How to Fix Holes in Brick Foundations

Long-term exposure to the elements can cause the mortar in a brick foundation to fail. Missing mortar leads to air leaks, exposure to moisture and a slow deterioration of the foundation. Replacing mortar is known as "pointing" or "tuck pointing," and is a skill that takes some practice. Still, repairing a few holes in a brick foundation is a project that most homeowners can manage without hiring professionals.

Work gloves
Safety goggles
Hammer
Chisel
Stiff-bristled brush or shop vacuum
Spray bottle
Mortar
Large bucket
Trowels
Brick jointer

Instructions

- 1
  Put on work gloves and eye protection. Chip out loose and crumbling mortar around the hole with a hammer and chisel.
- 2
  Clean surface dust from the area with a shop vacuum or stiff-bristled brush.
- 3
  Mix the mortar according to the manufacturer's directions. The mortar should be mixed to the point where it forms stiff peaks.
- 4
  Wet the area with a few squirts of water from a spray bottle. Wetting the area helps the mortar better adhere to the brick.
- 5
  Scoop out some mortar with a pointed trowel and press it into the hole with the side of the trowel. Avoid trying to pack in a lot of mortar all at once. Add a little mortar at a time, pushing it into the hole by pressing the flat end of the trowel smoothly across the surface. Add more mortar and repeat the process until the hole is thoroughly filled.
- 6
  Scrape off excess mortar with the side of the trowel.
- 7
  Smooth mortar with the end of the trowel or a brick jointer to achieve a neat and professional finish. The mortar should dry in two to three days.

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