Craftsmen of past generations built to last, and the brick buildings they constructed can last for centuries if they are not mistreated. Although brick masonry is one of the most durable building materials, its durability can be threatened by improper cleaning and repointing techniques and materials. Many brick surfaces have been--and currently are being--disfigured, and the rate of deterioration often accelerated, because of the lack of knowledge of proper preservation techniques for historic bricks and mortar.This field guide provides a single source of information regarding inspection of historic brick buildings; the causes of deterioration, diagnoses and treatments; appropriate materials and methods for repointing; various cleaning methods; and surface coatings (including waterproof and water-repellent coatings, paint and stucco). This manual can be used to assist persons responsible for the care of old and historic brick buildings: owners of houses or commercial buildings, administrators, architects, contractors, and anyone else who wants to maintain or sympathetically restore or rehabilitate brick buildings.While masonry work generally should only be done by professionals, this field guide will enable a building owner or administrator to understand proper preservation techniques and oversee the project to ensure that the architect or contractor is following the recommended preservation procedures. The Mississippi Department of Archives and History will use this creative project as a reference manual and as a handout to persons undertaking restoration of historic brick buildings.Historic architecture is a viable link between generations of the past and those of the present and future. Proper maintenance and restoration techniques can ensure that a historic brick building will endure for generations to come. / Department of Architecture