Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 10/21/2010

Question
QUESTION: We want to brick a section of the home that does not currently have brick.  We have 8' poured concrete foundation walls.  One contractor says we need to dig down to the foundation and build up to support the brick.  The other one said he could use an angle iron bolted to the current foundation.  The second one seems like a bad idea on many counts.

We live in SE Michigan.  I really want the brick but want it to be done right.  Thanks.

ANSWER: Hi Susan, digging down to the existing footer is the best method.  Next would be to drill and epoxy rebar into the existing foundation wall and pour an attached footing at a higher elevation say 8" below grade, install one course of masonry to bring it to grade and then start your brick. The angle iron will work but it would have to be hot dipped galvanized and pre drilled prior to galvanization and installed with galvanized fasteners.  Otherwise it will eventually rot away leaving the brick unsupported.  I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com

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QUESTION: Thanks, Bruce.  That is very helpful.  We are also considering the Tru-Brix system by Redland Brick where no brick ledge is necessary. Here is a short summary from tru-brix.com: "Tru-Brix® is a revolutionary thin brick siding system that can be installed over virtually any surface and is designed to replace vinyl siding, wood siding, or aluminum siding. The Tru-Brix system doesn't rely on adhesives like some other brick siding systems; instead, the brick are held in place by steel rails which form a permanent mechanical bond."  Are you familiar with this type of system?  The bricks are not actually adhered to the walls but only to the steel rails.

Also, with the angle iron system, do you need inside access to the wall because that part of the basement is finished as a home theater and my husband would never agree to tearing into drywall in there :-)

Answer
Hi again Susan, I have seen similar siding systems to the one you describe tru-brix, and I'm sure they are fine and hopefully come with a decent warranty period.  As far as the angle goes, the need to penetrate the basement wall completely shouldn't be necessary with the fasteners available in today's construction market.   I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com