Is it safe to work on historical brick buildings?

The use of bricks in construction dates back thousands of years, and many buildings constructed with this material still stand today. However, bricks naturally degrade over time. Exposure to the elements, pollution, and other environmental factors can cause the mortar to weaken and the bricks to deteriorate.

Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the lifespan of older brick buildings. By removing dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the surface, mortar is less likely to weaken, and the bricks are less likely to deteriorate. Regular inspections can help identify areas requiring repair or replacement before they become major issues.

Although historical buildings may occasionally need old bricks replaced, this is preventable through specialised brick cleaning services. Due to the age of these bricks and their delicate nature, gentle and thorough cleaning methods are necessary to avoid any damage.

Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning techniques can cause irreparable damage to the bricks, compromising the structural integrity of the building. Specific companies operate under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 to maintain the original brickwork of many historical buildings.

This act gives special protection to these buildings, ensuring they are appropriately maintained and cleaned. These companies use specialised techniques and equipment to carefully clean the bricks and mortar, preserving the original appearance and structural integrity.

Is it possible to restore historical brickwork?

Restoring old or historical brickwork is a delicate task that requires the expertise of professional brick cleaners. The process is called repointing, which revolves around restoring brickwork by replacing old, deteriorated mortar with fresh joints.

The repointing process carries a risk that the new mortar might not be compatible with the original materials. Incompatibility between the new and old mortar can lead to issues like cracks and internal deterioration within the bricks. The incorrect execution of this restoration process could potentially compromise the building's character and historic integrity, causing irreparable damage.

It is integral to enlist the services of experienced brick cleaners to ensure a successful brick restoration project. These professionals possess the expertise to assess the historical brickwork, select appropriate materials, and conduct the repointing process.

With this, you significantly reduce the risk of causing damage to the original brickwork and ensure the preservation of its historical significance. Working closely with architectural salvage companies can be a valuable component of the restoration process.

These companies offer a selection of reclaimed materials, including bricks and mortar, that closely match the structures. By sourcing original materials from reputable architectural salvage companies, you can maintain their authenticity.

Through careful repointing, compatible mortar, and preserving the building's unique appearance, you can restore the historical brickwork while protecting its architectural heritage efficiently.

We cover all areas in the Thanet District of Kent, including:

• Birchington-on-Sea
• Broadstairs
• Cliffsend
• Manston
• Margate
• Minster-in-Thanet
• Monkton
• Sarre
• Westgate-on-Sea

Find out more about our cleaning services

To find out more about our full range of cleaning services, give us a call at 0208 066 0360 or email us at enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk and a member of our friendly support team will get back to you as soon as possible.