An exposed brick wall adds warmth and history to a Philadelphia rowhome. Behind many old plaster walls, the original brick is waiting to be uncovered.
We have opened brick walls in Queen Village, Fairmount and Trinity homes across the city. Each wall is different, so we test before committing.
This guide explains how to reveal brick the right way and keep it looking good.
Is Your Wall a Good Candidate for Exposed Brick?
Not every wall was meant to be seen. Therefore, we open a test patch first.
- Brick quality. Face brick looks better than rough common brick.
- Mortar condition. Soft joints may need repointing.
- Moisture. Damp walls need repairs before exposure.
- Wiring and pipes. Services may need rerouting.
How We Uncover and Restore an Exposed Brick Wall
The process is dusty, so we protect the home carefully.
- Sealing off the room and covering floors.
- Removing plaster by hand and with careful tools.
- Cleaning the brick without harsh acid.
- Repointing joints with lime-based mortar.
- Applying a breathable dust sealer.
The National Park Service Preservation Brief on repointing explains why soft lime mortar protects historic brick.
Exposed Brick or Keep the Plaster?
Exposing brick works well when:
- Brick and mortar are in good condition.
- The wall stays dry year-round.
- You want a historic look.
Keeping plaster may be better when:
- The wall is an exterior wall with heat loss concerns.
- Brick is badly damaged.
- Sound control is a priority.
Caring for Your Brick Wall
- Dust with a soft brush.
- Avoid harsh cleaners.
- Watch for new dampness.
- Reapply sealer when dusting increases.
Simple care keeps the wall attractive for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does exposed brick make a room colder? Exterior walls can feel cooler. Interior party walls usually do not.
Why use lime mortar? Lime is softer than old brick, which protects the brick from damage.
Is the work messy? Yes, but we contain dust with plastic barriers and air filtration.
How long does it take? Most single walls take one to two weeks.
Reveal an Exposed Brick Wall in Your Home
PHS General Contractor restores historic details in Philadelphia homes. Explore our general contracting services, browse the projects gallery, or contact us for an estimate.
