8 Steps to Expert Parapet Wall Repairs in Chicago

Parapet wall repairs are particularly important in Chicago due to the city’s history and architecture. Repairing a damaged parapet wall typically involves several steps, which may vary depending on the extent of the damage and the materials used in the construction of the wall. Chicago has a long tradition of tall buildings, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when skyscrapers began to rise in the city.

Here’s a general outline of the process:

1. Assessment of Damage: Before beginning any parapet wall repairs, thoroughly inspect the parapet wall to determine the extent of the damage. Look for cracks, crumbling masonry, loose bricks or stones, water damage, and any other signs of deterioration.
2. Safety Precautions: Ensure proper safety measures are in place before starting parapet wall repairs. This may include wearing protective gear such as gloves, safety goggles, and a hard hat, as well as using scaffolding or other support structures to safely access the damaged area.
3. Cleaning and Preparation: Clean the damaged area of the parapet wall to remove any loose debris, dirt, or vegetation. Use a wire brush or pressure washer to scrub away dirt and grime, and remove any loose mortar or damaged bricks or stones.
4. Repairing Cracks and Holes: For expert parapet wall repairs, if there are any cracks or holes in the parapet wall, they will need to be filled and patched. Use a suitable masonry repair mortar or cement mix to fill in the damaged areas, following the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and application. Make sure to fill the cracks or holes completely and smooth the surface with a trowel.
5. Replacing Damaged Bricks or Stones: If any bricks or stones in the parapet wall are cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged beyond repair, they will need to be replaced. Carefully remove the damaged bricks or stones and replace them with new ones of a similar size and style. Use mortar to secure the new bricks or stones in place, ensuring they are level and aligned with the surrounding masonry.
6. Repointing Mortar Joints: Over time, the mortar joints between bricks or stones can deteriorate and weaken. Repointing involves removing deteriorated mortar and replacing it with fresh mortar to strengthen the wall. Use a chisel or joint raker to carefully remove old mortar, taking care not to damage the surrounding masonry. Once the old mortar is removed, fill the joints with fresh mortar using a pointing trowel, and smooth the surface to match the existing mortar joints.
7. Waterproofing and Sealing: To prevent future damage from water infiltration, it’s important to waterproof the repaired parapet wall. Apply a suitable waterproofing sealer or coating to the surface of the wall, following the manufacturer’s instructions for application. This will help protect the masonry from water damage and prolong the life of the repair.
8. Finishing Touches: Once the parapet wall repairs are complete and any sealant or waterproofing has dried, inspect the parapet wall to ensure that everything is in good condition. Clean up any debris or leftover materials, and make any final adjustments as needed to ensure the wall is structurally sound and visually appealing.

By following these steps, you can effectively repair a damaged parapet wall and restore it to its original condition, ensuring long-lasting durability and structural integrity.

Parapet walls play a significant role in the urban fabric of Chicago, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes while contributing to the city’s unique architectural identity.

FocalPoint Masonry are expert masonry contractors who specialize in parapet wall repairs as well as tuckpointing, chimney repair, steel lintel replacement, caulking and so much more.

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