Term : Brick Sealing

Brick Sealing, Meaning, Purpose, and Protection

Understanding Brick Sealing

Brick sealing is the process of applying a protective treatment to brickwork to reduce water absorption, staining, and surface contamination. A brick sealer penetrates the surface of the brick and mortar, forming a barrier that helps protect the masonry while maintaining its appearance.

Brick sealing can be used on both traditional brickwork and brick slip installations, depending on the environment and intended use.

Purpose of Brick Sealing

The main purpose of brick sealing is to protect brickwork from moisture and surface damage. While bricks are durable, untreated masonry can absorb water, leading to staining, efflorescence, and long term deterioration.

Key reasons brick sealing is used include:

• Reducing water absorption in bricks and mortar joints.

• Helping prevent staining from dirt, grease, and pollutants.

• Minimising the risk of efflorescence.

• Making brick surfaces easier to clean and maintain.

Brick sealing helps preserve both appearance and performance over time.

Brick Sealing in Traditional Brickwork

In traditional brick construction, sealing is often used on exposed walls, garden walls, and areas subject to heavy weathering. Breathable sealers are typically preferred, as they allow moisture vapour to escape while preventing water ingress.

Sealing is usually applied once brickwork has fully cured and dried to avoid trapping moisture.

Brick Sealing with Brick Slips

Brick sealing is commonly used with brick slips, particularly on external installations and internal feature walls exposed to moisture or heavy use. After brick slips and pointing mortar have fully cured, a suitable sealer can be applied to protect the surface.

Different sealers offer different finishes, ranging from natural matt protection to colour enhancement. Choosing the correct sealer depends on the desired appearance and application environment.

Brick Sealing and Slips from Stock

At Slips from Stock, our brick slips can be sealed using appropriate brick sealing products to enhance durability and ease of maintenance. When applied correctly, brick sealing completes the bricbrick slip system and helps protect the finished wall long term.

Brick sealing is not always essential, but in many situations it is highly beneficial. When used correctly, it extends the life of brickwork, maintains appearance, and reduces ongoing maintenance for both traditional bricks and brick slip installations.