Des Moines Brickwork Brigade

EXPERT MASONRY RESTORATION AND BRICK REPAIR CONTRACTOR

Brick Repair and Masonry restoration in DES MOINES

If your home or building is showing signs of cracked bricks, deteriorating mortar, or shifting walls, it’s time to look into brick repair in Des Moines. At Des Moines Brickwork Brigade, we specialize in structural masonry restoration built for Iowa’s rough weather and aging housing stock. Whether you need a full wall rebuilt or just a handful of cracked bricks replaced, we get the job done right—with precision and care.

From targeted repairs to full-scale restoration, we bring the experience and skill to make your masonry strong again—and keep it that way. Whether it’s minor surface damage or decades of wear, we restore Des Moines brickwork one joint at a time.

MASONRY CONTRACTOR IN DES MOINES

What We Repair

Cracked or Spalling Bricks
In Iowa’s climate, repeated freeze-thaw cycles and moisture exposure cause bricks to crack, chip, or flake—a process known as spalling. If ignored, spalled bricks can compromise the wall’s integrity and allow water to seep in deeper. We carefully remove the damaged units and replace them with new ones that match your original brick as closely as possible.

Bulging or Bowing Walls
If your wall is bulging out or pulling away, that’s a serious structural red flag. It’s often caused by prolonged moisture damage, failing mortar, or compromised support behind the brickwork. We inspect the issue thoroughly, stabilize the structure, and rebuild the affected section to restore strength and prevent collapse.

Gaps in Mortar Joints
Mortar joints don’t last forever. They crack, shrink, or wash out—especially with Des Moines’ freeze cycles. When mortar fails, bricks loosen and water finds a way in. We grind out the old mortar and repoint the joints using a new mix that matches the original in strength, color, and texture.

Water Damage Around Doors and Windows
These areas are some of the first to break down. We often find cracked lintels, deteriorated sills, and water-soaked bricks. Our team replaces damaged units and seals vulnerable areas to stop moisture from spreading and causing further deterioration.

Surface Staining and Cosmetic Wear
Smoke, mildew, and pollution can leave even structurally sound brickwork looking aged and streaked. Our restoration process includes gentle, professional cleaning—and where needed, color-matched tuckpointing or staining—to bring your masonry back to life without damaging the surface.

Settling-Related Cracking
Shifting soil and foundation movement often show up as stair-step or diagonal cracks in the brick. We determine whether the issue is active or historical, repair the visible damage, and refer structural work if needed to prevent future problems.

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How We Repair Brickwork the Right Way

Brick repair and masonry restoration aren’t just about filling gaps and calling it good. If the work’s rushed, mismatched, or done without understanding how the wall is built, it can cause bigger problems down the road. We don’t take shortcuts—here’s how we do it right in Des Moines:


1. Full Site Inspection
We don’t just look at what’s broken—we look at why it broke. That means checking mortar condition, surrounding drainage, wall alignment, and any signs of settling or movement. A solid fix starts with understanding the full picture.


2. Careful Demolition
Damaged bricks are cut out with precision using dust-controlled tools. We protect the surrounding masonry, avoid unnecessary disturbance, and prep the area cleanly for repair—no hammers swinging wild.


3. Brick Matching
We do our best to match the original brick in color, size, and texture. For older homes in neighborhoods like Beaverdale or Sherman Hill, we’ll walk you through the closest available options when an exact match isn’t possible—so your wall looks natural, not patched.


4. Rebuild and Repoint
New bricks are laid with care, and joints are repointed with mortar that blends with the original and meets modern durability standards. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about building something that lasts through Iowa winters.


5. Final Cleanup and Finish
Once the repair is complete, we clean up the work area and offer optional sealing or tinting if needed. The final result should blend so well you forget it was ever damaged in the first place.


That’s the difference between a patch job and professional brick restoration—and it’s what we bring to every project in Des Moines.

What’s the difference between brick repair and masonry restoration?

Brick repair focuses on fixing specific issues like cracked or chipped bricks and deteriorated mortar joints. Masonry restoration, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive process that addresses widespread damage or aging. Restoration can include repointing, replacing bricks, cleaning, and even structural reinforcement. In Des Moines, many older homes benefit from a full restoration to preserve their historic charm and stability.

How do I know if my home needs brick repair or restoration?

Look for signs like crumbling mortar, loose or spalling bricks, water damage, or bowing walls. Small cracks or missing mortar can usually be fixed with basic repairs. However, if the damage is extensive or your home is historic, a full masonry restoration might be necessary to maintain both the structure and appearance.

Why is masonry restoration important in Des Moines?

Our Iowa climate—especially the freeze-thaw cycles—can wreak havoc on brickwork. Moisture gets into small cracks, freezes, and expands, causing even more damage. Restoration ensures your walls are watertight, structurally sound, and visually appealing. It’s the best way to preserve your home’s value and integrity.

How much does brick repair or restoration cost in Des Moines?

Costs can vary depending on the extent of the damage, the size of the area, and the type of materials used. Spot repairs are usually more affordable, while a full restoration is a bigger investment but offers long-term protection. We provide free, no-obligation estimates so you can make an informed decision.

Can I do brick repair myself?

While minor fixes like cleaning small cracks might seem doable, proper brick repair and restoration require specialized tools and knowledge. DIY repairs can actually make the problem worse if done incorrectly, leading to bigger issues down the line. For lasting results, it’s best to hire a professional mason.

How long does a brick repair or restoration project take?

Most spot repairs can be done in a day or two. A full masonry restoration project, depending on the size and severity of the damage, might take a week or more. We’ll always provide a timeline upfront so you know what to expect.

Is it worth investing in masonry restoration?

Absolutely. A well-executed restoration not only improves the look of your home but also prevents future damage, saving you money in the long run. Plus, it enhances your property’s curb appeal and resale value.

DES MOINES BRICKWORK BRIGADE MASONRY SERVICES

Let’s Fix It Before It Gets Worse

Small cracks can turn into major problems if ignored—especially with Iowa’s freeze-thaw cycles and shifting soil. Whether you’re dealing with a few damaged bricks or a wall that’s clearly starting to fail, we’ll get it sorted quickly and done right.

Give us a call to schedule an estimate, or send us a photo using the contact form. We’ll review the damage, walk you through your options, and offer a clear, pressure-free plan to fix it.

Ready to get that brickwork handled? Reach out today for professional brick repair in Des Moines—fast, honest, and built to last.