Building Homes or Extensions/Tearing Down a Brick wall

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Expert: - 11/3/2009


Question
I would like to know if there is an easier way to tear down a brick wall? We are using a masonry chisel and hammer.  We want to reuse the brick on outside projects.  Is there a chemical or something to break down or "soften" the mortar?

Answer
Sherry, there is not a chemical to help.

There are various electric chipping hammers that can be used, but they will break mor bricks than the hand method you are using.  If saving every brick is not important, I would use some mechanical tools.  One method would be to knowck the whole wall down with a tractor or whatever and saving the ones that don't break.

I wish I had some magic wand to make it easier.

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Dan Griffin

Expertise

I can answer almost all questions related to the total construction process. My expertise is in commercial construction, though I can field most any residential question. I have hands on experience in concrete, heavy equipment, masonry, all phases of carpentry, interior finishes, and I am fairly strong in mechanical and electrical.

Experience

I have over 20 years experience as a commercial carpenter and commercial construction superintendent. I have another 20 years experience in facility management for a major school district.

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My favorite hobby for he past 12 years has been singing bass in a The OkChorale men's barbershop chorus and the Mature Moments quartet.

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I hold a Bachelor's degree in English and Math. I have completed many continuing education hours in the building trades. I hold a Master Carpenter card from the AGC, Associated General Contractors.

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