London's Rich Architectural Heritage
London, Ontario boasts a wealth of historic homes, from Victorian beauties in Wortley Village to Edwardian gems in Old North. While these homes offer character and craftsmanship rarely found in newer construction, they also present unique masonry challenges that require specialized knowledge to address.
Deteriorating Mortar Joints
Perhaps the most common issue we encounter in older London homes is mortar deterioration:
- Many homes built before 1930 used lime-based mortar rather than modern Portland cement
- This historic mortar naturally deteriorates after 75-100 years of exposure
- Improper repairs using modern mortar can accelerate brick damage
- Signs include crumbling mortar, recessed joints, and loose bricks
- Solution: Proper tuckpointing with historically appropriate mortar formulations
Yellow Brick Deterioration
London's distinctive yellow brick homes face specific challenges:
- Yellow clay brick is softer and more porous than modern red brick
- These bricks are particularly vulnerable to freeze-thaw damage
- Many have survived 100+ years but now show significant deterioration
- Signs include spalling (flaking), crumbling surfaces, and brick faces falling off
- Solution: Careful brick replacement with salvaged yellow brick or custom-matched replacements
Foundation Issues
Many historic London homes have rubble or fieldstone foundations:
- These foundations lack the waterproofing of modern construction
- Original lime mortar often deteriorates in below-grade applications
- Shifting and settling over decades creates structural weaknesses
- Signs include bulging walls, diagonal cracks, and water infiltration
- Solution: Foundation repointing, structural reinforcement, and modern drainage solutions
Chimney Deterioration
Historic chimneys are particularly vulnerable to damage:
- Exposure to the elements from all sides accelerates deterioration
- Many older chimneys lack proper caps and flashing
- Freeze-thaw cycles cause expansion and contraction
- Signs include leaning chimneys, loose bricks, and damaged crowns
- Solution: Comprehensive chimney rebuilding with proper waterproofing details
Previous Improper Repairs
Unfortunately, many historic homes have suffered from well-intentioned but damaging repairs:
- Use of Portland cement mortar on soft historic brick
- Painting or sealing brick that needs to "breathe"
- Covering brick with siding or stucco, trapping moisture
- Grinding out mortar joints too deeply, weakening walls
- Solution: Remediation of improper repairs and restoration using appropriate materials
The 519 Trough & Exterior Approach to Historic Masonry
Our team specializes in the unique challenges of London's historic homes. We combine traditional masonry techniques with modern knowledge to preserve the character and integrity of your home while ensuring its structural soundness for generations to come.
Contact us for a heritage-sensitive assessment of your older London home's masonry needs.