How to fix gaps in brickwork?

langas18

 

Hi all! 

I’m moving into my first home this month and it’s gonna require a lot of reno and diy (so this likely won’t be my only question!). 
One of the first things I wanna jump on is the gaps in the brickwork (images attached) which are randomly around the house, and then above the front door frame. 
I just want to make sure that they’re 1) not intended to be weep holes (pretty sure they’re not, but just double checking) and then 2) what the best gap filler will be for it?

Thanks in advance! 

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @langas18. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about filling gaps.

It looks like the gaps in the brickwork are likely due to failed mortar rather than weep holes. Weep holes are typically located at the bottom of walls to allow moisture to escape and are usually spaced at regular intervals, so unless you notice more similar holes at the same height around the house, these gaps are probably just a result of mortar deterioration.

For filling the gaps in the wall, you can use fresh mortar mixed with coloured oxides to match the existing brickwork. Be sure that the mortar around the area is still sound and not deteriorating further, as it’s important to ensure the wall is structurally stable before filling. Alternatively, you can use the Mortafil caulking product.

Regarding the gap above the front door frame, this is definitely not a weep hole, as those are located at the bottom of the wall. To fill this gap, you could use an exterior-grade gap filler, but a cleaner, more aesthetic solution would be to glue a timber quad moulding over the gap. You can use a product like Liquid Nails to adhere it securely. This will give a neat finish and blend well with the surrounding brickwork.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell