Brick is a popular and durable monolithic material. It attracts specialists due to its low water absorption rate. However, if the humidity in the area is very high, it’s still necessary to protect the building from mold and various contaminants that negatively affect the overall aesthetics of the structure.
It is important to understand that not only moisture inside the building affects it, but also atmospheric precipitation or soil. All of this slowly but regularly degrades the characteristics initially provided by the manufacturer. Of course, you won’t notice any changes immediately, but after ten years or more, the brick will not be as strong as before, and it will also suffer from mold.
Methods of protecting a brick house from moisture
There are safe methods for protection, so it’s recommended to use a hydrophobic agent or impregnation to extend the potential lifespan of the structure. It’s better to use both methods to achieve the maximum beneficial effect. By the way, the solution should first be applied to the exterior, then to the interior, only after the insulation system has been installed. Without insulation, it’s not advisable to apply this protection, as moisture will accumulate even more on the surfaces.
The joints of the bricks, after the installation work, are considered the most vulnerable spots. The ones closest to the foundation suffer the most. The stone absorbs some of the water vapor, but this process is not enough, so additional waterproofing work is needed. This will increase the potential usage time of the structure.
If protection is not taken care of, you will later notice disadvantages like white efflorescence, frost damage, and destruction of the masonry. Walls need to be treated regularly, not just once. Ideally, this should be done every 10 years. This way, you won’t only get rid of mold but will also fully clean the surface from dust, dirt, debris, and leftover paint. Thus, the brick will look almost new for some time. The key is to let the first coat dry fully before applying the second one; otherwise, the result will not be effective.
Benefits of regular surface treatment:
- Increased service life
- Convenient usage
- Safe composition
- Long-term result
- Reliable mold resistance
It is difficult to say how long this protection will last since some people find it sufficient for 10 years, while others get twice as much time. It likely depends on the specific composition used, the season, weather conditions during application, and the overall climate of the area. Therefore, at least plan for 10 years without needing to invest in maintenance to prevent mold issues.
How to avoid efflorescence on walls
It is recommended to use water-repellent impregnation. It is important that it is specifically made for brick, not another building material. This will ensure long-lasting protection. It is believed that this method helps fight efflorescence for up to 30 years. Moisture won’t be absorbed, so there won’t be any visible defects on the walls.
If this type is unsuitable, another option is a special varnish. It not only creates a nice protective film but also adds a pleasant shine to the treated surface. This can make the masonry look even more aesthetically pleasing.
On the market for waterproofing materials, there is also acrylic or silicone mixture, as well as a separate silicone protector, which is water-based, so it won’t suffer from increased moisture – a big advantage.
The key is to make sure that you want to apply a solution with a water-repelling effect. If there is no thin film, then the brick won’t be protected. The water needs to simply run off the surface and not stagnate anywhere; otherwise, efflorescence will appear and eventually ruin the building material.
Steps for applying a protective solution to brick
It is recommended to first determine the source of increased moisture around the house before applying any solution. This can be done easily and quickly by spending a bit of time examining the joints. If everything is fine with them, then simply apply the solution to the surface to protect the elements, just in case. If there is dirt, it should first be thoroughly cleaned. A special paste or brush can be used for this. A rag won’t be enough to remove all the negative elements, which can impact the effectiveness of the treatment.
Steps for applying the protective solution:
- Clean the surface.
- Dry the bricks.
- Apply the solution at temperatures between +10 and +30°C.
- Wait for it to dry.
- Apply a second coat.
It is also important to consider the moisture level during application. It should not be too low or too high. The minimum level is 50%, and the maximum is 70%. The optimal break between the first and second layers is 24 hours. This is enough for the brick to absorb the solution fully and acquire its functional properties. Any excess should be removed using a sponge, but it should only be used diagonally, not in any other direction. Don’t forget this important detail, or the liquid won’t bond as it should.
When choosing an impregnation, pay attention to the following factors:
- Price
- Reputation of the manufacturer
- Strength after drying
- Adhesion
- Water-repellent properties
If a third layer is necessary, wait a full 72 hours after the first. The final impregnation should be perfectly even, as this is the last stage, and it will affect the overall aesthetics of the house.
When everything is done correctly, the walls will shine, meaning they are fully protected from increased moisture. The result will last at least 10 years. It is recommended to repeat the treatment using only high-quality materials. Even a beginner can handle this task, as you just need to apply the solution to the surface.