How to Replace a Damaged Brick

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Decide if you can salvage the brick by removing it and turning it around.

   The best option is to look in a hardware store that carries a wide variety of colors. ,, Drill the holes as close together as possible so that you can remove the brick from the mortar around it. , If it doesn't move, use your bolster chisel to cut through the mortar holding the brick in place. , If you’re going to reuse it, place it in a bucket of water. , Remove all the mortar debris from the hole. , Test the color of the mortar by applying a small amount to a piece of cardboard.
   
   The cardboard will absorb the moisture from the mortar quickly and you can determine its final color.
   
   Add mortar coloring to the mortar batch until you get a color match with the existing mortar. ,,,,, If there are any spaces, apply some more mortar and press it in. ,,
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   Step 2: If not

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   Step 3: find a replacement brick that matches the color of the others.

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   Step 4: Soak your new brick in water for an hour before installation.

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   Step 5: Remove the broken brick by drilling a series of holes through the mortar surrounding the brick.

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   Step 6: Try to remove the brick by jiggling it.

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   Step 7: Once the brick is loose

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   Step 8: remove it.

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   Step 9: Use your bolster chisel or cold chisel to clean out any remaining mortar in the gap.

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    Step 10: Mix a small batch of mortar by following the directions on the bag.

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    Step 11: Spray the bricks around the hole with water to prevent them from absorbing moisture from the new mortar and drying it too quickly.

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    Step 12: Spread a thick layer of mortar on the bottom of the hole.

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    Step 13: Remove the replacement brick from the bucket of water and apply mortar to the top and ends of the brick with a sharp trowel.

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    Step 14: Place it in the hole

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    Step 15: pressing it firmly into the mortar bed.

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    Step 16: Align the brick with brick on each side

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    Step 17: ensuring the gaps are consistent.

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    Step 18: Use the handle of the trowel to make the new mortar joint match the joints in the rest of the wall.

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    Step 19: Allow the mortar to dry slowly by spraying it with water a couple of times a day for three or four days.

Detailed Guide

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