PSA: Watch out for new brick batches that don't weather like the old local ones

I keep fixing walls where bricks from a couple decades back look great, but fresh builds show face cracks after one season. Back then, our area yards took time with the clay mix, so bricks stayed tough through rain and cold. Now, a lot of supply comes from fast production lines, and the material just doesn't bind the same. If you're stocking up, get a few bricks wet and freeze them to see how they hold before you lay a whole course.

3 comments

3 Comments

robin_lee1mo ago

Ever think the problem could be the application and not just the bricks? I've seen plenty of new builds hold up just fine when the mortar and install are right. What mix are you using for your repairs?

nancy_sanchez1mo ago

Totally agree on the application part. My go-to is a 3:1 sand and cement mix with a plasticizer, it really helps.

fisher.grant26d ago

Yeah, that exact mix saved my patio last summer.