Crumbling mortar that allows water between bricks can erode the structural integrity of masonry. Therefore, once you notice a problem, it is best to fix it immediately. Brick stairs are particularly susceptible to this type of damage because of the potential for standing water to work its way between the bricks. If you live in an area with a freeze-thaw cycle, damage to the brick will be greatly accelerated. If some of the bricks are no longer firmly attached to the steps, you should contact a professional to determine if any structural work must be completed prior to fixing the mortar.
- Skill level:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things you need
- Plugging chisel
- Hammer
- Hose with spray nozzle
- Stiff-bristled hand brush
- Mortar
- Plastic bucket
- Brick trowel
- Tuckpointing tool
- Wheel rake
- Tarp
- Spray bottle
-
1
Remove crumbling mortar using a plugging chisel and hammer, to a depth of at least one inch. If the mortar is still crumbly or damaged after the first inch has been removed, continue removing mortar until you hit a layer that is in good condition.
-
2
Clean the channels between the bricks using a hose with a spray nozzle. Focus on the space between the bricks, but be sure to get the entire step wet. Use a stiff-bristled hand brush to remove any water that is pooling in the channels.
-
3
Mix the mortar with water in a plastic bucket using the proportions recommended by the manufacturer. Allow the mortar to set slightly before continuing. The wait time will vary depending on the type of mortar you use and should be specified by the manufacturer.
-
4
Scoop a small amount of the mixed mortar onto a brick trowel. Holding the trowel in one hand, use a tuckpointing tool to remove a small amount of mortar from the trowel and insert it into the channel between the bricks. Avoid placing mortar on the face of the bricks.
-
5
Continue filling the channels between bricks with mortar until the top of one step is completed. Use a wheel rake to roll over the channels. This tool should form the mortar into a slightly concave shape.
-
6
Sweep the surface of the step using a stiff-bristled brush to remove any bits of mortar that were not firmly pressed into the channels. Sweep in a direction that is diagonal to the space between the bricks to avoid removing an excessive amount of mortar.
-
7
Repeat this process until all of the channels between the bricks are filled with mortar. Work on a step at a time, wetting the steps as necessary to ensure that the bricks are slightly damp while the mortar is installed.
-
8
Cover the steps with a tarp for the next three days to protect them from weather damage. Once a day, remove the tarp and mist the steps with water from a spray bottle. This will ensure that the mortar cures evenly. After three days, the tarp can be removed and the stairs can be used as normal.
Tips and warnings
- Old brick stairs may use a soft lime mortar instead of a cement-based mixture. It is important to match the correct type of mortar to the mortar you will be replacing, to prevent the bricks from cracking. If you are having difficulty determining the age of your steps, contact the local historical society for information on dating bricks and mortar.
