How Do You Replace Bricks For Old Buildings?
Even brick walls eventually wear down. One problem is cracking or spalling in individual bricks, which requires replacement. Replacing old bricks can be a complicated job. Although the masonry skills involved are basic, you not only need to find old bricks that match those in your wall but determine what the wall’s mortar was made of as well. For a small replacement job involving just a handful of bricks, you might spend more time in the library than doing physical labor. Research your house. Bricks and mortar in use before the 1930s and ’40s were softer, so mixing them with modern materials can result in cracked or spalled brick and wasted effort. Be certain of the age of your house, which materials were used in the masonry, and what was used in any repointing work. Rake out the mortar surrounding the bricks to be replaced with a hammer and a cold chisel. Attempt to pry the brick out with a crowbar. If it will not come out easily, drill holes through the brick with a large masonry bit
