Introduction If your home is old, the most difficult part of replacing a brick will be finding a matching brick. Chip out a piece and take it to a used brick dealer. Also note the face dimensions of the brick; sizes may vary substantially. For the work, you will need mortar, a bricklayer's chisel, a heavy hammer or mallet, a trowel, and a tool for striking mortar joints. When working with the hammer and chisel, protect your eyes with goggles or safety glasses and your chisel hand with a leather work glove.

Upkeep is critical in a brick home to prevent serious damage.

The illustrations in this section show how to replace a full brick. Coat porous bricks (unglazed bricks) with silicone masonry sealer to minimize water absorption and future repairs.

1. Remove the damaged brick Chip out the damaged brick one piece at a time. Remove the old mortar, too. Thoroughly clean out dust and debris from the cavity.
2. Lay fresh mortar Dampen the surrounding bricks to retard water absorption from the mortar, then lay fresh mortar on the bottom and sides of the cavity.
3. Slide brick into place Wet the brick, mortar its top, slide it into place, and pack mortar into the joints. Scrape off excess mortar.
4. Shape the joints Match existing joints with the proper technique. Use a mason's jointer or a piece of pipe.

BHG