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How to Stop Dampness From Penetrating Bricks

The smoky red texture of a brick walkway complements lush green grass or a bed of multicolored flowers. While brick paving adds a rustic touch to any backyard patio or garden, you must maintain it to prevent erosion caused by water and sun exposure. Over time, moisture can penetrate the masonry between the bricks and cause separation, cracking or chipping. Even professionally installed brickwork is susceptible to this type of damage. Treat your brickwork with a concrete sealant regularly to ensure that your brick walkway or structure stands the test of time.

Things You'll Need

  • Hose
  • Mild dish soap
  • Scrub brush
  • Scouring pad
  • Hand broom
  • Safety goggles
  • Rubber gloves
  • Small ladder (optional)
  • Concrete sealant
  • Paint pan
  • Paint roller
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wet the entire brick structure using a garden hose. Scrub the structure clean using a solution of mild dish soap and warm water. A plastic bristled scrub brush will remove most dirt and debris, but you may need a scouring pad for tough stains.

    • 2

      Allow the brick structure to air dry completely. Check that no debris has collected on the brick during this time. Brush any new debris away using a clean hand broom.

    • 3

      Don your safety goggles and rubber gloves to protect yourself from the concrete sealant. Open the container and fill the bottom of a paint pan with sealant.

    • 4

      Dip the paint roller into the sealant and roll it onto the brick structure using a steady up-and-down motion. Use a small ladder if you are applying the sealant to a brick wall. Apply firm pressure to the roller handle to ensure that the brick receives an adequate coat. Continue application until you have coated the entire structure.

    • 5

      Allow the sealant to dry for the time suggested on the container. Apply the sealant annually, or at the intervals listed on the container.