Laying Bricks in Cold Weather

Moments after a masonry expert begins laying bricks in Racine, WI in the dead of winter, the curing process begins. Under ideal conditions, the mortar that holds the brick together will stay hydrated long enough for the bricks it keeps in place to bond properly. When the temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, however, the mortar that acts as glue during a bricklaying job begins to freeze.

That’s when the problems start. If you’re about to take on the task of laying bricks during the winter, here are some things to keep mind to make sure you get the job done correctly.

Why is curing so important?

You may be amazed at how vital a role heat plays when it comes to masonry work of all kinds. You know hydration is essential in curing, but you may not be aware of how vital curing is. When your mortar gets too cold too quickly, the impact is twofold. First, pockets of air can form within the mortar itself, weakening the structure of the brick and leaving it susceptible to problems much earlier than necessary. The second issue is the prevention of a secure bond between the mortar and the bricks themselves. Either problem can leave your next masonry project vulnerable.

On frozen ground

Your first obstacle when laying bricks in winter is warming the ground. Cold ground can be frozen to the point of rigidity. Hard, unyielding ground can lead to cracks and other structural issues in your work.

So, before you begin your concrete project, lay down a thick ground-thawing blanket on the ground where you’ll be working. This will provide an even layer of heat to your work area, softening the ground and prepping the area for the job to come.

Cold ingredients make for rough work

If you’re dead set on laying bricks in Racine, WI in the winter, consider investing in heated tools that will allow you to preserve vital heat and transfer it to the mortar and brick as you place them both.

If you don’t have the extra cash to invest in tools, then consider finding some way to keep your tools as warm as possible when you’re on the job. Keep them inside when they’re not in use. While you’re working, keep your tools covered. You can also purchase material warmers that allow you to keep your tools in warm spots when they’re not in use.

Your Wisconsin masonry artists

In 1912, Langenfeld Masonry & Concrete opened our doors in the hopes of offering the area’s best contracting services. For more than a century, we’ve stayed committed to that goal, whether it’s winter bricklaying in Racine, WI or installing a new driveway in Kenosha. Foundation pouring, repair, maintenance and more—we do it all.

When you enlist the help of Langenfeld Masonry & Concrete, you’re getting five generations of masonry and concrete expertise that incorporates timeless strategies and cutting-edge methods in one comprehensive package. You can look far and wide, and you’ll be hard pressed to find more talented contractors than our pros. Visit us online or give us a call to schedule an estimate. We can’t wait to hear from you.

Categorised in: Bricks