How Harsh Winters Affect Brickwork in Hamilton - Reinforced Masonry

Hamilton’s winters can be harsh, with freezing temperatures and heavy snow causing havoc on brick buildings. But brickwork—prized for its lasting qualities and classic good looks—is not immune to the damaging effects of severe weather. Knowing about these effects—and how reinforced masonry plays a part—can help homeowners and businesses safeguard their assets.

The Impact of Harsh Winters on Brickwork

Freeze-Thaw Cycle Damage: The freeze-thaw cycle is one of the biggest causes. When water penetrates the tiny cracks or pores in bricks and mortar, it freezes and expands as temperatures fall. This expansion puts pressure on the masonry, resulting in cracking, spalling (when the material flakes), and general weakness of the structure over time.

Increased Moisture Absorption: Winters are snowy and wet in Hamilton, exposing bricks to high moisture levels. Over time, the mortar joints can deteriorate from prolonged exposure, compromising the integrity of the masonry. Soft or porous bricks are particularly prone to retaining moisture, leading to more rapid deterioration.

Salt and Deicing Chemicals: Salt and deicing chemical products used on driveways and walkways around brick structures may also result in efflorescence—a white, powdery residue on the surface of the brick. The attack of these substances can also chemically damage bricks and mortar, making them prone to corrosion.

Thermal Stress: Hamilton winters can also be abrupt, with dramatic temperature fluctuations, making bricks expand and contract. Over time, this thermal stress can weaken the adhesion between bricks and mortar, resulting in structural instability.

The Role of Reinforced Masonry

In harsh winters, utmost protection can be offered by reinforced masonry. Ultimately adding strength and durability to brickwork, allowing it to fight extreme weather conditions. Here’s how it helps:

Enhanced Structural Integrity: Reinforced masonry contains steel reinforcements within the mortar joints or voids of brick. This extra strength gives the structure the robustness to avoid cracking or collapsing from thermal expansion and freeze-thaw cycles.

Improved Moisture Resistance: Reinforced masonry systems are designed with water-resistant barriers and seals that minimize moisture entry. It reduces the chance of potential damage from water freezing in the brickwork.

Thermal Expansion Resistance: Within the masonry, the steel rebar experiences rapid temperature changes, relieving them before they show the potential for cracking or destroying the structure.

Longevity and Sustainability: Reinforced masonry is built to last for decades, which it can do even in a challenging climate like Hamilton’s. It is long-lasting and requires minimal repairs, which saves money and is gentle on our environment.

How to Protect Brickwork in Winter

Seal the Bricks: Use a breathable, high-quality seal to keep the water out of the masonry.

Fix Cracks Early: Repair any visible cracks in bricks or mortar before winter to prevent additional garaging.

Improve Drainage: Ensure proper drainage around the foundation to keep water away from brick walls.

Routine Maintenance: Inspect brickwork regularly, ideally once yearly, to monitor for signs of wear and tear and engage professional brick repairs whenever necessary.

Conclusion

If you own a brick building in Hamilton, you’ll know how much the city’s wintry weather can take a toll on brick structures — however, with a few prep steps, you can help keep your property safe from harm. Reinforced masonry is a longer-lasting remedy to combat the effects of freeze-thaw cycles, moisture damage, and thermal stress. Reinforced masonry is a smart choice for long-term durability if you are constructing a new building from the ground up or maintaining an existing space.

Call our team today for expert masonry services in Hamilton, including repair and reinforcement. We can work together to keep your brickwork solid and lovely for years.