When it comes to adding some natural vegetative beauty to your building, few things can compete with the charm of ivy climbing up a masonry wall. Just ask any Chicago Cubs fan when the Boston ivy finally grows each spring at Wrigley Field! The lush green leaves, delicate tendrils, and enchanting vines can transform an ordinary wall into a natural vegetated exhibition, especially if it’s the accent wall on your perfect garden oasis. However, as captivating as it may seem, there are several reasons why ivy growing on your masonry wall is actually detrimental to brick wall preservation.
The Impact of Ivy on Mortar Joints
One of the main reasons why ivy is not good for masonry walls, is that the growth and extensions of the invasive tendrils can cause damage to the mortar joints, which is the bonding agent for brick and concrete masonry units. The mortar bond is essential for structural integrity and strength. As ivy spreads its roots and tendrils, it gradually works its way into the small cracks and crevices in your wall’s structure. Over time, this can weaken the mortar, compromising the stability and integrity of the entire wall. What may initially seem like a harmless natural and aesthetically pleasing growth can eventually lead to costly masonry restoration and potential safety hazards.
The dense growth of ivy provides shelter and nesting opportunities for various critters, including insects, spiders, and rodents. These pests can find their way into your building through small openings in the weakened mortar joints, leading to potential infestations.
Furthermore, the moisture trapped by the ivy against your wall can create water infiltration issues. The lack of proper airflow and sunlight due to the ivy’s coverage can create a damp environment that is conducive to leaks. Not only does this affect the aesthetic appeal of your wall, but it also poses health risks to building occupants if left unchecked.
One might make the case that ivy can be easily maintained and controlled. While it is true that regular pruning can prevent ivy from running wild, it is important to understand that this plant has a persistent nature. Ivy has an uncanny ability to grow rapidly and cling onto almost any surface, including masonry. Its small, adhesive roots penetrate the smallest crevices, making it difficult to completely remove without causing further damage. Professional ivy removal services are often necessary to prevent additional structural issues.
Alternative Options to Ivy for Vertical Garden Solutions
If you are a fan of the lush, green look that ivy provides, there are alternative ways to achieve vertical greenery without jeopardizing the integrity of your masonry wall, though as a building envelope professional, we don’t necessarily recommend these for large scale buildings.
Consider installing a trellis or a wire mesh adjacent to the wall (at least 24″ away, or further if suspended scaffold access will be required in the future), allowing climbing plants such as jasmine or clematis to spread. These ivy alternatives provide a beautiful aesthetic while avoiding the harsh impact on your masonry; it is also easier to cut back should they bridge the gap between the trellis and the wall. Another possible option is to consider climbing roses, which are aesthetically pleasing.
The Costly Repairs Associated with Ivy Damage
One of the most compelling reasons to steer clear of ivy on your masonry wall is the maintenance and associated repair costs. Re-pointing, which involves removing and replacing deteriorated mortar, is a labor-intensive task that requires professional expertise. The longer ivy remains on your wall, the more severe the damage becomes, leading to higher repair costs.
Furthermore, the removal of ivy from a masonry wall is labor intensive. The tendrils and roots can cling stubbornly to the surface, and attempting to remove them hastily can result in further damage to the brick and mortar. The financial burden of repairing ivy damage may far outweigh the aesthetics of a green wall. By choosing alternative options and landscape choices that are more compatible with masonry, there are options to create a garden type wall without compromising the structural integrity.
