Brick and Mortar Restoration at Historical Site

Figure 4 shows sand extracted from mortar in acid digestion test.

Petrographic analysis, as per ASTM C 856, was used in evaluating mortar samples taken from the bricks. An acid digestion test was also used to extract the sand that was used in formulating the bricks.

DISCUSSION OF BRICK AND MORTAR RESTORATION EVALUATION

Mortar holding the bricks together was found to have developed extensive cracks within the cementitious paste of the mortar compromising it ability to hold the bricks together. A portion of the mortar was also used in an acid digestion test to extract the cement component of the cement paste.

Residual gelatinous hydration product was noted in the voids of mortar. The mortar was completely carbonated as expected. The average sand content in the mortar was estimated at about 65%; the combined cement and colored pigment at about 35%.

From the evaluation, a brick and mortar restoration plan was developed to address the issues found.

 

BRICK AND MORTAR RESTORATION

It is important to repair the damaged mortar. Mortar is the cement mixture that connects each brick together. Over time, the mortar can wear down and cause issues with structural integrity, appearance and other concerns. The main process brick and mortar restoration professionals use to repair damaged mortar is brick repointing.

In brick and mortar restoration, repointing involves removing the damaged mortar, applying water to the bricks and mortar and strategically placing new mortar. Although it seems simple, it is not a DIY project for building owners as an improper application of the mortar while repointing can cause serious concern to the long-term structural integrity of the brick.