Brick sealer is a protective coating that prevents moisture from damaging exterior brick surfaces. Moisture can cause cracking, splitting, and mold growth. Installers apply the sealer using basic painting techniques after cleaning and priming the surface. Homeowners should wear a mask when applying and wait for it to dry before painting.
Brick sealer is a protective coating applied to exterior brick surfaces, such as fireplaces, walls, or patios. Because brick is made primarily of natural clay, it tends to have a highly porous surface. Because moisture seeps into the brick over time, it can cause damage from freezing or temperature changes. Brick sealer keeps water out and prevents cracks and other signs of damage, which not only affect the appearance of a home, but could potentially affect its structural integrity.
Moisture that contributes to brick damage comes from a variety of sources. Rain may seep into the brick, or the brick may be drawing natural moisture out of the humid air. Condensation or air conditioning leaks can penetrate the brick from inside or outside the house. Clogged or faulty gutters can also allow rainwater to run down the walls of the house, exposing the bricks to high levels of humidity.
Once moisture enters the brick, it can cause the brick to expand and contract due to natural cycles of freeze and thaw throughout the year. This expansion and contraction puts pressure on the brick which leads to cracking and splitting. Unwanted moisture can also pass through the brick and enter the home’s wood frame structure, leading to rot and mold. This type of unseen water damage shortens the life of the structure and can contribute to unhealthy mold growth within the walls of your home.
Installers apply brick sealer using basic painting techniques. Brick veneer typically comes with a clear finish, which can be brushed or rolled over the surface of the brick and mortar. A paint sprayer helps speed up the brick waterproofing process for larger structures.
Some paints and primers contain brick sealer, while others do not. Homeowners planning to paint brick should first apply a brick sealer and wait for it to dry before painting or priming. It’s also helpful to wear a mask or respirator when applying brick sealer, particularly when using a paint sprayer.
Existing brick surfaces must be cleaned and primed before brick sealant can be applied successfully. Dirt and grime can be removed with a power or pressure washer. Bleach may be needed to kill mold or mildew and to prevent it from growing back once the sealant has been applied. White streaks of calcium or salt on brick, known as efflorescence, can be removed by hand scrubbing or using a pressure washer.
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