How to fix crumbling exposed brick wall inside a cupboard?

emmaL

Hello! I'm seeking some advice on the best approach to managing an exposed brick wall inside a cupboard.

I had plans to redo the whole cupboard, and in that process discover a large empty cavity at the top of the cupboard which could be used for extra storage. I've since decided not to redo the cupboard, but now have a hole in the cupboard ceiling (leading to the cavity) that I need to address.

Ideal solution: remove the whole cupboard ceiling, deal with the exposed brick, use the space for extra storage.

The exposed brick has crumbling mortar, and the actual ceiling is a timber panel, which I assume leads to my upstairs neighbours floor. As its inside a cupboard, its not the most accessible (but not impossible). I'm not worried about aesthetics, just want to ensure that belongings are protected from dust and moisture.

Looking for a cost and time efficient option. Am I better off just replacing the original cupboard ceiling and hiding the cavity away again?

Thank you!

EricL

Hello @emmaL

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your cupboard.

It sounds like you’ve already done the hard part by investigating the space and working out what your priorities are. Looking at the condition of the brickwork in the photo, I don’t see anything that immediately suggests a serious structural issue, but the crumbling mortar will continue to create dust and debris if it’s left untreated. Since your main concern is protecting stored belongings rather than achieving a finished appearance, I think there is a very practical middle ground that gives you the extra storage without turning the project into a full renovation.

If the cavity is a useful size, I would be inclined to keep access to it rather than sealing it up again. A good approach would be to gently vacuum the area, remove any loose or flaky mortar, and patch the worst sections with a masonry repair product. A product such as https://www.bunnings.com.au/dingo-fast-set-mortar-10kg_p0760517 , which is commonly stocked through Bunnings, is designed for repairing damaged mortar joints and is straightforward for small repair jobs. Once the repairs have cured, applying a masonry sealer https://www.bunnings.com.au/crommelin-4l-water-based-brick-and-render-sealer_p0960095 can help lock down residual dust and reduce ongoing shedding from the brick surface. This should make the space much more suitable for storage while keeping costs relatively low. Proper mortar repairs are important because deteriorated joints can allow moisture ingress over time and continue to break down if left untreated.

The one thing I would check before committing to using the cavity is whether there are any signs of ongoing moisture. If the bricks remain dry throughout the year and there are no water stains, musty smells or white salt deposits appearing on the masonry, then the space should be perfectly reasonable for storing fewer sensitive items. If moisture is present, I would be more cautious about using the cavity regardless of how well the brickwork is repaired.

If, after considering it, the storage benefit is only marginal, then there is certainly nothing wrong with reinstalling a simple ceiling panel and closing the space back up. Given that you’ve already decided not to proceed with a full cupboard renovation, that would be the quickest and cheapest path forward. However, if the cavity gives you meaningful extra storage, I think a basic clean-up, some minor mortar repairs and a simple removable access panel would provide the best balance of cost, effort and long-term usefulness.

Overall, I think you’re in a fairly good position here. The brickwork appears manageable, the repairs are relatively straightforward, and with a little stabilisation work you could gain some valuable storage space without taking on a major project. Good luck with whichever direction you choose, and hopefully it turns into one of those satisfying jobs that delivers more usable space than you expected.

Let me call on our experienced members @diy_hausdesigns, @DIY4Knuckleheds and @homeinmelbourne for their recommendations.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your project.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric