grout.
By taking these steps and addressing both vertical and horizontal joints, the water leakage issue can be effectively resolved. It is important to ensure that the appropriate repair method is used to prevent any further damage and maintain the structural integrity of the wall.
How to Repair Leaky Joints in Masonry Walls
To determine defective joints through which water travels, it is necessary to remove mortar from deteriorated joints to a depth of around 1.6cm, as shown in Figure 2. The joints should then be cleaned with water to remove dust and dirt from both joints and bricks.
When the wall is still damp but with no visible water, suitable mortar should be used to repoint the joints. The mortar should be placed tightly into the joint and have a stiff consistency to take its place correctly. To reduce shrinkage, it is recommended to wait for 1 hour or more before applying the mortar into the joints, as shown in Figure 3.
After repointing, it is important to keep the masonry in a damp condition for 2 to 3 days. If the bricks are highly absorptive, they may contain enough water to aid in curing.
In cases where a less expensive treatment method is desired, grouting can be used. However, it should be noted that grouting is less effective, durable, and water-resistant than the repointing technique. To apply grout, wet the masonry wall sufficiently, and apply a thin coating of grout over the joints in the masonry when it is in a damp condition.
As the grout gains a heavy cream consistency, it should be scrubbed into the joint with a stiff bristle brush to increase the apparent thickness of the masonry joints. Before the grout hardens, excess grout should be removed from smooth-textured brick with a damp sponge. Care should be taken not to remove grout from between the edges of the brick and the mortar joints.
FAQs on Repair of the Leaky Joints in Masonry Wall
How do you fix leaky joints in brick wall?
When water leaks through the joints of a brick wall masonry, there are two methods that can be used to repair it. The first method is grouting, which involves filling in the joints with a cement-based mixture. Grouting is a relatively easy and quick fix, as it can be applied directly to the affected areas. However, it may not be suitable for larger or more severe leaks, as it may not be able to fully seal the joint.
The second method is repointing, which involves removing the damaged mortar from the joints and replacing it with new mortar. Repointing is a more involved process, as it requires careful removal of the damaged mortar and precise application of the new mortar. However, it is generally considered to be a more long-term solution, as it can fully seal the joint and prevent future leaks.
Ultimately, the choice between grouting and repointing will depend on the severity of the leak and the condition of the brick wall. A professional contractor or masonry expert can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
What is repointing?
Repointing is a task that involves the removal of mortar from a joint, to a depth of approximately 1.6 cm. The objective of this process is to replace the mortar with an appropriate grout material, in order to restore the structural integrity of the joint.
The process of repointing typically begins with the careful removal of the old mortar, which is usually done using a combination of specialized tools and techniques. Once the old mortar has been removed to the required depth, the joint is then thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the application of the new grout material.
It is important to use a suitable grout material during the repointing process, as this will help to ensure that the joint remains structurally sound and watertight. The grout material used for repointing should be carefully selected based on a variety of factors, including the type of masonry, the location of the joint, and the overall condition of the structure.
Overall, repointing is an essential task in maintaining the structural integrity of masonry structures. By carefully removing old mortar and applying a suitable grout material, the joint can be restored to its original strength and stability, helping to ensure the longevity of the entire structure.
How long should mortar be cured after repointing?
To ensure the success of repointing masonry, it is recommended to keep the masonry damp for a period of 2 to 3 days. This step is crucial as it allows the newly applied mortar to properly cure and set in place. By keeping the masonry damp, the mortar is able to absorb moisture, which is necessary for the chemical process of hydration to occur. This process ultimately strengthens the bond between the mortar and the masonry, ensuring a strong and durable repair. Therefore, it is important to carefully monitor the moisture levels during this period to ensure that the masonry remains damp enough to facilitate the curing process.
What is the mix proportion for grout?
The statement suggests that for grout, the amount of Portland cement should be the same as the amount of sand used. In other words, the ratio of Portland cement to sand in grout should be 1:1. This is a crucial aspect to consider as grout is typically used to fill gaps between tiles or bricks, and its strength is essential in ensuring the stability of the structure. If the mixture of Portland cement and sand is not balanced, the grout may not be strong enough to hold the tiles or bricks in place. Therefore, it is important to adhere to the recommended ratio of Portland cement and sand to ensure the strength and durability of the grout.