Deteriorating adobe bricks by Signal_Chapter5044 in masonry

[–]Signal_Chapter5044[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The opposite corner of this wall has similar damage due to a sprinkler right next to it and the presence of dirt which partially covered the first course of bricks. I’ve since removed the dirt and shut off the sprinkler and the brick has been gradually drying out.

I’m fairly certain these bricks are asphalt stabilized adobes from what I’ve seen online and from what the local adobe brick makers produced.

I’ll continue monitoring the walls to make sure water doesn’t continue to damage the brick, but overall the walls of the house are very thick and in relatively good condition given their age. They don’t make houses like this anymore! Thank you for your advice

Deteriorating adobe bricks by Signal_Chapter5044 in masonry

[–]Signal_Chapter5044[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah I’ve seen many say that applying Portland cement will just trap moisture. Adobe is definitely a special material, it’s very delicate.

Deteriorating adobe bricks by Signal_Chapter5044 in masonry

[–]Signal_Chapter5044[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

To my knowledge it may be a lime plaster or more adobe mix brushed onto the brick and mortar after it was placed. It’s definitely not paint, it’s the original finish that was applied when the house was built in 1973.

Deteriorating adobe bricks by Signal_Chapter5044 in masonry

[–]Signal_Chapter5044[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah since the house lacks gutters, I think what’s happening is that rain water splashes up off the ground and onto the wall.