Replacing Brick below Damp Proof Course?

paperclap

Hi all,

I've one brick on an exterior corner wall that has cracked. Directly next to a previously leaking downpipe, so, that was probably part of the cause.

Anywho, what is the best procedure to replace? It is a "simple" case of chiselling out the surrounding mortar with a chisel and hammer? Then, replacing with a new engineering brick and 4:1 mortar mix?

If the old bitumen damp course above is damaged, it is best to simply replace with a sliver of the new style damp course? Overlap might be a challenge though.

Thoughts?

Thanks!

stuart45

I'd be tempted.to leave it, but if you want it replaced a plugging chisel is the best. Looks like the DPC is the course above. Can be tricky to get an overlap when the DPC is starting to get brittle.

plumb1_2

I too would be tempted to leave it, but would drill out the mortar joints with a masonry but.

paperclap

Well I’m more than happy to leave it as is - less work for me!

But, isn’t a cracked brick doing more harm than good?

stuart45

You could stick some clear silicone in to stop any water getting on and freezing. 

paperclap

stuart45 said:

You could stick some clear silicone in to stop any water getting on and freezing. 

Well, we live in the South East so very little chance of getting that cold!

Just concerned that water is constantly getting to it, underneath it, behind it, etc.

You can see its damp, as there’s a weed growing out the bottom!