Brick
Exterior brick is very durable. Made from fired
clay, brick is fire-resistant and low-maintenance.
It also promotes energy conservation.
Care and maintenance
If there’s any part of your home that takes care
of itself, it’s the brick exterior. The following tips
will cover any minor maintenance needed:
Apply a commercial weed killer to plants
or vines growing on brick walls. (Read
manufacturer’s instructions for safety.) Plants
or vines hold moisture and may damage the
exterior of your home.
Inspect caulking between the brick, windows,
and doors annually. Remove old caulk and
reapply new caulk as needed.
Check annually to ensure nothing is obstructing
the weep holes. Obstructions may trap moisture
between bricks and the drainage plane.
Every three years, inspect mortar joints for
deterioration.
Look for cracks where brick transitions to stucco.
If you locate cracks, caulk and paint over them.
Also, see Exterior Caulking (Page 45).
Cleaning brick
Some general cleaning practices are applicable
to many types of brick. However, how effective
the cleaning practice is depends on many
factors, including the brick’s color, texture,
and the substance staining the brick. Learn as
much as you can about the brick on your home
then consult with a brick manufacturer, who
will be able to tell you what’s best for cleaning
your specific brick type. Choose a cleaner that
suits your brick and follow the manufacturer’s
recommendations for use.
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