San Marcos Design Manual (March 16, 2021)

C

A PP E ND I X

Historic District Guidelines

Division 3: MATERIALS

Section C.2.3.1 Brick Wall Construction

A. Many of the commercial buildings in San Marcos are made of brick masonry. These brick walls are usually about a foot thick or more and carry the weight of the building. B. Brick walls are constructed by stacking single pieces together to create a pattern. Most wall patterns have a defined horizontal line. C. Brick is used to create decorative features which need to be preserved. These features are usually found around openings on a building, at the top of buildings to create a cornice, or to add to the horizontal organization of the building and block. D. It is impor tant not to damage the face of the brick by sandblasting it or by using other abrasive methods of cleaning. Clean a building gently. Star t with as solution of water and liquid Joy dishwashing detergent and a stiff brush. Chemical cleaning may be required for difficult stains but cleaning must be conducted by a knowledgeable professional. E. The material between the brick is called mor tar and is impor tant to the integrity of the wall. If the mor tar is missing, it should be replaced with mor tar of the same ingredients. Use a sand-lime recipe for mor tar which is compatible with the old brick. Modem masonry mor tar has cement as main ingredient which is too hard for historic brick. Too much cement in the recipe will accelerate the deterioration of the brick and may cause water to enter the wall. F. It is impor tant to preserve brick detailing because it adds to the character of the building.

“New” rear entrance and original entrance along Hopkins Street (202 N LBJ Dr)

Corner building with two “front” facades. (100 W Hopkins St)

Brick details in arches and cornice (102 N LBJ Dr)

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San Marcos Design Manual Amended: March 16, 2021