Hendersonville Brick and Lintel Repair

Moisture infiltration is one of the most common causes of damage to brickwork. When water seeps into the bricks, it can cause them to expand and contract as they absorb and release moisture. Over time, this can lead to cracks and crumbling in the mortar joints that hold the bricks together. In addition, water can also cause efflorescence, a white powdery substance that forms on the surface of bricks when salts are brought to the surface by moisture. This can weaken the structural integrity of the brickwork and make it more susceptible to further damage. If left unchecked, moisture infiltration can lead to serious issues like mold growth, rotting wood, and even foundation damage. That is why it is important to address any signs of water damage early on: By repairing damaged areas and taking steps to prevent future infiltration, you can ensure that your brickwork stays strong and durable for years to come.

Cosmetic repairs to cracking or crumbling brickwork will not be successful long-term unless underlying issues are also addressed. You must resolve the root problem of moisture infiltration and any related foundation issues. Otherwise, damage to your brickwork is likely to return, and the issue will typically worsen and become more expensive to address. 

How Tuckpointing Repairs Damaged Brickwork

Our Hendersonville brick and lintel repair services are designed to make your façade look as good as new while simultaneously resolving moisture infiltration and foundation problems. Because we believe in a comprehensive, complete approach you can depend on, we do not offer standalone brick repair solutions but do include them with our foundation repair services. That way, you can rest easy knowing your structure is sound and that your bricks will not experience further damage. 

After resolving water penetration and foundation issues, we accomplish brick repair through a technique called “tuckpointing.” This process involves using a combination of specialized tools and materials to carefully remove the old mortar without damaging the surrounding bricks and then filling in the gaps with fresh mortar that matches the color and texture of the original. Some damaged bricks may be repairable, while others may need to be entirely replaced with identical bricks. Tuckpointing not only improves the appearance of brickwork, but it also helps to strengthen its structural integrity by ensuring that all joints are tightly sealed and protected from moisture infiltration. In addition, tuckpointing can help to prevent further damage by addressing any cracks or gaps that may have developed over time.

What Are the Signs of Garage Door Lintel Damage?

A garage door lintel is a structural component that sits above the garage door opening and provides support for the weight of the wall, roof, and brickwork above. It is typically made of steel or reinforced concrete and is designed to distribute the load of the wall evenly across the garage door opening.

Your garage door lintel may become damaged over time for one of several reasons. One common cause of damage is exposure to the elements, including improper moisture penetration, which can cause corrosion or deterioration of the component’s material. Settling or shifting of the building’s foundation or walls can also lead to damage to the lintel if it is not properly reinforced. Furthermore, if the lintel was not installed properly or was undersized for the weight it needs to support, it may begin to sag or crack under pressure over time. 

Regular inspection of your garage door lintel can help catch these issues early and avoid the need for more expensive repairs. Reach out to USS right away if you spot any cracks forming above the garage door lintel or if the lintel or garage door frame is sagging. 

Repairing a Damaged Garage Door Lintel

The first step to addressing garage door lintel problems is to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether repair or replacement is necessary. If the damage is minor, such as small cracks or corrosion, it may be possible to repair the lintel using epoxy or other materials. However, if the damage is more severe, a complete replacement may be required. To replace the lintel, the garage door will need to be removed and any electrical components disconnected. The damaged lintel will then be carefully removed and replaced with a new one that is properly sized and reinforced for the weight it needs to support. When the new lintel is in place, the garage door can be reinstalled and any electrical connections reconnected. 

Depending on the needs of the structure, lag bolts may be installed as part of both repair and replacement jobs. Bricks and mortar adjacent to the lintel will also be replaced as needed. Our Hendersonville brick and lintel repair experts are well-versed in how to complete this type of work effectively and efficiently, and we will always walk you through what the process will entail and why.