How to Replace a Broken Brick
For those who live in brick homes, chances are there will come a point in time when knowing how to replace a broken brick will be a necessity. This holds true especially for people who live in old homes, where bricks may begin to show signs of decay throughout the building. While many people believe they must bring in a professional to handle brick repair, the simple fact is that this is not always necessary. Repairing a broken brick can often be done on one’s own without the need for specialized equipment or materials.
Start by removing the broken brick. Using a hammer and chisel, gently separate the broken brick from those surrounding it by chiseling out the mortar that holds it in place and slowly pulling it out so as not to allow it to crumble into pieces. Use a wet rag to clean out the newly formed opening, removing any bits of stray brick that have remained and moistening the mortar. Run the same rag over the brick you intend to use as a replacement.
Next, apply a small amount of mortar to the bottom and sides of the opening. Carefully slide the brick in, making sure to smear the mortar on each side as little as possible. You may need to apply extra mortar to one of the sides if you notice any gaps, as the brick should be held in seamlessly. Use your rag to clean any excess mortar that may have been smeared before it dries, so as to make the job as neat as possible.
If you have the means, you may wish to wash down the entire wall after replacing the brick, as this will help to ensure that no stains remain from the job. If any stains are particularly hard to remove, you can cover them up by rubbing them with another piece of brick.
