What happens to masonry blocks…
There are plenty of reasons why a CMU block (concrete masonry unit), also referred to as a concrete block, wall may need to be repaired. Most of the time, these walls deteriorate due to weather. Over time, you may find that your CMU blocks are cracked if not crumbling or breaking. At CTC Masonry, we provide professional concrete block repair services to repair or replace blocks and fill cracks to prevent further damage. We provide our exceptional block wall repair in Chicago, Illinois, and the surrounding suburbs.
Cracked CMU Block
If the mortar between concrete blocks appears to be cracked, we can easily perform a CMU wall repair. Using a machine grinder in combination with a dust control vacuum, we grind out the damaged mortar to the solid bed joint and then fill it with new mortar.
Bulging CMU Blocks
Bricks in your CMU block wall may bulge due to moisture seeping in behind the masonry. This moisture can push or pull the bricks, creating a bulge. Bulging bricks are common in areas that experience freeze-thaw cycles. We’ll perform the concrete block repair by removing the problem bricks, repairing the moisture damage, and putting the bricks back in place.
Replacing a CMU Block
Sometimes concrete block repair isn’t enough. Replacing the CMU block is necessary when the block itself is chipped, deteriorated, or damaged to the point where tuck-pointing cannot fully restore the structural integrity of the wall. To replace a defective concrete block, our skilled contractors will cut out the deteriorated or spalling block and replace it with a new one that matches the existing units.
Causes of Masonry Damage
Understanding what damages your masonry can help you catch issues early, preserving its life and beauty. The following are some common issues that can cause concrete block and wall damage:
- Moisture: Rain, snowmelt, and other forms of moisture are threats to the appearance and structural integrity of your masonry. We provide waterproofing services to help prevent water damage before it starts.
- Vegetation: Vegetation that eases its way behind or into the cracks and crevices of bricks can cause serious damage. Removing vegetation and its roots is essential before performing the CMU crack repair.
- Freeze and thaw cycles: Freeze and thaw cycles cause moisture behind bricks to expand and retract.
- Lack of maintenance: Properly maintaining your masonry can help prevent costly repairs down the road. An annual inspection by a concrete block wall repair expert can help identify issues and address them early.
- Incorrect repairs: Concrete block repair is rarely a do-it-yourself project, and incorrect repairs can cause more significant problems. Hire experts for any masonry block wall repair at your home or business.
Causes of Masonry Damage
Coast to Coast Masonry is the unrivaled choice for block wall repair in Chicago. For 22 years, we’ve offered the most skilled and professional masonry repairs. We’re fully licensed, bonded, insured, and accredited by the BBB. As a family-owned business, we understand the importance of performing quality repairs at prices that fit your budget.