Problems with old brick cladding often first become apparent on the surface of the facade: the bricks crumble, the mortar joints weaken, and individual bricks come loose. However, visible damage is often a symptom of a broader structural problem.
When moisture that has penetrated behind the brick cladding cannot escape effectively enough, the structure begins to deteriorate over time. At worst, this results in a safety hazard caused by falling bricks, reduced energy efficiency of the building, and moisture damage spreading from the facade deeper into the structure.
Insufficient ventilation gap between the brick cladding and the insulation
A common challenge in older brick buildings is an insufficient ventilation gap between the brick cladding and the insulation. When air does not circulate sufficiently within the structure, moisture does not escape as intended, which can result in widespread structural problems.
When moisture remains trapped in the structure, Finland’s fluctuating conditions exacerbate the problem. Water freezes and thaws repeatedly, which puts stress on the entire brick, causing deterioration, cracks, and surface spalling. Falling pieces of brick pose a safety risk to building occupants and passersby.
Insulation that remains damp has a significant impact on its insulating performance. Even 5% moisture in mineral insulation can reduce its effectiveness by up to 50%. In addition, damp insulation fosters microbial growth, which in the worst-case scenario can lead to moisture and water penetrating as far as the interior structures, causing mold damage, for example, and thereby compromising the safety of the building. In such cases, the need for repairs is no longer limited to the appearance of the facade, but extends to the building’s technical functionality, comfort of use, and long-term durability.
How can problems with old brick cladding be solved?
A viable solution isn’t achieved simply by replacing individual bricks; rather, it is essential to choose a repair solution that addresses the structural causes that originally led to the problems. One of the most important features of BRIX brick cladding is its ventilation, which ensures a healthy facade for decades.
At the same time, thanks to its slim profile, the building’s energy efficiency can be significantly improved, as up to twice as much insulation can be added to the facade. This adds value to the renovation, as the project not only improves the building’s appearance but also its technical performance. This results in a durable and long-lasting facade with minimal lifecycle costs while preserving the original architecture.
Watch this video about problems with old brick walls and how to fix them:
Quick installation reduces construction time
Another advantage of BRIX in facade renovation is the speed of installation. Since the brick cladding is manufactured in a factory using standardized modules, its installation on-site is significantly faster than with traditional renovation methods, and it can be carried out in any weather, even in winter.
The main steps of the installation are straightforward:
- The old brick cladding and insulation will be removed
- Attach the BRIX system frame
- New insulation and wind barrier panels will be installed
- Prefabricated brick panels are installed in the BRIX system
- grout the joints between the brick tiles
- Let’s trim the window sills and other details
Quick and controlled installation shortens construction time, minimizes disruption on-site, and makes the facade renovation a smoother process for building occupants as well.
The result is a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance facade that will last for decades.
