Caring for Your Home

Main Topic Index » Topics A through D

Brick

Brick is one of the most durable and lowest maintenance finishes for a home's exterior. A record of your brick color is included in your color selection sheets.

The white, powdery substance that sometimes accumulates on brick surfaces is called efflorescence. This is a natural phenomenon and cannot be prevented. In some cases, you can remove it by scrubbing with a stiff brush and vinegar. Consult your home center or hardware store for commercial products to remove efflorescence.

After several years, face brick may require tuck-pointing (repairing the mortar between the bricks). Otherwise, no regular maintenance is required.

You may notice small holes with rope in them in the mortar along the lower row of bricks. These holes allow moisture that has accumulated behind the brick to escape. Do not fill these weep holes or pull the rope out or permit landscaping materials to cover them.

We check the brick work during the orientation to confirm correct installation of designated materials.

One time during the warranty period, we repair masonry cracks that exceed 3/16 inch.