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kristinva_gw

Can they do brick in cold weather?

kristinva
14 years ago

We have had a real cold snap here over the last month or so and the builder has been waiting to do the masonry (chimneys, porch supports, and foundation). Tomorrow it is supposed to pass 45 degrees for a high and stay that way a few days, and I think they are planning to start. Will we be okay to do this if the night temps are still in the 30s? We are not using Portland mortar - going with lime. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Comments (6)

  • worthy
    14 years ago

    Not only does the wall have to be heated. But the bricks and water should be heated too before they're laid.

    I watched a neighbour building his 4,400 sf home in deepest winter. At first, the masons carefully tented the areas where they were setting the manmade stone. But, as I concluded, once they realized the "builder" (an electrical contractor) didn't have a clue, they just laid the stone without protection, without heating. Saved them money and time. Within two years, you could walk up to the house and see the mortar full of holes, deteriorated, and shrinking away from the stones.

  • peytonroad
    14 years ago

    I learned the hard way and can see where I did not make my guys tent and heat over the winter. I too am in Va. I can tell where my mortar froze-now it looks a different color in that whole section! I wish I knew now what I didn't know then. ABOSLUTELY make them tent and heat!

  • manhattan42
    14 years ago

    "Can they do brick in cold weather?"

    CAN one do brick in cold weather?
    Certainly.
    Can one do brick WELL in cold weather and guarantee the results?
    Never.

    Which is why seasoned, professional, and smart masons would never think of doing brick in winter....

    Unless they are desperate, have no other jobs going on, and would fail in their businesses if they didn't take that serioius risk...

  • sierraeast
    14 years ago

    "Unless they are desperate, have no other jobs going on, and would fail in their businesses if they didn't take that serioius risk"...

    Classic example of self indulgent contractors looking after their own interests without consideration of a quality, long lasting project,(with the customers interests in mind).

    If the house is tight to the weather with decent underlayment/flashings install, the builder needs to show some patience here. It's what's behind the brick that keeps the wall cavaties dry anyhow, no real reason to take risks with mortar joints failing at this point. Wait for warmer temps consistently well above freezing at night.

  • athensmomof3
    14 years ago

    Gosh I learn so much from this forum!!! This would have never occurred to me. Very good thing to know :)