Brick homes are often assumed to be low maintenance and problem free. When cracks appear, mortar starts to crumble, or white stains show up on the surface, most homeowners are left guessing. Is this normal aging, or the beginning of a serious problem?
This book was written to remove that guesswork.
Brick and Masonry Repair for Homeowners explains how brick actually behaves over time, why problems develop, and how to tell the difference between minor issues and conditions that deserve attention. It avoids fear-based advice and product driven recommendations, focusing instead on clear explanations and real world examples.
Throughout the book, you'll find numerous photographs showing common brick types, mortar joints, moisture clues, typical failures, and before-and-after repair conditions. These photos are arranged in practical reference layouts so you can compare what you see in the book to what you see on your own home.
Inside, you'll learn:
How to recognize different brick and mortar types
What cracks, stains, and surface changes usually indicate
Why moisture is behind most brick problems
Which cleaning and repair methods cause long-term damage
What normal aging looks like versus true failure
When repairs are necessary and when they can wait
This book is written for homeowners, not contractors or engineers. Technical language is kept to a minimum, explanations are straightforward, and the goal is understanding, not alarm.
Whether you're maintaining a brick home, evaluating a property, or trying to decide if a repair estimate makes sense, this book gives you the clarity and photographic examples needed to make smarter decisions and avoid unnecessary repairs.
If you've ever looked at your brickwork and wondered what was really going on, this book was written to help you see it clearly.