In our Case Study article, one of the aspects of Abbot’s scope of work was to replace spalled brick. Regrettably, spalling has been a hot topic recently as it has been associated with the building collapse in Florida.
What is Spalling?
Spalling refers to the deterioration and chipping away of brick at the surface level. This deterioration is typically initiated when moisture becomes trapped inside of the brick surface. Think of the freeze/thaw cycle of New England weather. Water penetrates into the brick as the deep Winter freeze begins. When Spring rolls around, any trapped snow or ice begins to melt causing the face of the brick to begin to chip off.
Common Causes
Common causes of spalling include leaky windows, doors, chimneys, and gutters. Spalling may also be caused by mechanical defects such as use of an incorrect mortar type or the deterioration of the internal anchoring system. Any settlement in the wall, thermal expansion, or vibration, is deflected instead of being absorbed by the mortar. The resulting pressure then transmits back to the brick, ultimately leading to spalling.
Left untreated, spalling can lead to more significant problems such as structural damage. Large chunks of brick may begin to fall causing a safety concern for those around the structure. Take the first signs of spalling as a warning signal to act on it. With spalling, earlier is better.
Prevention Methods
To prevent spalling, we recommend application of a breathable masonry sealant to the brick wall along with the incorporation of a proper drainage system. Depending on the severity, replacement may involve a few bricks or a whole section.
