Brick Restoration in Chicago

At Marion Restoration, we understand that Chicago is much more than its iconic steel and glass skyline. Beneath the towering architecture lies a storied tradition of brick construction, from the rugged charm of Chicago Common Brick to the intricate facades of historic masonry buildings. These bricks, crafted from local clay and shaped by skilled hands, carry the legacy of a city rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1871.

As environmental conditions, urban development, and improper restoration threaten these structures’ structural and aesthetic integrity, brick restoration becomes essential. Here, we explore the unique characteristics of Chicago’s bricks, the challenges of their preservation, and the best practices that guide our restoration work.

Chicago Common Brick is a hallmark of the city’s historic architecture. Formed from local clay deposits near the Chicago River, these bricks feature a rough texture and varied colors, including buff yellow, salmon pink, and deep red. Their distinct appearance, characterized by “flashpoints” (discolorations caused during firing), reflects the practical yet imperfect firing methods of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

This uniqueness presents both a challenge and an opportunity during restoration, as no two batches of Chicago Common Brick are exactly the same.

Restoring historic brickwork in Chicago requires addressing several environmental and urban challenges:

1. Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Chicago’s harsh winters cause bricks to absorb moisture, leading to cracking and spalling as water freezes and expands.
2. Pollution and Urban Development: Soot, grime, and vibrations from construction accelerate wear on brick facades.

Material Scarcity: With the closure of Chicago Common Brick manufacturers in 1981, sourcing authentic replacements has become increasingly difficult.

Successful restoration requires a deep understanding of local brick types and their compatibility with repair materials. Using mismatched bricks or incorrect mortar not only detracts from a building’s visual appeal but can also cause structural issues.

Common Issues in Historic Brick Restoration

1. Spalling and Surface Erosion: Freeze-thaw cycles and prolonged exposure to the elements cause bricks to flake and erode.
2. Mortar Deterioration: Mortar joints are essential for structural integrity, but over time, they can deteriorate, particularly when repairs have used subpar materials.
3. Cracking and Weaknesses: Structural cracks can result from settlement, weather conditions, or previous repairs that failed to address underlying issues.
4. Discoloration and Staining: Pollution, biological growth, and efflorescence (salt deposits) often lead to unsightly discoloration.

The Risks of Improper Restoration

• Non-Breathable Paint Coatings: Trapping moisture within brick walls accelerates deterioration.
• Inappropriate Techniques: Aggressive joint cutting, cement mortar applications, and mismatched materials can weaken historic bricks and disrupt visual harmony.
• Mismatched Brick Replacement: Using modern or incompatible bricks undermines both the aesthetic and structural continuity of a building.

At Marion Restoration, we address these challenges with expertise and precision. Our process begins with a detailed assessment to understand the building’s unique needs, ensuring every intervention is tailored to preserve its historic integrity.

A recent project at N. Seminary Ave. Chicago, IL highlights our approach. Marion Restoration was tasked with repointing a wall of Chicago Common Brick that had suffered from mortar erosion and surface damage. Using a custom lime-based mortar, we carefully matched the original material in both composition and color. This breathable mortar allowed moisture to escape, preventing further brick damage.

Throughout the project, we paid close attention to detail, preserving the natural patina of the bricks and avoiding excessive joint cutting that could compromise their integrity. The result was a restored wall that remained true to its original craftsmanship while ensuring long-term durability.

Chicago’s historic brick buildings are more than just structures—they are a testament to resilience, craftsmanship, and a rich architectural heritage. At Marion Restoration, we are committed to preserving these treasures through meticulous attention to detail and adherence to best practices.

By combining traditional methods with modern expertise, we ensure that Chicago’s brick architecture continues to inspire for generations to come. If your historic property requires restoration, trust Marion Restoration to bring expertise and care to your project. Contact us today to learn how we can help preserve your building’s legacy.