At Cornerstone Brickwork, we understand the importance of maintaining the strength and finish of your brick and masonry surfaces. With years of hands-on experience across residential and commercial projects, our team prioritises quality materials and smart maintenance solutions that truly protect your property. If you’re wondering whether a brickwork waterproof sealer is worth the investment, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, based on facts, not fluff.
Why Sealing Brickwork Matters
Unlike other building materials, bricks are naturally porous. This means they absorb moisture when exposed to rain or condensation. In colder months, the trapped water freezes and expands, causing bricks to crack or crumble, a process known as frost damage. On older buildings in particular, this can lead to structural instability over time.
Applying a brickwork sealer creates a breathable barrier over the brick’s surface. This barrier allows moisture trapped within the wall to escape, but blocks new water from entering. It’s an essential part of any long-term brickwork maintenance plan, especially in the UK’s damp climate.
Signs Your Brickwork Needs a Sealer
Before investing in sealing, it’s useful to assess the condition of your existing brickwork. Here are some tell-tale signs that your wall might need a sealer for brickwork:
- Visible water absorption: If your bricks darken significantly during rain and stay damp for hours, they’re likely absorbing more water than they should.
- Algae or moss growth: Green or dark staining is a sign of consistent moisture retention, especially on north-facing walls.
- Efflorescence: This white, powdery residue is caused by salt deposits left behind as water evaporates from the bricks.
- Cracks or flaking mortar: Often a result of repeated freeze-thaw cycles or long-term water ingress.
If you spot any of these issues, it’s time to act. Addressing the root cause early, before more invasive repairs are required, can save thousands of pounds in the long run.
What Does a Brickwork Sealer Do?
A brickwork waterproof sealer works in a few critical ways:
- Water resistance: It prevents rain and moisture from penetrating the bricks while allowing existing internal moisture to escape.
- Protection from biological growth: By reducing moisture content, it also minimises the conditions that support algae, moss, and lichen.
- UV protection: Some high-quality sealers offer added UV protection, preserving the natural colour of your bricks.
- Enhanced durability: By reducing the moisture cycling in bricks, a sealer extends the overall lifespan of your masonry.
At Cornerstone Brickwork, we use industry-approved sealers that offer long-lasting results and require minimal maintenance. Our application process ensures even coverage and deep penetration into the surface, ensuring optimal protection.
