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Exposing Interior Brick Walls by Abigail Sekely
E
xposed interior brick walls are a popular design choice in many historic houses, and buildings across DC. The rich variety of color and texture in old bricks can set the tone for chic and inviting interior spaces. Although most homeowners focus on aesthetics, it’s important to remember that interior brick walls are structural and need to be treated with care. The brick wall visible inside the house is not only attached to, but is an integral part of, the brick wall outside because they are one and the same. Houses in Washington built before 1920 have what are known as “load bearing” walls. That means the strength of the bricks themselves hold the walls in position. These structural walls are generally three brick widths thick, with bricks laid at ninety-degree angles to ensure optimal structural integrity. They are fused together with a limebased mortar that contains fired lime, sand, and shells. Originally, brick walls inside historic houses were covered with lath—or wooden strips attached to the wall--covered with multiple layers of plaster. Over time, plaster tends to fail and crack, separating from the lath and the brick wall behind it. When plaster has reached the end of its life, this is a prime opportunity to expose the brick wall underneath. BEFORE
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A skilled craftsman tuckpoints an interior brick wall that was previously covered in plaster. These bricks have not been exposed since the 1930’s. Photos: Dr. Christina Wilson
If a brick wall is covered in plaster, it can easily be removed, but must be done carefully. The bricks underneath are soft; they have a firm exterior but tend to be spongy and crumbly inside due to age and weathering. Aggressive removal of plaster can damage the faces of bricks. Plaster removal should be done carefully by hand with small chisels. AFTER
Plaster removal is inherently messy and will generate a tremendous amount of dust. Before commencement of plaster removal, seal off the work area with plastic tarps taped to the walls, ceiling, and floor to contain dust. Place damp towels at the bottom of door and window openings to help with dust intrusion. Once plaster is removed from a brick
