Replacing Brick below Damp Proof Course?

paperclap
paperclap Posts: 776 Forumite
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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!


Comments

  • stuart45
    stuart45 Posts: 4,753 Forumite
    Sixth Anniversary 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    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
    plumb1_2 Posts: 4,395 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Photogenic Name Dropper
    I too would be tempted to leave it, but would drill out the mortar joints with a masonry but.
  • paperclap
    paperclap Posts: 776 Forumite
    Fourth Anniversary 500 Posts Name Dropper
    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
    stuart45 Posts: 4,753 Forumite
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    You could stick some clear silicone in to stop any water getting on and freezing. 
  • paperclap
    paperclap Posts: 776 Forumite
    Fourth Anniversary 500 Posts Name Dropper
    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!
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