How Weather Impacts Masonry and When to Call for Repair in Toronto

Understanding Masonry and Weather Exposure

It is known that masonry structures are very strong and classic, but they are not completely resistant to damage, especially in places like Toronto where the weather can be quite unpredictable. There is the hot and humid summers followed by the frigid cold winters and the constant changes in temperature can be hard on a person. Masonry may appear hard, but with time, it is worn down by water, wind, ice and sun.

 

The bricks and the mortar may crack, slip, or disintegrate because they expand and contract. You don't realize it at first, but then when it finally hits you, it is already accumulating its effects. When you start noticing some cracks here and there or even the falling off of the pieces, it is high time that you start searching for masonry repair Toronto services.

 

Freeze-Thaw Cycles: The Silent Brick Killer

The freeze-thaw cycle is one of the most harmful weather patterns when it comes to masonry in Toronto. This occurs when water enters the brick or mortar joints and then freezes when there is a drop in temperature. This is because the water expands when it turns to ice, thus causing cracks or worsening the already existing ones. Once it melts, the water infiltrates the material further. This cycle goes on throughout the winter and gradually erodes the structure. You might not even notice how much damage is occurring until the warmer months come along and the evidence becomes very apparent.

 

You may see efflorescence, that white stuff that looks like powder on the surface of brick- this is an indication that moisture has been travelling through the wall. The cracks may be small, but as they progress with time, they expand and open up to more moisture. It turns into a cycle that will not end until the building is sealed or fixed.

 

Summer Heat and UV Damage

Toronto summers are hot and although heat does not damage the mortar immediately, it can dry it out. The direct sunlight and the UV rays can make older bricks weak and porous, and thus the bricks can absorb water in case of rainstorms. Add in some summer storms and you have a formula to do even more damage.

 

Heat may also expand materials thus may shift with time. In case you observe any cracks between bricks or the pieces of the wall that appear not level, the damage could be the result of long-term exposure to heat and then moisture.

 

Signs It's Time to Call for Masonry Repair

Some of the early signs that you need to find masonry repair Toronto specialists are as follows. Cracks in the bricks or mortar, loose or missing bricks, and other indicators of water damage to the house like peeling paint or damp walls all indicate that the exterior is failing to do its job.

 

 

Why Local Knowledge Matters

It is a plus to select a contractor that has the knowledge of the climate in Toronto. They will be aware of which materials are best suited to withstand our kind of weather and what to look out for in case of damage. Masonry work is not merely about getting the bricks fixed but making sure that the repair is long-lasting several winters and summers later.

 

Final Thoughts

Toronto weather is not kind to masonry and as a homeowner, it is just one of the things you have to keep an eye on. These areas include your chimney, exterior walls and foundation and they should be checked regularly. Facing uncertainty, it is always best to contact masonry repair Toronto services to avoid more severe problems in the future. It is better to find it early rather than have crumbling bricks.