With the warmer weather comes the desire to get outside and prep your property for spring and summer. From hosting barbecues to lounging by the pool, your patio gets a lot of action. The winter can add a lot of wear and tear on the bricks, which can pose safety and aesthetics issues come patio season.
Here are some tips on assessing damage, cleaning, and prepping your brick patio for the warmer months ahead. Don’t forget to call your trusted brick restoration experts in Oakland County and beyond. Some of these tasks you can easily do yourself, such as performing visual inspections and cleaning your brick patio, but other tasks are best left up to the professionals who bring 20 years of experience to brick repair.
Inspect For Damage
Before tackling any restoration work, start by inspecting your patio carefully. Look for cracks or gaps in the mortar joints, which may have been caused by the freezing and thawing process over the winter. Check each brick for signs of chipping, cracking, or shifting, paying particular attention to areas near the edges and corners. These areas are more prone to damage.
If you spot a lot of damage to the bricks, you may need to replace them. Luckily, bricks are fairly easy to remove and replace, but it’s important to match the new bricks and mortar with the existing ones for a seamless look. Here at Mortar City Masonry, we specialize in color-matched mortar to blend in seamlessly with what you already have.
Clean Your Patio
After a long winter, your brick patio is likely covered with dirt, grime, and debris. Cleaning your patio is the first real step in the restoration process.
- Sweep away leaves, twigs, and any other debris that may have accumulated.
- Use a pressure washer or hose to rinse off any dirt and stubborn stains.
- For mold or mildew stains, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to the affected areas. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing with a stiff brush, which breaks down the mildew and makes it easier to remove.
- For heavy dirt buildup, make a mixture of dish soap and water and use it to scrub the bricks. Stay away from harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the bricks and the surrounding landscaping.
Repoint the Mortar Joints
Over time, the mortar joints between the bricks may start to deteriorate due to weathering. Repointing is the process of replacing old, crumbling mortar with fresh mortar, which helps to maintain the structural integrity of your patio, especially after the expansion and contraction caused by Michigan’s freezing temperatures.
This specialty service is best left up to your trusted brick repair contractors in Northville.
Level and Reset Shifting Bricks
Over the winter months, some bricks can shift or become uneven. You’ll need to reset them to maintain a safe and level surface. Gently lift the bricks that have shifted, checking the base underneath for any debris or sunken spots. Add more sand or gravel if necessary, then reset the bricks. Check to ensure they are level with the rest of the patio.
Seal the Patio
Now it’s time to apply a sealant for year-round protection. This protects your patio from water damage, stains, and the effects of UV rays. Use a sealant designed for outdoor brick surfaces, applying a thin, even coat to the entire surface with a roller or sprayer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, giving the sealant enough time to dry completely before using the patio.
By following the above steps, you will be able to enjoy a beautiful and durable patio that’s ready to handle all your spring gatherings and summer barbecues!
Contact Mortar City Masonry
For help restoring your brick patio in Macomb County and surrounding areas, consult with our experienced contractors today at 586-533-1305 and get a free quote.
