In this Build It, Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough teaches Kevin O’Connor how to patch holes in a tough surface.

Project details

Skill

Cost

Estimated Time

Steps for Patching Holes in Brick

  • Find a mortar mix or compound that matches the existing brick as closely as possible (an exact match isn’t likely)
  • Using water sparingly, mix the compound or mortar mix to a thick putty-like consistency. It’s better to add small amounts of water a little at a time than trying adding material to a wet mix.
  • With a bit of the compound on a trowel, use a hex key or something similar to pack small amounts of the compound into the hole until the hole is filled to be slightly proud of the brick surface.
  • Use a trowel to flatten the compound against the brick. Press down and use a small circular motion—don’t drag the trowel across.
  • Using a damp sponge, press the sponge against the patched hole and then lift it straight off the brick to mimic the rough surface of the brick.

Shopping list

  • Mortar mix or putty
  • Dye for mortar
  • Sponge
  • Bucket

Tools

Related

How to Fill a Hole in a Brick Wall

Tools & Materials

  • Trowel
  • Jointer