Completely Re-Bricking a House: A Comprehensive Guide
Do you need to re-brick your entire house? This is a common question when a structure is old and has faced significant wear and tear due to external factors, such as heavy rains, floods, or simple deterioration over many years. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how and when to re-brick a house.
The Need for Re-Bricking
Re-bricking becomes necessary for structures that are around 60 years old or more, especially when maintenance has been neglected. These older buildings often suffer from deteriorating outer surfaces that need urgent attention. Here, we focus on load-bearing structures, where only the peripheral walls are to be re-bricked.
Understanding Load-Bearing Structures
Inload-bearing structures, walls are crucial for the integrity of the building. Re-bricking such structures must be approached with caution. The process involves complex steps, including underpinning the floor slab to support the re-bricking work. This requires careful planning and the expertise of a Structural Engineer to ensure the safety and stability of the building.
The Process of Re-Bricking
Re-bricking entire walls is not recommended in load-bearing structures. However, if a decision to proceed is made, it involves a series of steps:
Underpinning Slab Support
Underpinning the slab is necessary to provide support during the re-bricking process. This can be done where the re-bricking is required, provided there is access on both sides of the wall. This method can also allow for changes to the building's foundation or plinth levels.
Engagement of a Structural Engineer
It is crucial to engage a qualified Structural Engineer who can guide both the client and the contractor through this process. Underpinning and shoring can be complex, and the costs are typically borne by the client. The involvement of an engineer is not just a recommendation but a necessity to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the building.
Partial Re-Bricking in Non-Load-Bearing Walls
For non-load-bearing walls, re-bricking becomes more straightforward. If the walls are RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) framed, they are typically filler walls that transfer their load to columns and beams. This means that complete removal or re-bricking of these walls is possible without compromising the overall structure.
Common Issues and Solutions
External surfaces of bricks often show signs of damage such as weathering or cracking. These can be addressed through methods such as cement plastering, where only half the width of bricks in different patches may need to be removed and replaced. This partial re-bricking can significantly enhance the aesthetic and structural performance of the building.
Cost Considerations
The cost of re-bricking can vary significantly based on the type of structure and the extent of the work required. In load-bearing structures, the cost involves underpinning, structural engineering, and potential changes to the building's foundation. For non-load-bearing RCC walls, the cost is more manageable, as the walls are essentially filler walls.
For those considering re-bricking, it's important to assess the condition of the building and seek professional advice. The decision to re-brick should be based on thorough analysis of the building's structural integrity and the feasibility of the work.
Conclusion
Re-bricking a house, especially a load-bearing structure, is a complex process that requires careful planning and the expertise of professionals. Whether you are dealing with load-bearing or non-load-bearing walls, understanding the process, engaging the right professionals, and considering the costs are crucial steps in ensuring a successful and safe re-bricking project.