Exposing bricks behind plaster, a few questions

[HSV1]

I live in an apartment from the '35 and noticed that there was brick behind the plaster when I removed the baseboards. I'm now considering exposing at least one of these walls.

Anything in particular to keep in mind when doing this?
How should one proceed?
Can I be reasonably sure that the wall is covered with brick from floor to ceiling, or are there any special solutions that I'm not aware of?

 

[GoForIt]

It's not certain that the wall will be as aesthetically pleasing as one might hope, so you should be prepared to apply sheet material again..

If it's in an apartment, I would probably ask the property owner as well.

 

[HSV1]

However, I would argue that brick itself is quite forgiving. It doesn't need to be in perfect condition to look good. But there might be a risk of it looking too shabby, and then it is a bit of a concern.

Panel material = cladding?

It's about a Bfr. Is it still the association's decision?

 

[GoForIt]

I have seen similar projects where they have found, for example, bricks in different colors (they have taken what was available..)

Panel material = cladding.
Alternatively, you can plaster it anew.

It might not be the association's decision, but it might be wise to check...

 

[HSV1]

Checking in, of course, sounds sensible.

Another option could have been to paint the brick. But sanding the brick might not be particularly relevant?

 

[eviljava]

Surface layers are usually the responsibility of the apartment owner. This is typically stipulated in the association's bylaws. Read them.

However, consider the following: When the house was built, they likely did not choose the most attractive stones for this purpose (they were going to be hidden behind plaster anyway). I've also encountered cases where they mixed in regular lättbetong blocks (probably because they were left over from other parts of the construction).

If you're going to paint, it might not matter much? But not as fun if you want a natural brick wall?

You don't need to sand the brick before painting (people usually don't do this?). Just make sure to remove all loose material and use paint intended for the purpose.

 

[HSV1]

Thanks for the response. The fact that there's a risk for ugly stones/lightweight concrete blocks is something to consider. I don't know if you sand before painting; I was just thinking it might give the result a boost. If the stones are in completely worthless condition... how troublesome is it to replaster the wall? That's also something I've never done.

 

[Goteborg]

When I tore down in my previous apartment, a load-bearing brick wall was exposed. It was made of a relatively nice stone, but it was incredibly uneven and unattractive. It was a bathroom, so there was never a plan to have it visible, but still if I were you, I would have torn down a little here and there to get a sense of what it looks like behind, easier to plaster again than a whole wall.

 

[eviljava]

how troublesome is it to replaster the wall? That's also something I've never done.

Not particularly difficult, but it's a messy job. It dusts, splatters, and gets dirty everywhere. But that's the case when you tear down the plaster too.