How Minnesota Weather Damages Brick & Chimneys and How to Prevent Costly Repairs
Minnesota winters are extremely cold, snowy, icy and freeze-thaw rich and can cause significant damage to masonry structures over time. Brick surfaces, chimneys, patios and retaining walls are all vulnerable to weather exposure and typically homeowners are not aware of the speed at which weather can compromise these. A professional such as Murphy Masonry can assist property owners to detect early damage signs and prevent the costlier structural repair works, if they become serious issues.
Though brick and chimney structures are designed to last, there is nothing impervious to the effects of moisture, freezing and seasonal temperature fluctuations. It is important to know how the weather affects masonry, so that homeowners can take preventive action to make sure their property remains safe and beautiful.
Minnesota's Weather Is Hard on Masonry Structures for a Number of Reasons
Minnesota has some of the most severe seasonal weather events in the nation. In winter, water from rain and snow penetrates cracks and pores in brick and mortar. Cooling will cause the water to expand when it freezes.
This expansion generates stress within the structure, over a time period will result in cracks, decaying mortar joints and decaying surfaces. The freeze-thaw cycle continues throughout the season, causing increasingly more damage.
The summer weather conditions can also be a source of masonry problems. Older mortar joints may become weaker as humidity levels rise and with heavy rain and sudden storms there is a potential for more water to penetrate inside chimneys and brick walls.
Common Signs of Brick and Chimney Damage
Being aware of the issues associated with masonry work at an early stage can save homeowners thousands of dollars in future repairs. There are many warning signs that start out trivial but rapidly escalate if not addressed.
Cracked and Crumbling Mortar
Bricks are joined together by mortar joints, which also prevent moisture from entering. Mortar can crack, crumble or delaminate from the brick over time, due to freezing temperatures and exposure to moisture.
Spalling Bricks
Spalling is the process of the outer surface of a brick chipping, peeling and flaking off. This is usually a result of water getting in and freezing several times.
Leaning Chimneys
If the chimney topples over, it's a sign of structural issues, and could be from foundation movement, moisture, or the failure of the mortar joints. The problem needs to be checked right away.
Water Stains and Interior Leaks
Leaky chimneys or broken chimney flashing can cause water stains near fireplaces, attic spaces and/or interior walls.
White Powder Residue
Efflorescence is white powdery material that builds up on the surface of brick due to moisture attracting salts from within the masonry. It's a small thing, but typically indicates too much moisture issues.
The Damage That Can Result From Freeze-Thaw Cycles Over Time
In colder climates, one of the most common ways that masonry deteriorates is through freeze-thaw cycles. Water can get into brick and mortar surfaces even through small cracks.
When the water freezes it expands by almost 9%, causing stresses in the masonry materials. This constant pressure has the effect of compromising the structure's integrity over time, leading to noticeable damage.
If untreated, freeze-thaw will cause:
Broken bricks
Collapsing mortar joints
Chimney instability
Water intrusion
Structural shifting
Expensive reconstruction projects
It is much cheaper to maintain structures than to rebuild damaged masonry structures.
Weather Damage Is Particularly Likely to Occur on Chimneys
Because chimneys are above the roof line, they are continually subjected to rain and snow, wind and ice. Chimneys differ from other masonry structures in that they will take in the weather from all directions all year long.
The greatest risk to chimney systems is moisture intrusion. A damaged chimney crown, cracked mortar joints, and missing flashing allow water access into the house. The freezing temperatures, which are more severe once the wind chill traps the air inside, hasten deterioration.
Common Chimney Issues Due to the Weather in Minnesota Include:
Damaged Chimney Crowns
The chimney crown is located at the top of a chimney and its purpose is to keep water out of the chimney. Moisture can work its way into the masonry below when the crown of the building has cracks.
Deteriorated Flashing
A seal is the junction between the chimney and roof that must be sealed. Damage to the flashing may lead to water leaks in the roof and water damage to the interior.
Loose or Missing Bricks
The mortar joints become weakened by heavy moisture and bricks eventually loosen, creating safety hazards.
Here Are Some Tips for Masonry Maintenance for Homeowners to Help Keep Your Home in Good Condition
The most effective way of prolonging the life of brick and chimney work is to undertake routine maintenance. By fixing small problems before they get worse, homeowners can avoid major fixes.
Have an Annual Masonry Inspection
Professional inspections can detect cracks, water damage and leaking mortar at an early stage, before structural issues arise.
Properly Seal Masonry Surfaces
Waterproof sealants can be used to close the gaps between masonry materials and to limit moisture penetration without suffocating the materials.
Fixing Cracked Mortar
Fixing cracked mortar is a rather quick and simple procedure. When mortar joints are cracked, repointing them will keep water out of the building.
Clean Gutters & Drainage Systems
Good drainage will keep water away from masonry foundations and chimney.
Keep Snow and Ice Buildup Off of Surfaces
During winter, moisture exposure can be increased if excessive snow and ice build up around chimneys and brick surfaces.
Professional Masonry Installation Is Crucial
The durability of masonry buildings is greatly influenced by the quality of their craftsmanship. These are all factors that help to ensure long-lasting results:
Professionals who have done Block and Brick Installation in Minnesota have the knowledge and expertise to construct masonry buildings that can withstand harsh freeze-thaw effects and exposure to moisture during the season.
Professional masonry installation further enhances property value, energy efficiency, and structure stability in the long run.
When to Call Masonry Professionals
Certain masonry problems might seem aesthetic on the surface, but can escalate into serious structural problems rapidly. If your home needs repairs, homeowners should reach out to masonry professionals when they see:
Cracks in brick walls or chimneys that are more than an inch wide
Leaning chimney structures
Leaks around fireplaces
Falling or loose bricks or mortar
Severe brick spalling
Drafting problems in fireplaces
Wet damage can progress with time, so it's important to not put off repairs as it can cause the problem to become much more expensive.
Final Thoughts
Brick and chimney systems are very susceptible to the damage that can occur during Minnesota's climate, particularly when moisture and freezing temperatures occur over several seasons. To prevent long-term deterioration of masonry structures regular inspections, preventative maintenance and timely repairs are all critical.
From repairing mortar joints and replacing damaged bricks to enhancing drainage systems, proactive maintenance can help homeowners prevent significant structural issues from occurring. Professional Chimney Repair Services MN can also help identify potential problems early and help keep chimney systems safe, stable and weather tight for years to come.
