Protecting Fresh Brickwork
- Dutchbricklayers
- Apr 20
- 2 min read
Recommendations based on Dutch climate conditions
Fresh brickwork is especially vulnerable to weather conditions such as rain, wind, frost, and sun during its early curing phase. Without proper protection, both aesthetic and structural issues can occur, including staining, mortar washout, or loss of adhesion. Timely and careful covering is therefore a crucial part of the bricklaying process.
Why Protection Is Necessary
During the curing process, brickwork and adhesive joints must dry under controlled conditions. Rain can wash lime or cement out of the joints, causing white stains (efflorescence). Sun and wind can lead to overly rapid drying of the mortar, resulting in weakened bonding or even cracking. Insulation materials behind the façade are also sensitive to moisture. Early protection helps prevent such damage and maintains the quality of the brickwork.
These recommendations are based on construction practices and typical weather patterns in the Netherlands.
Minimum Protection Duration
It is advised to cover fresh brickwork for a minimum of 48 hours, depending on weather conditions. In wet, cold, or extremely sunny weather, a longer protection period may be necessary. The covering should only be removed once the brickwork has cured sufficiently and is resistant to the weather, or replaced with a permanent solution.
Key Points and Protective Measures
Below is an overview of measures that contribute to effective protection of fresh brickwork and adhesive work:
Cover the work immediately at the end of each workday using foil, plastic profiles, or water-resistant materials.
Ideally use scaffolding with rainproof sheeting and overhead protection to provide shelter during ongoing work.
Install kickboards at an angle or upward to prevent splashing water.
Avoid using frozen or water-saturated bricks and mortar, as they can compromise adhesion.
Do not work at sub-zero temperatures unless additional frost protection measures are in place.
Prevent cement water from running over the façade surface to avoid staining.
Ensure insulation materials behind the façade remain dry by covering them in time.
In warm or windy weather, lightly mist the brickwork to prevent rapid drying.
Use firmly secured covers or profiles, especially for high façades or windy locations.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all materials, including temperature and humidity guidelines for application and curing.
Finish jointing work according to the relevant guidelines—doing this too early or too late may cause bonding issues or color variation.
Provide extra protection for fresh joints during heavy rain to avoid washout.
Avoid using excessively wet or completely dry bricks, as they affect the moisture balance of the mortar.
Summary
Proper protection of fresh brickwork is essential to avoid both technical and visual problems. By covering the brickwork for at least 48 hours—and longer in unfavorable weather—the quality is preserved, and the need for repairs can be minimized. A good start is not just half the battle, but in this case, the key to a durable and high-quality result.


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