Masonry units that are structurally damaged should
be replaced so they don’t draw moisture and accelerate decay and instability.
Rebuilding damaged masonry units is sometimes necessary if brick/block/stone or mortar is structurally unsound due to decay or poor construction.
A good masonry water repellant treatment is a chemical application that soaks into masonry and closes the natural pores down small enough to prevent water molecules from penetrating the outside while remaining breathable so humid vapors can escape.