The escalating energy costs can cause residential and commercial property owners to look for more efficient ways to reduce the cost of energy. A fundamental but undervalued component is brick pointing it is the process of assessing and repairing mortar (cement-like substance) between the bricks. The mortar weakens with time leading to fractures that make way for air and moisture penetration. The process of brick pointing helps protect against structural damage, moisture, unwanted airflow, and loss of excessive heat.
The Fundamentals of Masonry Restoration
The process of maintaining or repairing Masonry structures like stonework, brickwork, and concrete work that suffered from weather conditions, moisture, decay, and long-term usage effects. Masonry repair and restoration plays a vital role in the outlook of the property. Be it fixing deteriorated mortars, filling gaps, or strengthening the structure of buildings, masonry repair efficiently maintains energy performance. It uses various strategies to fix the damages, some of them are:
- Brick Pointing
- Stone Replacement
- Waterproofing & Sealing
The maintenance of masonry structures relies on brick pointing to uphold stability. The main purpose of Brick-pointing is to seal the joints and protect the structure from deterioration. Not only does brick pointing stabilize the structure but also significant in reducing energy costs. It increases the market value of the property provides enduring protection and also shields against different weather conditions.
In this blog, we’ll discuss what exactly is brick pointing, its cost-effective solution, and how it reduces energy:
How Does Brick Pointing Reduce Energy Costs?
There are several ways to reduce energy costs by brick pointing, some of them are:
1. Securing Gaps and Air Seepage:
Damaged mortar joints cause leaks of hot air in summer and cold air in winter. As a result, HVAC units increase the energy strains, consuming more power usage. By securing the gaps and air seepage from brick pointing we can optimize the building’s insulation power and reduce energy loss.
Read more in detail about weathered pointing.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency:
Properly sealed mortar joints improve the heat-absorbing capacity of a brick, which can stabilize the indoor temperature and reduce the cost of energy. Brick Pointing solidifies the Brick which reduces the heat loss and gain and maintains the stress-free energy expenses.
3. Blocking Water Seepage:
The water seepage damages the mortar joints, increases the excessive loss of heat, and weakens the insulation. Moist walls allow heat to transfer quickly, which lowers energy efficiency. Brick-pointing prevents moisture, keeping the insulation efficient and energy costs reduced.
4. Preserving Structural Resilience:
Structures with damaged mortar joints lead to costly maintenance in the future. The damaged masonry demands excessive labor expenses and more renovations. Brick pointing saves long-term maintenance and higher energy costs.
To overcome the confusion about structural brick pointing, learn this guide.
Energy Saving Problems in Residential and Commercial Property
Let’s have a look at the energy-saving problems in Residential and Commercial Properties. Some of them are listed below:
1. Example of Residential Property
Taking a look at residential property energy saving problem would be noticed as it is in cold areas where heating expenses are high due to poor wall insulation. After inspection, we conducted a heat scanning test where the major cause was the cavities in mortar joints. Here masonry Brick pointing was performed, followed by the results.
- More than 40% savings on heating expenses
- More warmth indoors with reduced airflow
- Sustained strength of exterior walls
2. Commercial Property Example
We found out that in a commercial property damaged mortar joints caused energy inefficiency and struggled with excessive heating costs. After inspection, we applied brick pointing and sealed the mortar joints, we observed an improvement in results:
- More than 30% drop in energy consumption
- Cost-effective maintenance for HVAC units
- Better heat and cooling retention
For a better understanding of how brick pointing improves property value, explore this guide.
Smart Techniques for Energy-Efficient Brick Pointing
For the best energy-saving outcomes from brick pointing, apply the following smart techniques:
1. Use the suitable Mortar Mixture:
Use the best mortar that maintains strength and aligns with the original one, consider applying lime-based mortars as it is energy efficient and promotes better air circulation and moisture control.
2. Use Eco-friendly and energy-efficient materials:
Use biodegradable materials and thermal-efficient mortars with heat-resistant additives like Perlite and silicates, also finish the bricks with extra protective moisture-resistant sealing.
Let’s have a look at some of the best materials for brick pointing.
3. Opt for skilled masonry for lasting results:
Opt for experienced masonry contractors for top-notch results and lasting quality. Frequently keep a check to improve energy performance. This can cause a reduction in the heating and cooling energy expenses of the HVAC system.
Delve into the guide and get to know about how long brick pointing lasts.
Can Brick Pointing be a One-Time Investment for Energy Efficiency?
Yes, without a doubt! Brick-pointing can be a one-time investment as it is an energy-efficient technique and can help in the coming years. Brick Pointing can tightly seal all the air pockets, preventing moisture and ensuring lower energy bills for years. Despite that, it is recommended to frequently monitor the condition to maintain the effectiveness of the mortar.
Key practices for long-lasting brick pointing:
Following are the key practices of long-lasting and cost-efficient methods to reduce energy costs.
- Make use of premium quality mortars with smart methods.
- Apply an extra coat of sealing to avoid moisture damage.
- Wash brick surfaces to keep them cool in summer.
A secret to reduce energy bills
Brick-pointing is a budget-friendly and smart investment for saving and reducing energy costs. Brick-pointing can result in long-term energy savings. Be it a commercial property or residential property, brick pointing can reduce energy consumption by more than half with indoor comfort and durability of the structure. You can check your energy usage by maintaining masonry inspections.
Sardar Restoration Corp proudly serves every corner of NYC, including the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, and Queens. Our services are designed to meet your specific needs, providing top-quality solutions wherever you are. Check our service areas to see how we can assist you in your location.
Contact us today at (+1) 917-355-8556 or sardarrestoration@gmail.com, or Visit us at 2770 Fish Ave, Bronx, NY 10469, United States.
FAQs
How much energy can we save through brick pointing?
The amount of energy saved relies upon the degree of damage that had been caused before repointing. Properly sealed masonry can cut the costs of heating and cooling by 20-30% by improving insulation and preventing air leaks.
Find out more about the cost of brick pointing.
How frequently should brick pointing be done for energy efficiency?
Brick pointing lasts around 25-30 years, yet properties in harsh environments might require brick repointing in 10-20 years. To determine the right timing for brick pointing, regular inspections must be done.
Is brick pointing effective in all climates?
Yes. In cold climates, it holds heat by sealing air leaks, reducing heating expenses. In hot climates, it prevents unnecessary heat absorption, bringing down cooling costs.
Learn about the environmental factors that affect brick-pointing.
Is brick pointing an eco-friendly solution?
Yes. Brick Pointing is a sustainable solution as it improves energy efficiency by reducing unnecessary energy consumption, wastage, and the need for frequent fixes.
Learn how brick pointing is done.
