Brentwood Brick and Lintel Repair

Cracking or crumbling brick is more than an aesthetic blemish on your building’s façade. It is also typically a sign that something is wrong with the building’s foundation. Your building may be experiencing water penetration issues, which will need to be addressed before the brickwork can be repaired. Patching cosmetic issues will not produce the desired result in the long run, as your building’s bricks will eventually crack or crumble again.

After underlying foundation issues have been resolved, cracked brick can be repaired through a process called tuckpointing. Tuckpointing involves removing the damaged mortar between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar. This helps to strengthen the structure of the wall and prevent further damage. However, it is important to note that not all cracks can be repaired through tuckpointing. If the crack is caused by a serious structural issue or if the damage is too extensive, then replacement of the entire brick may be necessary. Our Brentwood brick and lintel repair experts can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate course of action. If total replacement is necessary, we will use matching bricks to ensure both form and function.

If you ignore crumbling or cracking bricks, the damage will likely worsen over time. This can lead to further structural issues, safety hazards, and an increased risk of water damage. In extreme cases, ignoring brick damage can even lead to the collapse of the entire structure. Therefore, it is always best to address any brick damage as soon as possible in order to avoid more serious problems down the road. Timely repairs can help avoid more costly and extensive repairs in the future while prolonging the lifespan of your building's exterior.

Because foundation repairs are necessary to achieve long-term results with tuckpointing, our team at USS does not offer tuckpointing as a standalone service. We are not interested in implementing a fix that will inevitably fail. Instead, tuckpointing is included with our foundation repair services. We can propose a comprehensive approach that protects both the structural integrity as well as the curbside appeal of your home or commercial building. 

What Causes a Garage Lintel to Fail?

Garage lintels are structural components that play a crucial role in supporting the weight of the brickwork above a garage door opening. They are typically made of steel or concrete and are installed horizontally above the opening. Lintels distribute the weight of the brickwork evenly across the columns or walls on either side of the opening, which helps to prevent sagging and cracking. 

Over time, garage lintels can become damaged because of exposure to:

• Moisture
• Rust
• Other corroding elements

Signs of garage door lintel damage include cracks forming above the garage opening and visible sagging in the lintel itself. If you notice any of these indicators, do not wait to get in touch with our Brentwood brick and lintel repair experts. Addressing any damage as soon as possible can help you avoid more costly repairs.

How Are Garage Lintels Repaired or Replaced?

Repairing damaged garage lintels typically involves removing the damaged section and replacing it with a new one. The first step in repairing a lintel is to support the weight of the brickwork above using adjustable props or acrow supports. The damaged section is then cut out, taking care to avoid damaging any surrounding brickwork. A new lintel is measured and cut to size before being inserted into place and secured with masonry adhesive or mechanical fixings. Once the new lintel is in place, any gaps are filled with mortar and allowed to dry before removing the supports.